October 2012: "Dawbies in Africa"

Since arriving here in Namibia we have been told that this country, and in particular this capital city of Windhoek, is “Africa for Beginners”. We have been introduced to the wonders and challenges of living in Africa in a very gentle manner.

The old & the new in Windhoek

Two mornings a week we continue to work at the Pre-Primary School in a disadvantaged community near where we live.  When we walk in the door we get mobbed by 20 pre-school children who run up & give us a big hug whilst calling out “teacher, teacher, teacher”!

Two mornings a week we continue to work at the Pre-Primary School in a disadvantaged community near where we live.  When we walk in the door we get mobbed by 20 pre-school children who run up & give us a big hug whilst calling out “teacher, teacher, teacher”!

When you know the name of someone or something communication is established and connections are made. Those of you who are teachers will also know that knowing the names of the children in your class is an important part of establishing discipline and order, as well as relationship. At the After School program one of our biggest challenges has been learning the names of the children in our group.

One morning a week we have the privilege of working with FHS (www.familyofhopeservices.org).  This NGO is located in the poorest part of the city in what is called the “informal settlements” of Hakahana  & Havana. Approximately 100,000 people live in these informal settlements & squatter camps. FHS has a motto “Restoring Hope, Empowering Families”.

Hard to believe we are now halfway through our time in Namibia.

The After School Program remains our largest project where every afternoon (Monday to Thursday) at 2:00 pm, around 100 children & youth descend upon the church to commence a three hour program. This program has now been running for eight years & is a testimony to the hard work & dedication of the young adults of the church (mainly tertiary students) who volunteer their time to serve their community.

The other day whilst travelling in a taxi I overheard an advertisement for foot powder which I thought was a rather luxurious item to be promoting as something normal and necessary.

Whilst we were very blessed to visit Etosha, some things did make us stop & think.

What do a medical student from Finland, an archaeologist from Denmark, an Ethiopian tour guide, a German lawyer and art auction-house worker, a UN envoy from Canada, a Chinese middle-aged mum, an Australian teacher and two Australian mission workers (us) have in common? A three day camping safari to Etosha National Park, that’s what.

On a weekly basis we are attending a Bible Study & Prayer Meeting at our church.

Bible studies are held in a number of different locations throughout Katutura & beyond. Our group meets at the church & we usually have around 15 to 20 attending. It’s a wonderful thing to be part of a small group who take delight in gathering around God’s word on a regular basis.