Tanzania: Day 4 — Kwembe

From Tanzania Album 4

Having supported SCAW as a donor for 15 years, I have always believed in its integrity as an orgnization. Now, as I experience firsthand a bedkit distribution here in Tanzania I am even more convinced that Sleeping Children is a working miracle. We have just completed Day 4, and each day has brought me face to face with a different side of poverty.

Today we traveled further into the countryside, to an elementary school in Kwembe, negotiating roads that would barely qualify as walking trails back home.

When we finally arrived at the top of the hill where the small school perched we were greeted by hundreds of children waiting patiently. Off to the sides sat the groups of mothers with their babies, clear evidence that for them the distribution is quite a social event. I spent some time “talking” to these mothers, using my camera as a way to break the ice. They, like the children, were curious to see their picture in the digital camera, giggling and teasing each other, proof positive that human nature transcends race.

From Tanzania Album 4

The Kwembe school seemed a bit poorer than those we’ve visited already (if that’s possible), and the children were more quiet and reserved. But the shy smiles we received were just as heartwarming.

After we finished the distribution we followed Mama Wendoa to her home back in the city where she operates the Upendo Aids Center. She proudly showed us around, and it was wonderful to see what the amazing woman has accomplished. Her smile, like the smiles of the children, will stay in my heart for many years to come.

Maureen Maus for the SCAW 2007 Tanzania travelling team.

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