Party On

My party in Mylomin at the weekend went well.  Some photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/30047150@N02/ About 1 km from Abi Adi, it would probably be described as a hamlet in the UK.  However, when anyone refers to the place here, they are always talking about the bar.  I am not exaggerating when I call the setting "paradise".  The sort of place that in different circumstances could bring in huge amounts of money.  There is no need for a hotel even though the structure exists.  Anyway, I believe that is my Western head talking.  Everybody here just appreciates the place for what it is. 

 

The party was attended by a few volunteers and many colleagues.  I spent the morning buying vegetables, beer and purchasing a goat for slaughter (more later).  With the one local mini-taxi hired, tables and chairs ready organised and the bonfire built – everything was set.  It is traditional for all the chairs to be arranged into a circle like a large AA meeting.  Although reserved at first; it does not take long for the beer to be drunk, the goat meat to be cooked and faces to be stuffed; before the dancing begins.

 

Dancing here is an art form.  Every region (sometimes each village) has their own style.  Most northern versions resemble a group of chickens strutting their stuff.  Anyone wishing to replicate should, place both hands on their hips; and with their back straight and from the waist down, bounce up and down, while shaking their shoulders about (see photo 3). This transcends the Indian dance for anyone lucky enough to witness.  All participants then circulate, which is occasionally interspersed by an exuberant member who wishes to show why he is the best dancer.

 

The other format that is saved for elongated songs consists of a man and woman in the centre.  The man's duty being to dance around and entice the woman I guess, while she folds her arms and looks unimpressed.  This is followed at random intervals by another man stepping up to have a go.  With dutiful respect the first dancer sits down and provides the new contender an opportunity. (see photo 4 for a fine example from Kashau)

 

All in all, a fun evening

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Shocking News

A sombre day as news travels quickly that a student committed suicide last night.  Thankfully, I am informed early on, as often information is not shared.  Classes are cancelled.  Although a first for this college, apparently it is not uncommon at University.  It is another reminder that I am often unfamiliar with cultural differences.  How should I act?  What should I say?  Some teachers appear unaffected, whereas others (in stark contrast to traditional culture) show open signs of emotion.  Rumours as usual, spread fast as to how and the reason why.  The popular line of reason is a positive test result for HIV.  All the more striking as last weekend was HIV Awareness Day with dramas, poems and music organised and performed by the students on the relevant dangers.

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Quiztime

Name 3 American states with the letters USA in.

Answers as blog comments.

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Driving

Well I got the chance to try out some driving today.  Not exactly off-road but close enough.  You can tell by my expression that I had to concentrate really hard.  Not just the driving on the wrong side, or even the dust and slippy stoney surface, but the mad bus drivers that charge towards you or appear from nowhere and overtake anywhere they feel like.  Don't think I'm really allowed by VSO or the college but don't tell anyone.  I think the driving test here is: Drive forward for 100 yards and turn around.  I blamed having a gear stick and handbrake on the right hand side for the close misses with other vehicles.

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Fuel Crisis

The fuel crisis seems to have hit even the reaches of Ethiopia.  The buses are currently on strike due to rising fuel prices.  Ongoing disagreements with the government over ticket prices which have risen from 20-24 Birr while I've been here.  This often means that many people with their own transport take the opportunity, to illegally transport people around the country.  That said, some policemen clearly salute and smile, have a brief discussion and let you on your way.  Others however, can fine the driver 150 Birr – which is about the same as what he can make for his troubles.  On that note, I have to say that the policemen look absolutely hilarious.  They ride around on these old motorbikes, with white "Chips" style helmets and long black jackets and large shades.  Not sure I should smile so much when they board the bus!

 

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Flickr pictures 5

http://www.flickr.com/photos/30047150@N02/

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Power On

I went to a school today to set up their computer and provide some initial training.  After being picked up at 6am and travelling 90 minutes over rough ground we arrived.  The usual mix of local children hang around once they see a ferenji visiting.  Walking around the village we visit a restaurant and try out some Tigrinian.  And on the way back, what looks like someone's front room we enjoy a coffee or two.  The weather is fine all day.  All things considered an enjoyable day – except the school had no power all day!

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