On Saturday I hopped on the Greyhound and headed up to visit Mthatha for one last time. With only a couple of weeks remaining, I would not be able to schedule another visit.
It was tough to leave. Most of my internship was spent in Mthatha working for the Centre for Rural Development. Under the guidance of Clemens, I was able to go visit community members in the rural areas and receive an education textbooks will never be able to match. I was able to see the homes in which these folks have built and lived in for generations. I was able to witness the passion of individuals coming together to create a business so that they may become productive, earn an income and help their community.
However, working at the Centre was at times very challenging. The Director wanted to be involved in the basic day-to-day operations and as a result, everything moved at a slower pace. Also, I had the feeling of wanting to do so much more but feeling restricted by the structure of the environment. Whenever these moments presented itself to me, I would walk outside and stare at the beautiful site of Africa. Because we were located on top of a hill, I could look out and see the wide landscape, the rural homes and the mountainous background. It was magical to see the sun set.
Professor Bello and his family are such lovely and amazing people. When I first met him at Clemens’ house for dinner back in September, he was wearing a traditional Nigerian outfit. I told him I wanted to purchase one from him. In return, Prof Bello and his wife, Mama Bello, gave me one as a gift and even tailored the outfit. Mama Bello is one of the best cooks. I will miss her homemade samosa’s and Nigerian tea. I look forward to the day I can meet all of them again.
And then there is Kate and Clemens. They became my family in Africa. I grew so much with them these past five months. I was in their wedding and basically lived at their home. They were always there for me. Clemens, my mentor, who I have learnt so much from. And Kate, my “Mama Africa” who worried every time I left Mthatha. May it be playing monopoly, watching “24” or just sharing ridiculous jokes – my time in Africa would not have been the same without these two.
Oh! Can’t forget Clemens’ old 1980s Mercedes-Benz. That car shut down on us so many times. My favourite memory would be the time I had to steer the car while Clemens dragged it with a rental car. We had to maneuver turns, avoid potholes and drive up and down the hills of Mthatha. Ahh, good times.
Mthatha…Haibo!
"Qunu meeting"
"Qunu Cooperatives"
"CRD Security Team"
"The Mamas who keep CRD shiny"
"Xolani & Andisa"
"Cinga & Shirley"
"Sibo!"
"The Bello's"
"Kate & Clemens"
"Sunset at my favourite spot"
