fws team blog

Mamas
I have been lucky enough in recent times to have my Mama and her partner visit me in Arusha. What an amazing journey for us all; we will have memories and stories to share for a very long time. I often wonder what is the first story that they choose to share with family and friends since they have returned home! It will certainly make my adjustment back into Australian life a little easier to know that I have family who I can share these memories with; who understand just where I have been, what I have been doing and the people I have met during my time in
Tanzania.



There are many fond memories that I think of every day since my family returned home. However, I will share just one ever present theme; the overwhelming respect that people have for Mamas. The first day that my Mama, Tom and I walked to Kesho Leo was quite emotional. The walk and scenery itself is beautiful, the kids and families you greet a long the way equally so.



On this first walk we met with Gladi's Mama; Jennifer. There were tears of joy and lots of broken English and Kiswahili chatter and lots of laughter. I had informed Jennifer and Gladi a few days earlier when we had walked to Njiro for Gladis physio appointment together, that my Mama and her partner were visiting in the following week; we were all very excited. But I had not expected that when my Mama and Gladi's Mama would meet that it would be so special. Jennifer thanked my Mama for giving birth to me and thanked her for allowing her only daughter to come to Tanzania. I had not expected such a response. Although we spoke only briefly; the mutual feelings did not require words.

We continued on our walk to KeshoLeo, there were many looks of surprise and delight as I introduced my Mama to the people from our village. The looks on their faces were just beautiful. We entered the gates of Kesho Leo to be welcomed warmly by Gladi runnning down the driveway. Her energy and excitement was another of those memories that words can not really describe. I have the greatest respect for Gladi and her lifes journey. She too thanked my Mama for giving birth to me and allowing me to come to Tanzania.

The arrival of my family also coincided with Gladi achieving another of the milestones she has set for herself over the past three months of medical treatment; her wounds were now healed! I had been waiting to give her a gift and share in a small celebration of this achievement with her and her family; but it was now an ideal opportunity for my family and Gladi's to celebrate together.

I had been practising what I had wanted to say on the way back from town in the dala dala, but when it came time for me to speak all the prep went out the window. Trying to remember Kiswahili while a tad emotional (actually even when not emotional) was more difficult then I had expected. However, they know my kiswahili is poor and have become good at filling in the gaps for me. So they did understand what I was saying (although I did make a huge blue in saying "I forgot" instead of "I am happy"). Thankfully I was quickly able to recognise and fix my huge error! We gave Gladi her gift and she was so excited, she wrapped the scarf around her head and went running around her boma; laughing in true Gladi style.

There are so many more experiences that I could share, but for the sake of not waffling, perhaps I shall reserve these memories for myself and my family. However, I feel very honoured to have all of these wonderful Mamas in my life. I look forward to sharing more times with the Mamas at Kesho Leo and those that live in the community of Sinon. Thanks Mum and Tom; a time shared is never forgotten,.

Happy, Mary and Norah

Aggie and her Mama

My Mama and a friends Mama

Dativa & Elizabeth

Mama and I