first impressions and happenings at camp

JANUARY 5, 2010

This is the second day of camp and we started the day
with morning games. The students "go bananas" for our
parachute games, as most have never seen a parachute before. Afterwards, classes proceeded to their rooms to continue with games that seek to develop ideas of support, teamwork, and trust-concepts that become crucial when we discuss communities dealing with high rates of HIV infections. It is so wonderful to see the expressions of joy on their faces. Malawi really is the "warm heart of Africa."

The Head Master and Standard 8 Teacher devoured their tea and biscuits during the Teach Facilitator’s meeting, as Karen went over the condom demonstration we do with the kids. She explained to them that by using bananas and condoms the teachers could give their students a means for learning about the appropriate way of using the condom. In doing this it makes the awkwardness of the situation more comfortable. The teachers totally agreed.

Blood to blood contact is the easiest way to transmit HIV, as blood is carries a higher concentration of the virus than other bodily fluids. Yet, unprotected sex is still the most common way of HIV transmission, worldwide. Thus, the importance of approaching proper use of condoms, even though it is uncomfortable for students, parents, teachers, and sometimes even us!

During a discussion of the effects of deforestation in Malawi, groups built solar ovens while they learned about alternative energy options. Our mock solar ovens are built out of cardboard, black paint, duct tape, scissors, and aluminum foil. While they suprisingly heat up water quite well (!), a real solar oven would need to be much bigger and constructed from materials such as tin, bricks, and charcoal. Resources (including wood!) are scarce in rural Malawi. The teachers explained that tin is very expensive and they are currently looking for new ideas. Though they do feel that alternative energy is necessary and that this would help their villages. Villagers could use solar ovens to heat water instead of burning wood. Aside from saving trees, it would also allow families to cook without having to walk 4-15 km just to gather wood, as forrests continue to deplete throughout the country.


Written by:
Kate Faust, photographer, project assistant, and World Camp mom
JANUARY 5, 2010