Every morning I wake up and stagger outside to buy the newspaper. Saturday’s paper is quite fun and has a section in it called “Krazy Kampala”. It is one page devoted to strange and interesting stories from all around the world. It’s funny and I have a nice chuckle reading them…
Now, I want to write a few funny things that I have noticed here in Uganda…
1) Uganda animals HAVE to be some of the smartest in the WORLD!! I am not even joking…driving here in Kampala is truly an art. When you walk on the street you have to be extremely alert for motorcycles, taxi’s that dodge in and out of traffic to pick up passengers, bicycles, etc…Anyway, goats, dogs, cows, and even chickens look both ways before crossing the road and they continue evaluating the road situation until they are on the other side… believe me or not…but I have seen it with my very own eyes. It’s amazing…
2) Maybe this is not as “interesting” to some of you, but I find it very startling… Ugandan eggs have very pale yellow yolks…I cracked open an egg to make an omelet the other day and the yolk was very very pale… Do we have different breed of chickens in Canada? (I guess Dad can teach me on this one!)
3) The little children here are so darling and unlike their parents have not seen as many Muzungu, so for those children who get close to me I am certainly a novelty! I would love to ask a child (and I will) what they think of my white skin. If I child gets close and is brave they try to touch my arm. I think perhaps they think I am painted or something…I wonder if they think they can take my white off!! When I see a curious child I bend down to their level and offer them my hand. Some children will be indecisive and others will hold my hand without hesitation. It is very cute…
(**THIS IS ONLY CUTE WHEN IT’S A CHILD OR A LADY….)
Oh and I need to rub something in…Josh (for you newcomers! Josh is my husband ) has been out in the field training and told me that one night they had to sleep without tents and they woke up with frost on them…(poor baby)…As it is approaching fall in Canada, the weather is getting colder and colder with each passing day. WELL…here in Kampala, we have a nice consistent and comfortable (give or take) 75 degrees each day…warmer mid day and cooler at night…ahhhhh perfection…
Jenny will be nice and content with her GREEN CHRISTMAS!
Friday, September 21, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
More Progress
So, I have to admit that the other day when I looked at the calendar and realized that a month had passed already, I couldn’t believe it.
Let’s recap…in one month I have flown over 12,684 Km, eaten about 8 different kinds of bananas, had my accent mocked and made fun of by a senior professor, learned how to calculate percentage in my Master’s program! had a bacterial infection in my stomach, had a bug lay eggs in my toe, undergone minor surgery to remove the nasty disgusting thing, kneeled when greeting a elder, been cheated out of, god only knows, how much money, shaved hours off my life by riding on motorcycle taxis, realized that Africa is much more modern than anticipated, that being called Mommy, Mamma, or Mom is not rude, rather its respectable, that when they say it’s the rainy season that it rains-EVERYDAY!, that Ugandans are very very proud of their football team, that is possible to carry 25 chickens on a boda-boda (motorcycle), that I can say “Hello, I am fine, how are you?” about 1million times per day, when someone says they will meet you at 9am expect them to show up at around noon, that is OK for a teacher to stop mid-sentence to answer their cell phone, and COLD SHOWERS ARE NOT FUN.
I am slowly getting adjusted to Uganda…but I am getting myself more and more busy! (Jenny style!)
This past week I attended, Part one of three, of a training called “Alternatives to Violence”. It was very interesting and actually it was started by Quakers in a New York prison. I will take the part in the other two trainings in the next few months and then I will receive a certificate to train others.
I also spent more time with my advisor and I love this man! He is so soft spoken and gentle. I can spend 30 minutes with him and talk about my ideas and I can make more headway in that 30 minutes than I can in 3 weeks of class. I tell him an idea that I have and he helps me think of ways to make my ideas reality. As I wrote in my blog last week, I have my idea for my thesis, but I didn’t know where exactly I could go with it. I sat with my advisor and I said to him “this is going to sound silly, but I am not sure where to go with my thesis topic. I mean that I don’t know what to do…at the end of my research am I answering a question?” After discussing for a bit I was getting a little more confused, but I don’t feel scared to ask for help with Dr. Deu, so I said “but Dr. what happens after I spend close to two years researching this topic and I don’t find anything?’ and he smiled and sat back in his chair “now then you see, you have a hypothesis!”
My hypothesis is that there must be common denominator that links conflicts in context of ethnicity and racism.
My advisor is off to the U.K. for his sabbatical and has told me that I need to read and read and read in the next three months. Perhaps that is easier said then done…I hope I can find a decent library. I am going to explore the conflicts in Bosnia, Iraq, Rwanda, and Northern Uganda. Then, next year, I am going to move to the North of Uganda near the Congo/Sudan border to do my field research.
