Beginnings, Dar Es Salaam

Mambo! (Hello!),

Two weeks have passed since landing in Dar Es Salaam, and while nothing notable pertaining to the research, interviews, or “real” work has begun, I have nonetheless been keeping myself more than busy. Let’s just briefly dive into some highlights of the past two weeks living in Tanzania:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

1.) After Two days of Airports, Arrived in Tanzania on Friday, August 13th. Within 3 hours I had already found myself lugging an oversized shoe rack for the house on overcrowded dala-dalas (mini buses) through the city. Reality check (welcome back to life in the third world, Jonathan).

2.) Visited the HOCET Secondary School in Mkuranga District, and met the children who I will be helping support through my work with Kujali International over the next year. While there is much work to be done, the school is running great and the kids are just amazing. Looking forward to spending time getting to know them better.

3.) Summited Mount Kilimanjaro with Team Kujali. Absolutely breathtaking views, and both a mental and physical challenge I will never forget. Summit day was a brutal 12 hour climb of 8,000 vertical feet round trip, starting at midnight. 10 out of the 11 climbers made it to the summit!

4.) Ventured out to Kariakoo market to purchase a motorcycle, frying pan, and toilet seat. So far, only one of the three has completely broken. Not bad odds, but looks like duct tape will be our best friend over the next year…

In short, after just a few weeks I have a feeling I’ll be fitting in just fine here. It reminds me much of my experience living in India, with similar noise, traffic, pollution, and general daily hazards (speeding buses) and inconveniences (concept of time?), yet the laid back attitude of the Tanzanians and the close access to the beach makes the city much more liveable and enjoyable.

Keep posted- more to come next week!

Badai…

J

Share This!