Day 6

Our last day today. Roof on Fayinesse's house and brickwork continuing on Violet's house.

 

 

A Sunday, so all the kids at home and everyone very relaxed. The village seemed busy with the women busy cooking for the post dedication ceremony lunch. Wise (from the Community Based Organisation) brought his wife and children to see us which was wonderful. Fayinesse spoke about her recollections of British rule and her memories of King George! A truly amazing lady. We played with the children and practiced our performance for the ceremony. Margaret had bought bubbles which the children got really excited about.

 

The ceremony commenced with dancing, then a welcome from the village chief. There were many chiefs also present from adjoining villages as this was seen as a very important occasion. More dancing and more speeches - the dancing was truly stunning and also very amusing and some of the Touchstone team joined in - much appreciated by the village!

Margaret as team leader gave some of her speech in Chichewa - very brave! John then thanked the community for making us such a loved part of their families and their community. Margaret and John were then made honorary members of the Banda tribe (holy people and mystics), in the case of Margaret, and the Phiri tribe (kings and aristocracy) in the case of John. A true honour! We had to participate in the ceremony of course and do "our" dance. We cheated a bit and got all the children to join us in "If you're happy and you know it" and the Hokey Kokey led by Julie and enjoyed by all!

 

Following the ceremony and having met with all the village chiefs we had lunch with the families prepared by the ladies of the village. Beef, chicken and goat with rice and nsime, with beans, shredded cabbage, peas and sweet potato with ground nut. An absolutely fantastic meal which was enjoyed by everyone. The children got Fanta to drink. The next time they will have the chance to drink this will be Christmas.

 

Then it was time to go. A really emotional farewell to those who, in a short week, have become our closest friends. John was asked if he wanted to take Moossa with him but had to agree to leave him with his mother as he is still breast feeding.  Back to the hotel for a final meal and up early for the long drive back to Lilongwe.