Activities for the last day

Thursday is my last day in Cameroon. I'm scheduled to be anointed the Mufua for Nkem of the Fontem tribe. I'm excited. Professor Amin reviewed the process of the ceremony. Fortunately it is very simple. And they take this very SERIOUSLY. After that point, I will only be referred to as Mafua, unless we're in professional settings.

If I have time after the ceremony, I'll give you the rundown. If not, this will be my last post before returning home. If it is my last post, thanks for sharing this experience with me. I had planned to write more but limited internet access didn't make it possible. The internet connection is slow so I doubt I'll post any pictures until after my return--although I do at least want to post the pictures of me receiving my chicken from the Fon :-)

Later . . .

Highlights of the Belo trip . . .

I'm back in Yaounde now. As far as creature comforts go, I was miserable in Belo. However, I'm not going to talk about it because I'll just sound like the whining American that I am :-)

So let me give you highlights of my trip to Belo

***Went to a Baptist church service in the village. Interesting to note two similarities of black baptist churches at home and in the baptist church in the village--the choir/singing was absolutely fantastic and the service lasted WAY to long--hahaha

***Visited a program to help widows in two other villages. A moving experience. In both they called me their long lost daughter who has returned home to help them. Many women were visibly emotional to see me and in both places they sang impromptu tribal songs to welcome me. I was so overcome by emotion that I literally thought I was going to pass out.

***Took a trip to the palace of the leader of the Kom (Tikar) people. He's an older man in his 90's. His title is the Fon (phone)and his blood line for this title goes back for centuries. We had to go WAY up to a remote spot on the top of one of the mountains--I'm talking nose bleed elevation. It was very lush and unspoiled. The palace is basically a series of well constructed huts with spacious courtyards. It isn't opulent like palaces in other cultures. Very simple and basic. However, you know you're in a special place. I had to offer him gifts of wine, juice, honey, and a small financial offering. When we arrived, my guide gave an official my gifts. We had to wait about 15 minutes to see whether he would receive me and my party. The official summoned us to his throne, which is in a large courtyard surrounded by benches for official guests and dignitaries. Women and men were ordered to stand on different sides of the throne. We had to bow while he looked at us quietly. My guide spoke to him in the Kom language and explained the reason for our visit. He didn't say anything to me at first. He was interested in talking to one of my companions who's family is part of the royal family. He chatted with her and then requested we sit across the courtyard. He spoke to my guide and then there was a long, long silence. He finally requested I come to his throne. An official placed a traditional wrap around my waist. He spoke and my guide interpreted him saying he hoped he lived long enough for all Kom children to return home from around the world to help the tribe improve its condition. Then he gave me and my daughter our African names. I am Nayah (ni-ya) and my daughter is Niih (nuh) I wanted to get names for my brothers but I was told they would have to come and receive them. Then he presented me with a live chicken and told me to take it as a blessing. (And yes I have pictures!) He dismissed me. After a few minutes he summoned me back. He had two little girls beside him. They were named Nayah and Niih. He asked me what would I do for them. At first I was scared because I thought he might want me to adopt them or something:-) I hesitated for a second and said that I'd happy to do whatever I could for them. That was the FIRST time he smiled at me. He dismissed me again. Then we were told that the audience was over. As we were leaving, he requested I come back and view the woman's section of the palace. He apologized for not asking us to stay to eat, but the rains were coming and didn't want me to be stranded up on the mountain. (The roads are treacherous there.) That concluded the visit. Seems like a dream . . .

In Belo

Limited access to phones and Internet. Very different from Yaounde. I'm out in a remote village with very little creature comforts. The people are incredibly nice, but I've never been a person into "roughing" it and that's exactly what it is like out here.

The environment is lush. In the mountains surrounded by waterfalls. Will try to update more when I can get to another computer.

Experiences like this makes you appreciate the standard of living in the US :-)

Seems like a fairy tale, part two

The next day three delightful Tikar women from Belo, who live in Yaoundé, came to see me. They welcomed me to Cameroon and invited me to join their women’s organization, which helps Tikar people in the northwest province. I will pay the membership fee and join.

Belo is the location of the other organization where I’m volunteering. I was supposed to meet my contact there Saturday and stay until Wednesday. But he and I have been having problems connecting and confirming. I was about to abandon the idea of volunteering there and meeting the Tikar tribe until the visit from the ladies. They said they planned to call the mayor of Belo to meet me Saturday. Although not confirmed, they said I will probably be staying in one of his residences. He’ll show me around and provide some history for me. The ladies expressed regret that because of slavery I have lost my African ancestral family name. As a result the mayor and the others in the tribe would not be able to trace my specific family. (When my finances allow, I will hire a private investigator to do a record search starting in Mississippi to trace my family name. It’s doubtful, but it’s worth a try.)

