How can I describe the last few days? I have started writing this entry a number of times so will just go for it. Sadly, after a terrible car accident, my counterpart's father died this week. He had been flown last week from Mekelle to Addis to receive spinal treatment but apparently little could be done. They even considered flying him to Kenya for treatment. Within a few days, another teacher's father also died suddenly this week. Following that, as much as I understand, some shocking news about a teacher in Abi Adi, who stabbed and killed his wife after an argument.
I heard when I first arrived about how a public bus can be diverted and stop at a house for the passengers to get off and show their respect. It is traditional (both culturally and compulsory) for staff and students to visit, on mass, the grieving family's house. There they will sit in silence for about 20 minutes and then leave. I have recently attended three of these "wakes". Although not dressed in black, both men and woman, will often wear "shash" material, like a shawl, over their heads. A family may often stay in the house for a week waiting for people to visit. Close friends of the relatives are also expected to stay with the family for some time.
Over the last six months I seem to be far more aware of people passing away. A large number of teachers have had parents die while I have been here. Life expectancy is around 45 and the infant mortality rate is 1 in 10. The obvious factors are HIV, difference in medical care and higher road traffic incidence. It is yet another reminder that while my focus here is to improve ICT, most people have much greater responsibilities and issues to deal with than I am familiar with facing. Understandably my training seems of little importance.
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1 comment:
(((((((((HUGS))))))))
Really sad news and yes it does make you take stock of things----but your doing a fantastic job out there and you musn't forget it
Take care xx
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