Sorry it took me so long to upload a blog! It turns out that the internet company here has a limit to how many gigabytes you can use. I didn’t realize this and burned through mine in 2 days. Needless to say we purchased unlimited internet when we went to Lilongwe this weekend. So be prepared for very frequent pre-prepared blog posts for the next couple of days!
I can’t believe that Renata and I (and all the other interns) are finally here in Malawi!!! It’s been a crazy first week here. After two solid days of international flights, we landed in Kamuzu International Airport, were we were graciously greeted by one of the hospital workers who drove us 45 minutes from the international airport to the village of Namitando, where St. Gabriels Hospital is.
We are currently staying at the Zitha house which is fully stock
ed with a complete kitchen, en suite bathrooms, and a television for watching Nigerian soap operas, which are my favorite.
I’ve absolutely fallen in love with the village. From the friendly smiles in the hospital, to the casual Chichewa lessons with our housemates, and the friendly people in the market, the villagers here really embody the idea of Malawi being the “warm heart of Africa”.
What’s that you say? You didn’t know Malawi had a nickname? You didn’t know anything about Malawi?
*A Brief History of Malawi*
Malawi, formerly known as Nyasaland, is a landlocked country surronded by Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Its one of the smallest countries in Africa and is about 1/3 water. Initally settled in by migrating Bantu groups in the 10th century, the country was colonized by Great Britian in 1891. After going through several phases of government changes, Malawi became and independent country on July 6, 1964. Malawi is largely rural; agriculture makes up a substantial part of the economy. In addition, Malawi has a low life expectancy, high infant mortality rates, and high maternal deaths rates. (Side note: this is one of the reasons why what St. Gabe’s is doing in the community is so important). The currency is the Malawian Kwacha (1 USD= 440.00 MK) and the official language is English, but Chichewa is most widely spoken. This is especially true in Namiete, where many villagers speak absolutely no English. There is a pretty substantial tourism business for people looking to backpack, safari, climb mountains, or visit the amazing inland beaches. So come visit me!
*End History Lesson*
By far, what is sure to be the most meanigful part of our stay here is the time we spend in the hospital. Dr. Myeba, Alex, and Suave are such good mentors that I know that we will get a lot accomplished. This is going to be a great summer!!!
