It's hard to describe the recent Mir Pace trip to Tanzania in just one word-it was unique, interesting, inspiring, sometimes difficult, and life changing all at the same time. Our group not only saw the impoverished conditions many people live in, but for three weeks we experienced their ways of life, working and living among them. Despite the obvious destitution some of these adults and children lived in, they were some of the most content and peaceful people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I don't think I will ever forget them.

 

The real work for our group started when we visited Kuleana, a center for street children, in Mwanza. The facility was entirely occupied by boys, ranging in age from about seven to 14 years old. Some of the boys came from unstable situations, and some were simply abandoned or abused at home. Without Kuleana, many of the boys would undoubtedly be living on the street. Despite some of the hardships these kids faced, they rarely, if ever complained. Spending time with them doing the simplest things-playing soccer, teaching them to play cards, and listening to their stories-really motivated all of us to work really hard when it came time to start our project of replacing the tattered and torn screens on the boys dormitory walls. Every ounce of sweat we put into the project was gratifying and liberating, knowing we were not only giving these boys a clean room, (in addition to helping prevent the contraction of malaria), but a better quality of life as well.

 

Chabalisa, our next stop after Mwanza, was perfectly described to us as "the real Africa." While it was certainly a culture shock for us (with little electricity and no running water), the majority of Africans live as they do in Chabalisa. The town was a good five-hour drive away from the nearest city; many residents of Chabalisa are incredibly self-reliant. They grow their own food, build their own houses, and live their lives simply. It was here in Chabalisa that our group experienced firsthand the true depths of poverty. It was heartbreaking and amazing at the

 

same time. Heartbreaking, to see the falling-apart house in which one family lived in. Heartbreaking, to see children dying of conditions such as diarrhea. Even during the harder times, it was amazing and encouraging to see the doctor and nurses at the hospital who worked so tirelessly for their patients, despite their surroundings.

It was especially refreshing and invigorating to see the children who came to visit us every day. We would spend afternoons reading with them, playing soccer with them, or teaching them games. With their beautiful brown eyes and wide smiles, you couldn't help but want to give them the entire world all at once. Although we spoke little Swahili and they spoke no English, I believe connection that transcended the two completely different groups-black, white, African, American-is more powerful than any racial or ethnic divide. In those children, we saw pieces of ourselves, flashes of humanity, and the most potent force that binds each and every one of us-love.

 

This trip was unlike anything any of us have ever experienced. Africa is often depicted in the media as being a continent filled with horror, poverty, and war. Little attention is given to the countless groups and individuals who work to bring about change throughout Africa. Our group certainly made a difference in Tanzania, but it is really the many wonderful people we had the honor of meeting who will have the biggest impact on our world. They are making their communities safer for millions of people, and they inspired us to help the poor of Tanzania, one project at a time.

Team Tanzania, July/August - 2007

Our IHSM program in Tanzania was a tremendous success thanks to our volunteers, our leaders, and to our exceptional host, Father Jovin Bampabula. We are grateful to Father Jovin for his love, friendship, and for his commitment to make this mission possible. Asante sana, Father!

We at Mir Pace extend our heartfelt thanks to Alana, Annette, Austin, Jack, John, Lizzie, Lois, Megan, and Natasha for "being the change we wish to see in the world!"