There's no place like home

It was Malcolm’s last week in Tanzania and then it was time for him to return home.

The week started with the baptism of 4 children and an adult who attend the Sunday Fellowship meeting at SAFI’s workshop. We were pleased to be offered the use of a private swimming pool for the ceremony, and the presence of Katy’s father, John, a retired vicar to officiate.

 

 Two of those who were baptised were Ben and Katy’s children, Zak and Alessia, with the youngest daughter, Julia, being blessed.

 Last week Malcolm mentioned the problem of potholes on the local dirt roads. During the week some efforts were made to repair some of the potholes. This consists of lorries dumping a pile of earth near the pothole, with these being flattened by hand the following day. In the meantime the pile of earth creates a ‘super’ speed bump which slows down the traffic further.

Thursday morning was Malcolm’s last day at SAFI before flying back to the UK. In Tanzania it is important to have a proper farewell, and following speeches of thanks everyone sat down for a meal, with Malcolm in the seat of honour.

The centre piece was a delicious chocolate cake, with the message ’Asante Babu’.

Only thing to do – tuck in to the cake.

 And so it was time to say farewell to:

-         -  The staff at SAFI. (By the way, in sign language each person has a sign - name. so that individuals can be referred to in a discussion.  Malcolm's sign-name is to stroke your chin)

         -  Harriet the house-lizard

-        -   And the tallest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro.