Hello from Dar es Salaam!

We have moved into the new city compound and the internet is up and running strong. The new center is the hub for all administrative activities in the HOCET ministry, as well as the residence of the Mwalugaja family. Headmaster Dennis and I, a volunteer from Gainesville, FL, are busily typing the terminal exams for the students at Hananasif Academy School. (the Shamba site)

The Shamba center has been undergoing some big changes in the past two months. The guest house is built and is nearing completion every day. The teachers' cottages, the frame of which have been built, is next on the agenda. We have succeeded to use the electric well pump with our generator so the students no longer drink or bathe with water from the river. This has cleared up a host of gastrointestinal issues.

We have welcomed two new teachers, Daniel and Benno, from the University. They have been busy teaching English, Civics, and History to the students. The new drama/batik teacher, Hilda Juma, has been making the journey out to shamba every weekend to teach the students. Last week, the drama class performed for the Watoto wa Afrika (Children of Africa) celebration in nearby village Shungumbweni. They were well received and had a flawless performance.

We have welcomed the Hope Runs (www.hoperuns.org) organization at the Shamba center as well. They brought over 100 pairs of high-quality running shoes and three volunteers, Molly, Alyisha, and Jenny. The students run every day and are learning much about stretching, exercise, and personal health through the program. They are now organizing and training the students for a 10K Race to the Ocean at the end of July.

Last week, we hosted 11 volunteers from the Grace Methodist Church in Gainesville, FL. While at Shamba they provided 200kgs of rice and 100kgs of beans, planted shade trees, installed ceiling boards, and spent every moment learning and teaching with the students. We thank them very much for their support.

Here some pictures I have taken in the last few weeks:

Hananasif Academy School group picture. Students, teachers, and staff.

Students at Shamba participating in batik making, a local tradition similar to tie-dye.

Mbeck, 14, a student of Hananasif Academy School, Form I.

Students worshipping in the morning at the Shamba center.

"Doctor" Issack using a digital camera during the Photography Class at Hananasif Acdemy School.

God Bless.