i am so close to gombe national park!!! it drives me crazy that i'm only in the region of kigoma for 3 days only, 1 whole day of which is devoted to the 4 hour drive from kigoma city to kasulu (where the hospital is). people keep telling me how amazing gombe is (jane goodall's chimpanzee research mecca) and how easy and great it would be for me to visit if i only had an extra day or two. i guess that means it's just a great reason for me to come back and stay a little longer next time.
i was able to meet up with two other grad student researchers here. molly is with me at UM (the redhead in the picture) and anna (so much confusion in explaining the two an(n)a's to people) is from BU. i get to speak english at my normal speed, AND anna is quite fluent in swahili. jackpot!
kigoma region is gorgeous. lush green foliage, deep red soil, mountains....it's breathtaking, and my photos don't do the area justice. there are a couple of refugee camps nearby because of the turmoil in burundi (which is very close to where i am right now) and UNHCR has a strong presence here. my brother keeps fretting about it (don't worry!). it actually feels quite peaceful here, and the officials at the hospital told me the rebels have been inactive for some time now, and some of the refugees are starting to go back. let's hope they are able to return to their lands peacefully.
i won't have internet access for the next two to three days. i head to mozambique on saturday, so hopefully i will update then. thanks for all the wonderful comments and positive feedback, all, i'll keep the posts coming!
PS--sarah and kyle (and all you other foodies), i am working on my techniques for snapping 007 photos of my food plates, or at the very least, of markets and food vendor stalls. i got yelled at once already for the camera so i am trying to be careful, but rest assured, i'm taking mental notes!
3 comments:
Glad to hear you are safe and continuing to enjoy your "safari" of hospitals. It's unfortunate that you don't have time to visit Gombe, but you can at least say you were close. We wish you continued safe travels and will check on your newest adventures when you get to Mozambique!
Love ya, Bob & Brenda
I love to hear your updates Ana! Thanks so much for sharing and take care. I'm glad the rebels are laying low. ~ Melissa
Hi Ana! I forgot to mention that if you haven't already, you should read the "Ladies Number 1 Detective Agency" series by Alexander MCall Smith. They are short quick reads and really reflect the feel of Africa (they take place in Botswana). I have most of them which you can borrow when you get back if you like. Happy travels! Love, Kelly
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