Category Archives: Uncategorized

John’s been telling me off because I am so late with this one. My sincere apologies, Asche auf mein Haupt, je suis désolée, pole sana! So, finally: Some reflections on our fantastic visit to Pemba-  yes, it does seem ages … Continue reading →

The furniture arrives. Plus neighbour, plus two cheeky little buggers who are always trying to get into the house and at our secret stash of balloons. We’ve told them only those who can count to ten and back get a … Continue reading →

So much going on we need to play catch-up: I travelled to Nairobi with the Head of Human Resources from the Ministry last month, for a flying visit (less than 24 hours). We went to meet representatives from AMREF, a … Continue reading →

What’s all the commotion? Work stops on campus. Students and teachers gathering around the reception area. An accident? The Minister of Health paying a surprise visit? The cows are fighting again? No, Ali is peeling and dicing a jackfruit. We … Continue reading →

Things you should know about. Sit up. Pay attention. Below is a picture of what your welcome mat comes from, what you dip into hot water to make your tea (no, no, not tea, the teabags), the stuffing in your … Continue reading →

At popular request (OK, my mate Steve in Berlin asked) ‘A Day In The Life Of … Me (A Day In The Life Of … Nadine, is part two). Generally I get woken up at 5.15 (no half measures Steve. … Continue reading →

Okay, enough of beaches and motorbike pirouettes and wriggly worms for now. We haven’t really written about what we are here to do as VSO volunteers. So here’s the confession: Yes, we are working here. Quite a lot actually! I … Continue reading →

Life adjustment no 4. – Having to iron every piece of clothing after you’ve washed and hung it out to dry. No, Tanzanians don’t have a crease fetish. You methodically iron your clothes because of tumble fly. Tumble flies like … Continue reading →

Just back from a two week sojourn in Dar Es Salaam. One week work stuff another week doing motorbike training. Having seen Dar Es Salaam traffic and the size of the motorbike we’re supposed to ride we were slightly apprehensive. … Continue reading →

  John and Nadine receive a call from Mr Tiru. Mr Tiru is processing their flight tickets for a business trip to one of the islands. John’s mobile: Bringg Bringggg John: ‘Hello’ Mr Tiru (shouting): (Something in Swahili).. Tiru.. (Something … Continue reading →