I am excited that in the beginning of this program, I already, have a very supportive advisor and a thesis topic/hypothesis. I am scared at the same time because I have no idea how to write this type of paper…like is there a rule?
I am realizing already that this masters program is something that I am going to have to “learn myself!” I am going to have to go and find the materials and do the research…the class work is not something that is going to get me far. It is nice to have some place to go every night, but quite frankly does it really take 3 weeks to learn about “what conflicts are based on” OR even better…if 30 women were interviewed and 12 responded NO to a given question, how would we calculate the percentage? OMG. I would love to go and see my teachers and tell them that I am going to the field to research, but I feel they might think that I am “too good for the class” or something like that… The reason that I chose Uganda was that because there was coursework component. I didn’t want to have to teach myself…
I am thinking of you all at home and wonder how everyone is doing…please e-mail me if you have time…I enjoy the stories…and some of you might have to sit down for this one, but, I guess my age is catching up with me a little…I can’t believe I am going to be 26 years old next week…I am starting to get jealous when I see all the ladies with big round bellies…I think next year I am going to have to stay home for a while…sit still and hang up the gypsy cape…for a while anyway☺
Let’s recap…in one month I have flown over 12,684 Km, eaten about 8 different kinds of bananas, had my accent mocked and made fun of by a senior professor, learned how to calculate percentage in my Master’s program! had a bacterial infection in my stomach, had a bug lay eggs in my toe, undergone minor surgery to remove the nasty disgusting thing, kneeled when greeting a elder, been cheated out of, god only knows, how much money, shaved hours off my life by riding on motorcycle taxis, realized that Africa is much more modern than anticipated, that being called Mommy, Mamma, or Mom is not rude, rather its respectable, that when they say it’s the rainy season that it rains-EVERYDAY!, that Ugandans are very very proud of their football team, that is possible to carry 25 chickens on a boda-boda (motorcycle), that I can say “Hello, I am fine, how are you?” about 1million times per day, when someone says they will meet you at 9am expect them to show up at around noon, that is OK for a teacher to stop mid-sentence to answer their cell phone, and COLD SHOWERS ARE NOT FUN.
I am slowly getting adjusted to Uganda…but I am getting myself more and more busy! (Jenny style!)
This past week I attended, Part one of three, of a training called “Alternatives to Violence”. It was very interesting and actually it was started by Quakers in a New York prison. I will take the part in the other two trainings in the next few months and then I will receive a certificate to train others.
I also spent more time with my advisor and I love this man! He is so soft spoken and gentle. I can spend 30 minutes with him and talk about my ideas and I can make more headway in that 30 minutes than I can in 3 weeks of class. I tell him an idea that I have and he helps me think of ways to make my ideas reality. As I wrote in my blog last week, I have my idea for my thesis, but I didn’t know where exactly I could go with it. I sat with my advisor and I said to him “this is going to sound silly, but I am not sure where to go with my thesis topic. I mean that I don’t know what to do…at the end of my research am I answering a question?” After discussing for a bit I was getting a little more confused, but I don’t feel scared to ask for help with Dr. Deu, so I said “but Dr. what happens after I spend close to two years researching this topic and I don’t find anything?’ and he smiled and sat back in his chair “now then you see, you have a hypothesis!”
My hypothesis is that there must be common denominator that links conflicts in context of ethnicity and racism.
My advisor is off to the U.K. for his sabbatical and has told me that I need to read and read and read in the next three months. Perhaps that is easier said then done…I hope I can find a decent library. I am going to explore the conflicts in Bosnia, Iraq, Rwanda, and Northern Uganda. Then, next year, I am going to move to the North of Uganda near the Congo/Sudan border to do my field research.
I am excited that in the beginning of this program, I already, have a very supportive advisor and a thesis topic/hypothesis. I am scared at the same time because I have no idea how to write this type of paper…like is there a rule?
I am realizing already that this masters program is something that I am going to have to “learn myself!” I am going to have to go and find the materials and do the research…the class work is not something that is going to get me far. It is nice to have some place to go every night, but quite frankly does it really take 3 weeks to learn about “what conflicts are based on” OR even better…if 30 women were interviewed and 12 responded NO to a given question, how would we calculate the percentage? OMG. I would love to go and see my teachers and tell them that I am going to the field to research, but I feel they might think that I am “too good for the class” or something like that… The reason that I chose Uganda was that because there was coursework component. I didn’t want to have to teach myself…
I am thinking of you all at home and wonder how everyone is doing…please e-mail me if you have time…I enjoy the stories…and some of you might have to sit down for this one, but, I guess my age is catching up with me a little…I can’t believe I am going to be 26 years old next week…I am starting to get jealous when I see all the ladies with big round bellies…I think next year I am going to have to stay home for a while…sit still and hang up the gypsy cape…for a while anyway☺
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Celebrate with me!
