Today is March 2nd and my son Rob turns 31! I have always believed that his creation was the best thing I could contribute to the world. I tried to reach him on Skype at the CNFA office but only was able to sing to his voice mail box.
Angola – just the word conjures up images of fighting, destruction and lawlessness. This has not been my experience. I am in Huambo which is south of Luanda. It is a beautiful small city with large plazas and fountains. I am staying in Nova Estella Hotel. The décor is early Las Vegas with chandeliers, statues and fountains everywhere. My room had several areas needed correction (no working light bulbs) but it is now comfortable. The assistant manager has been extremely gracious including converting one of the hotel’s TV channels to CNN. I was saddened by all of the pictures of earthquake in Chile.
The interim CNFA Country Director is Nelson Jacob. He is a delightful man who is running the program until a permanent local replacement can be hired. His staff includes Victoria (office manager) and 2 program directors. I am working with Luciano who also serves as my translator. He is excellent!
The cooperative that I have worked with since arriving is only 2+ years old. However, it was granted a very large bank loan which purchased fertilizer, tractors, trucks, grinding machines and equipment for a sawmill. The loan had a 1 year grace period. My work with them has been training in accounting and financial management. I only had 3 ½ days as I leave on Thursday am for another city and another cooperative. It is my understanding that I will encounter the same issues: underdeveloped project planning and financial management skills. This is not disrespectful to the farmers – just not the competencies that have made them successful in the past.
Internet is very very spotty here. To answer the question, no my luggage has not shown up. I am wearing the same clothes which are hand washed every night. The experience teaches me again how little is necessary.
Angola – just the word conjures up images of fighting, destruction and lawlessness. This has not been my experience. I am in Huambo which is south of Luanda. It is a beautiful small city with large plazas and fountains. I am staying in Nova Estella Hotel. The décor is early Las Vegas with chandeliers, statues and fountains everywhere. My room had several areas needed correction (no working light bulbs) but it is now comfortable. The assistant manager has been extremely gracious including converting one of the hotel’s TV channels to CNN. I was saddened by all of the pictures of earthquake in Chile.
The interim CNFA Country Director is Nelson Jacob. He is a delightful man who is running the program until a permanent local replacement can be hired. His staff includes Victoria (office manager) and 2 program directors. I am working with Luciano who also serves as my translator. He is excellent!
The cooperative that I have worked with since arriving is only 2+ years old. However, it was granted a very large bank loan which purchased fertilizer, tractors, trucks, grinding machines and equipment for a sawmill. The loan had a 1 year grace period. My work with them has been training in accounting and financial management. I only had 3 ½ days as I leave on Thursday am for another city and another cooperative. It is my understanding that I will encounter the same issues: underdeveloped project planning and financial management skills. This is not disrespectful to the farmers – just not the competencies that have made them successful in the past.
Internet is very very spotty here. To answer the question, no my luggage has not shown up. I am wearing the same clothes which are hand washed every night. The experience teaches me again how little is necessary.
Bummer re: flight/luggage snafus. Good thing you are low maintenance...and have a great sense of humor. Otherwise, sounds like you're having amazing adventure...and providing very necessary guidance. Thinking of you! Hugs, Pam
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