Chiverano

On Wednesday June 1, we went to Chiverano in the morning and Nhamainga in the afternoon.  We had a pretty good rain storm in the morning and it was good to be teaching in the machessa.  The roof is made of plastic sheeting and it is covered with palm leaves.  There were plenty of holes but by positioning benches in an abstract way we were all able to sit in dry spots and had a good time teaching the topics of Malaria, Nutrition, Immunizations, Cholera/diarrhea and the treatment of dehydration.  In the afternoon we went to Nhamainga and the people in this village are a hoot.  They love to sing and dance.  For our stretch break Suzanne led us in the "Hokey Pokey" and they absolutely loved it.  Many people besides the 8 medical promotors stayed.  Over 20 leaders in the community.  The people are eager to learn.  Teaching them what a protein and carbohydrate at times was frustrating.  It is very common for people to eat the same thing every day.  They may have rice and beans with little variation.  There is malnutrition in a land of plenty. One leader shared with us that he ate chicken and rice every day and thought that he was eating healthy.  Chicken is not affordable to the poor.  He said he was not feeling well and went to the clinic.  He said he was surprised when the medical provider told him he was not eating correctly.  We teach them to eat cereal and grains, fruits and vegetables, protein, and a little bit of good fats or oils every day.  They are understanding and many will go home and make an effort to vary their diets and eat a variety of foods daily.  They usually sell any excess food for money. Today was Childrens day.  A big holiday in Mozambique.  All the children were dressed up with new clothes and the girls all had colorful beads in their hair.  They all walked around with little colorful baskets given by their families with treats in  them.  It looked like Easter Sunday.  I will try to post a photograph later.  Large celebrations were occuring at the schools.