Day 5

Wow today was a great day full of work, excitement and good time. After our morning devotion we all set out to the field to continue work on the pit latrine. After an hour of working we were joined by the local children who helped dig, played games and spent time sitting with us.
At the same time a bulldozer crew and grader crew began to clear the area for the new Football Pitch (Soccer Field).
We also began the process of burning the thatched roof we had removed from the inzaca. During the burn the winds picked up and the fire jumped the fire line and started the surrounding grass on fire. The grass fire grew and everyone including the children ran over to pitch in.
Sensing that there was a true emergency Dave sprang into action pushing past Firefighter Ed. Taking a cue from the local children who had all grabbed tree branches and started beating the flames, Dave acquired his own branch and began to assault the fire. With team work the flames were extinguished and all was well.
After the fire Sean left and was able to meet with some local pastors who were participating in Action Zambia’s Pastor Leadership Development class. This class is sort of a bible college for pastors. None of the pastor here are full time pastors they all have full time jobs and then come home and make time for their family’s and serve their congregation. Some of these men get up at 3am every morning to study the bible before their work day. Because these men have no formal training one arm of Action Zambia is dedicated to training these men in proper doctrine and interpretation of the scriptures. Sean was able to meet with these men and was even able to teach a class.
After Lunch it was back to work. While we continued to dig the latrine we heard shouts from the children. About fifty yards away a large Cobra who had been disturbed by the bulldozer fled its nest. With screams from the children “njoka!!!!” (“snake” in Nyanja) every child on the football pitch without skipping a beat ran at a dead sprint in the direction of the snake. As they ran they scooped up rocks. With military precision the children let loose with an impressive savo of rocks aimed at the Cobra. The withering barrage kept the Cobra from raising up and spitting its venom. After several minutes the Cobra was dead and the children exploded in celebration. This was a great moment to share with these young Zambians and our bonds of friendship grew.
After a great day in the field it was back to the farm for chow. As an appetizer our hosts served us Termites which were very yummy. After dinner we were briefed on Action Zambia’s C.R.O.S.S. ministry which deals with assisting Zambians who are H.I.V. positive. The ministry also helps educate Zambians about H.I.V. prevention.
Prepared By Marty Bandvik