20 September 2007

Hi all!
Sorry about the delay in emails, but the power situation in Luweero has been puzzling to say the least. Apparently their local council has had a disagreement with some higher-ups and therefore, the town has been receiving limited to no power for the past four-ish weeks. Anyway, now that I sit here to write, I don't know where to begin!
My adventure on public transportation to Kahunde (as far west as non-nationals are allowed to go in Uganda due to the DRC issues) was interesting -- picture me, 21 other people and 4 live chickens squashed into a 9-person passenger van with two full-size mattresses strapped to the top -- for a 6 hour drive. What fun! The PCV I stayed with has been in Uganda for two and a half years and is an education volunteer. Her site is as rural as it gets for PCVs -- no power, running water or other amenities and guess what...the peaceful three days that I spent there were some of the most enjoyable yet! Upon my return, my family slaughtered yet another chicken to celebrate the safe journey of their "daughter".

The biggest news I have is that I have found out my site for the next two years! I will be in Kyotera working for ANPPCAN (African Network for Protection and Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect). They have been in Uganda for over ten years, operate in 5 districts and are ready to take their mission to the next level. Basically that means that I will be helping them to create legislation that they can bring before the Ministry of Health and lobby for better/improved laws for orphans and other vulnerable children. I am so excited! Hopefully, I am up to the task -- I meet the lawyer they have on staff next week and can't wait to get going!
There are about four more weeks of training, which include a future site visit so I will have much to report about my living situation, size of town, etc. JIC you wanted to find Kyotera on the map, it is extremely close to the Tanzania and Rwanda boarders in the south west part of Uganda by Lake Victoria.
I miss everyone and thank you so very much for the emails, letters and updates from the States. All my best to you and yours...
Peace and love,
Julie