Arrived in Mwanza airport (it's a hallway and a room, but works) Thursday. Met by Paula Lofstrom and Mboto, the driver. Paula is absolutely charming (she lives here with her husband Denny and pretty much runs the place) and so is Mboto. He told me on the drive in that Mwanza is known as "Rock City." I said "oh...rock'n'roll?" and shook my hands like I was at an AC/DC concert. Mboto looked at me like "well...uh..crazy woman" and explained that the terrain is unusually rocky, wih big boulders popping up everywhere - I noticed this after a few minutes into the trip. Note to self - do not assume the presence of "rock'n'roll" just because you're delirious with jetlag and excitement. Self control, Eugenia....*sigh*
We drive through Mwanza city, which is a bit like downtown Nicosia in terms of size, but in some places it looks like a bomb went off. Very little urban repair... Driving seems hazardous, but it was actually okay because people are generally careful even if it seems like they're about to careen into you. No cops, but lots of parking attendants. No seatbelts on anyone... But the bumpy road keeps the speed to a minimum.
We stopped at a post office for Paula to check her mail (many ppl here traditionally have P.O. Boxes because they live on a land plot without a street address) as well as a pharmacy run by the Ladhani brothers. Indian expats seem to run lots of businesses here.
Drove out of Mwanza city to the suburb of Nyakato, where the clinic compound is located (clinic itself, buildings in progress, housing for staff, etc.). Road had a stream parallel that ran down to Lake Victoria. Stream contained rubbish from local residents as well as wastewater from uphill. No swimming in Lake Victoria. Many stray dogs walking around but Paula was pretty clear that I cannot pet them and make them my friends. *saaaaaaad face* Did I mention I miss Dave?! (and Frank too, calm down hubby)
Will upload pictures of where I'm staying in the next post.
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