Seeing as I haven't written on this site in many many months, so many things have happened... It's hard to start. Well, I guess I don't need to rush the story. I'm still living in Kigoma, TZ where I took the photo of the Dala Dala with Obama's likeness emblazoned across the back (shown at the right) on my way to work. Just another day in my neck of the woods. It's rainy season now, again, with days of heavy rains as frequent as of the dry searing sun. I stay indoors mostly now. On the surface it would seem that I've simply gotten used to living in paradise. Yet, the reality of the situation is that for me life in Kigoma has been as turbulent as it has been placid. I've witnessed a man suffering from late stage AIDS crawling on the dirt floor of his home--the former breadwinner of a household containing 7 minor children. Sigh. I wish that I was able to do something about this man's dilemma. Kigoma has a relatively low (some estimates put less than 2%) HIV prevalence rate, among the lowest in the country. Although no one I know who is actually from Kigoma thinks this is anywhere near accurate. For as much progress as has been made in recent years in overcoming stigma, this is still a powerful deterrent to seeking treatment. Despite the presence in Kigoma of The International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs (ICAP) of Columbia University, which provides ARVs and Counseling and Testing, we have an uphill battle to fight. I want to save some of this for later as I share my current position as consultant on an initiative to expand Home Based Care for persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) by peer caregivers as well as the research I conducted assessing all the maternity wards in Kigoma Municipal. For now, check out my new site, nag me if possible to stay on it, and feel free to share your thoughts and inquiries.Christie
4 comments:
Christie Dear, we can not begin to imagine life in Kigoma. From the beautiful landscape to the simplicity of the township and the plight of the poor living there. In the last year you have experienced more than many of us will in a lifetime. I'm looking forward to reading about the maternal health survey and what you found.
Hi Christie,
I am just seeing this photo for the first time now. Since we last saw each other in Everlasting Life (orderind up some kale) I have been working as Reference Librarian for East Africa (come in and talk when you return). We have an exhibit, Obamabilia from Africa, where we display things Obama from Africa. We are now switching the items and need to replace photos previously used. Can we use your photo with credits? We have used other indviduals photos and people love the exhibit. Let me know!
Oh, BTW, I am at the Library of Congress African Section. You can find me at work at efer@loc.gov.
PEACE!
Hey Eve,
Thank you for your message. It is interesting that you shared that with me. First of all, you are most welcome to use the photo. I can email it to you directly if it would help. Please copyright 2010 Christie Johnson (c) at http://bronxkigoma.blogspot.com. All Rights Reserved.
I can share other photos for you. There is a wonderful Obama chewing gum for sale here that shows a photo of the whole family. I can bring some for you. Just let me know what you need. I would love to share some stories as well. Perhaps my students here would like to contribute as they are working on research in Kigoma. Do keep me informed!
Thanks for the notice!
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