The Home Stretch

The past few days have been spent meeting with each existing cluster. We discussed maintenance and taught them how to replace pump valves, the most commonly broken component. The clusters also brainstormed other potential problems and we discussed how to fix them. Most of the groups are confident they can repair any problems. We also gathered feedback for the improvements to the tank design and for potential new tanks. Many people recommended above ground tanks because they are easier to construct whereas some preferred the below ground tanks for their lower costs. We found that the sharing is going well and even if not every household contributed financially the others still allow them to gather water. Everyone was appreciative of the tanks and they all hope we can continue working with Ddegeya.

At all of the meetings we had a bit of waiting time while people gathered and Sarah and Leone decided we should sing and dance. Scott and I sang patriotic songs while the Ugandans sang about their Kabaka, the king of the Buganda tribe. Ddegeya is part of the Buganda kingdom, the largest tribal group in Uganda. Sarah and Leone are also Buganda and led the songs for the Kabaka. We also had a dance party with Shamim, Mrs. Muwanika's two year old granddaughter. She has invented many interesting dances.

Everyone is eager to return home. Scott and Sarah are looking forward to their home foods. We will all miss Ddegeya, especially our friends there. Eddie, the host of the boys, will miss playing chess and talking with Scott. Ivan, Mrs. Muwanika's grandson will miss having people to play cards with. Mrs. Muwanika said she didn't mind cooking for us and hoped we would stay. People frequently ask us about past team members and hope they return.

Tomorrow we'll be leaving Ddegeya around 2pm to head to the airport and Kampala to drop off Sarah and Leone. We won't be able to blog in transit so this will be our last Oli Otya from Ddegeya. Stay tuned for future trips!