OK OK OK!
Jenny has her Thesis topic...oh yeah oh yeah! Jenny has her thesis topic...oh yeah oh yeah!!!
I am going to analyze the concept of racism and ethnicity and the factors that lead to conflict. My thesis advisor and I talked about it today and he suggested I get reading and started on this now, so I can relieve my boredom!
He also agreed with me that because I am Canadian and will be looking for work in Canada that I need to make this thesis international and not just focus on Uganda. With that said I am going to research and study a tribe that is looked down upon here in Uganda and I will study and research native Indians in Canada.
I have much work ahead of me and lots of reading and research. I am happy now because my mind will be occupied.
I will keep you updated about my hypothesis and findings...but at least now I have a TOPIC!
AND!!!! Today is my ONE month Anniversary in Uganda...
Miss you allllllllllllllll......
Jenny has her Thesis topic...oh yeah oh yeah! Jenny has her thesis topic...oh yeah oh yeah!!!
I am going to analyze the concept of racism and ethnicity and the factors that lead to conflict. My thesis advisor and I talked about it today and he suggested I get reading and started on this now, so I can relieve my boredom!
He also agreed with me that because I am Canadian and will be looking for work in Canada that I need to make this thesis international and not just focus on Uganda. With that said I am going to research and study a tribe that is looked down upon here in Uganda and I will study and research native Indians in Canada.
I have much work ahead of me and lots of reading and research. I am happy now because my mind will be occupied.
I will keep you updated about my hypothesis and findings...but at least now I have a TOPIC!
AND!!!! Today is my ONE month Anniversary in Uganda...
Miss you allllllllllllllll......
Monday, September 10, 2007
I'm in my new apartment...
Hi Everyone.
Well on Saturday evening I moved into my African apartment. It feels like this journey has now begun. My apartment is so empty…I have spent so much money already and there is nothing really to show for it. I am very surprised how Rotary International expects those of us who relocate to developing countries. I have purchased some dishes, a toaster oven, an electric kettle, and a slow cooker. I do not have a refrigerator, nor do I have hot water. I am living on a monthly allowance and Rotary does not allow for “furniture” allowance. I feel a little bothered by this because those of us who have chose developing countries are not treated the same by Rotary International as those who have taken the “safer” route by relocating to developing countries. There isn’t any doubt that those scholars who have moved to England, Canada, U.S.A., Australia, etc…have any problem cooking food or taking a warm shower.
In Uganda they do now have enough electric power to supply the whole country (or perhaps its only Kampala-and not enough supply for the capital), so they cut everyone’s power off for a few hours a day. I can deal with that…but apparently the costs of electricity are expensive…so I am scared to boil water for my tea in fear that my bill at the end of the month is enormous. Because Rotary International only gives us our money in portions I have nearly exhausted my allowance (rent, tuition, board, etc…) and it’s only the middle of September and I still do not even have a stovetop to cook food on. I know this might sound like complaining, but the other two Rotary Scholars that are here with me are both having problems also. We all feel that an “Ambassadorial Scholar-regardless of the country we chose, should be treated the same and have access to the same funds. I do believe that a MAJOR problem is the misconception or belief that Africa is cheap…BELIEVE ME…IT IS NOT.
I do not need to live in 5 star facilities…but being able to cook myself dinner and wash the 2 pounds of dirt that accumulate on my skin while walking outside WITH WARM/HOT water, is in my opinion, necessary.
Well on Saturday evening I moved into my African apartment. It feels like this journey has now begun. My apartment is so empty…I have spent so much money already and there is nothing really to show for it. I am very surprised how Rotary International expects those of us who relocate to developing countries. I have purchased some dishes, a toaster oven, an electric kettle, and a slow cooker. I do not have a refrigerator, nor do I have hot water. I am living on a monthly allowance and Rotary does not allow for “furniture” allowance. I feel a little bothered by this because those of us who have chose developing countries are not treated the same by Rotary International as those who have taken the “safer” route by relocating to developing countries. There isn’t any doubt that those scholars who have moved to England, Canada, U.S.A., Australia, etc…have any problem cooking food or taking a warm shower.
In Uganda they do now have enough electric power to supply the whole country (or perhaps its only Kampala-and not enough supply for the capital), so they cut everyone’s power off for a few hours a day. I can deal with that…but apparently the costs of electricity are expensive…so I am scared to boil water for my tea in fear that my bill at the end of the month is enormous. Because Rotary International only gives us our money in portions I have nearly exhausted my allowance (rent, tuition, board, etc…) and it’s only the middle of September and I still do not even have a stovetop to cook food on. I know this might sound like complaining, but the other two Rotary Scholars that are here with me are both having problems also. We all feel that an “Ambassadorial Scholar-regardless of the country we chose, should be treated the same and have access to the same funds. I do believe that a MAJOR problem is the misconception or belief that Africa is cheap…BELIEVE ME…IT IS NOT.
I do not need to live in 5 star facilities…but being able to cook myself dinner and wash the 2 pounds of dirt that accumulate on my skin while walking outside WITH WARM/HOT water, is in my opinion, necessary.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Hello 7850...
Hello Rotarians!
I have been posting blogs about culture and life in Africa, but I would like to speak more specifically about Rotary this time.
Since I arrived a few weeks ago I have attended several meetings (or as they are called in Uganda; fellowships) I attended three Rotary and one Rotaract meeting, an induction ceremony for five new Rotarians, a membership training seminar, and a thank-you cocktail for a group of Indian Doctors that volunteered in the North of Uganda at a one week health clinic.
Logistics:
Uganda is part of district 9200, which includes Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Eritrea. The capital of Uganda is called Kampala. In the capital city there is a population of around one million, which includes 25 Rotary clubs with 532 Rotarians.
The entire district has 108 clubs with a total of 3065 members!
From what I have experienced so far Ugandan Rotarians are passionate about Rotary and the recruitment of new members. There have been numerous times already in my stay here that recruitment is pushed; guest speakers at meetings, short announcements at meetings, and half day seminar (open to all clubs).
Each Rotary clubs in Kampala has numerous activities organized. The club that hosts me, Rotary club of Kampala North, has organized a health clinic in Gulu (a city that is home to many international relief organizations, internally displaced people and refugees from the conflict areas on the borders of the Congo and Sudan). Nine surgeons (gynecologist, urologist, general surgeon, plastic surgeon, optometrists) have arrived from India, teamed with 120+ local health workers with provide free health care to the people living in IDP camps (camps for internally displaced people). A blood donation clinic was held a week before and 135 units of blood were also donated to the effort. NOW! My host “Tusu” shares a lot in common with Dr. Pomerleau and watches out for me!! The health camp started the same day as my classes, so I didn’t attend. It wouldn’t be a good idea to get behind the first week.
Meetings:
From what I have seen so far, a meeting begins with the introduction of visiting members and guests. Guests are numerous and this process takes a bit of time! Next, we move onto announcements and then the guest speaker. From the meetings I have attended the members drink tea, coffee, or a soda, but there are no meals. AND…. the sergeant of arms wears a very interesting looking hat!
I hope all is going well and there will be more updates as I get more settled here.
I have been posting blogs about culture and life in Africa, but I would like to speak more specifically about Rotary this time.
Since I arrived a few weeks ago I have attended several meetings (or as they are called in Uganda; fellowships) I attended three Rotary and one Rotaract meeting, an induction ceremony for five new Rotarians, a membership training seminar, and a thank-you cocktail for a group of Indian Doctors that volunteered in the North of Uganda at a one week health clinic.
Logistics:
Uganda is part of district 9200, which includes Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Eritrea. The capital of Uganda is called Kampala. In the capital city there is a population of around one million, which includes 25 Rotary clubs with 532 Rotarians.
The entire district has 108 clubs with a total of 3065 members!
From what I have experienced so far Ugandan Rotarians are passionate about Rotary and the recruitment of new members. There have been numerous times already in my stay here that recruitment is pushed; guest speakers at meetings, short announcements at meetings, and half day seminar (open to all clubs).
Each Rotary clubs in Kampala has numerous activities organized. The club that hosts me, Rotary club of Kampala North, has organized a health clinic in Gulu (a city that is home to many international relief organizations, internally displaced people and refugees from the conflict areas on the borders of the Congo and Sudan). Nine surgeons (gynecologist, urologist, general surgeon, plastic surgeon, optometrists) have arrived from India, teamed with 120+ local health workers with provide free health care to the people living in IDP camps (camps for internally displaced people). A blood donation clinic was held a week before and 135 units of blood were also donated to the effort. NOW! My host “Tusu” shares a lot in common with Dr. Pomerleau and watches out for me!! The health camp started the same day as my classes, so I didn’t attend. It wouldn’t be a good idea to get behind the first week.
Meetings:
From what I have seen so far, a meeting begins with the introduction of visiting members and guests. Guests are numerous and this process takes a bit of time! Next, we move onto announcements and then the guest speaker. From the meetings I have attended the members drink tea, coffee, or a soda, but there are no meals. AND…. the sergeant of arms wears a very interesting looking hat!
I hope all is going well and there will be more updates as I get more settled here.
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