They were so nice to me and kept saying how God had brought me to them. They prayed a blessing over me. Their warmth and sincerity actually made me cry. They asked about my parents and fully expect me to bring my daughter and brothers here next year so they can welcome them as members of the Tikar tribe.

During the visit from the Tikar ladies, Martin came in and invited them to my mufua ceremony. They promised to come and wear the uniform that represents the tribe and their organization. In addition, during the workshop, Martin invited all the participants to the mufua ceremony. Of course, this will generate good publicity for CITEC, as well as making me feel part of a family.

Now you can see why I used the term fairy tale to describe these events. It truly sounds like a plot from a Hollywood feel good movie. I had no expectations about this trip. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine these experiences. Like all of us, I have had my share of rejection and abandonment. Therefore it has been a true blessing to be so warmly welcomed and appreciated by so many people.

On my 'milestone' birthday last week I had this unfamiliar moment of peace in my soul. I knew that I was in a place in my life where acceptance by others no longer mattered. I find it interesting that within a week of REALLY letting go my lifelong obsession for acceptance, I’m experiencing acceptance in abundance (except at the Yaoundé airport :-)

I don’t know what tomorrow will bring. By the end of this trip they might want to run me out of the country :-) But this woman who grew up an unattractive, socially awkward girl from Meridian, Mississippi TREASURES AND APPRECIATES EVERY MOMENT.

Seems like a fairy tale, part one

After Tuesday’s presentation, Martin said he wanted to have a serious discussion with me. I listened as he explained that he is a nobleman in his tribe called Fontem. His position is called a nkem (kim). He and other nkems serve just below the tribal chief. There are pictures of him dressed in ceremonial robes. I just thought they were typical African traditional clothing. As he was speaking, his wife got up and showed more pictures to confirm his position.

Each nkem can select a woman, called a mufua (moo-frwa), to be his assistant. The mufua represents the nkem in business matters and makes sure his wishes are executed. The mufua also manages other women in the tribe. Other women must cater to her and defer to her wishes. I guess you can tell where I'm going with this. Nkem Martin Amin asked me to be a mufua in the Fontem tribe, based on my work and attitude.

Of course I thought he was having a joke at the expense of his clueless African American visitor. But he and the entire family insisted that this was a legitimate invitation, not commonly extended. The attitude of the children convinced me the most. They were deadly serious, no snickering or teasing me the way they sometimes do.

After getting further assurance from his wife, I humbly accepted. It's an honor that he would think enough of me to embrace me in his family and his tribe. I have tremendous respect and admiration for this scholarly, kind gentleman.

But this is the kicker: on the Thursday before I leave, there will the first of two ceremonies. In the first ceremony on Thursday, they will anoint me as a mufua. Then they want me to return next May to go to their tribe in the southwest province for a second ceremony in front of the chief and the entire tribe. I am to bring my daughter and brothers, as they will now be related to a mufua. (I have to check, but I think they said this title passes down to my daughter. I know the nkem title passes down to one of Martin’s sons.)

Since I'm Tikar from the northwest province I asked if I can assume this role in the Fontem tribe in the southwest province. According to Martin and Stella, all the western provinces, be it north or south, have this concept of mufua. So a Tikar can be a mufua in the Fontem tribe.

So I will now be Mufua BeLinda Nichols.

Note: Although I appreciate and embrace this honor, the egalitarian soul that I am does not feel comfortable being in a position that requires other women to cater to me. However, since I don’t live here or in the village, it won’t pose a problem :-)

For my soror in Los Angeles . . .

Being here with the men in Cameroon is like being a diabetic in a Whitman sampler. You have all these delicious chocolate flavors, but you're afraid to take a bite because you might go into shock ;-)

Despite it all I still managed to get photos . . .

I will load them up later today on Shutterfly. com (or some other similar photo sharing site)and provide the link.

Next post: photos and a story that seems like a fairy tale . . .

Television . . .

Besides their own national television outlet, Cameroonians primarily get South African, French, and South American sports and entertainment.

They seem to get their news primarily from Cameroonian national TV and from CNN.
I haven't seen BBC coverage, but I heard someone mention it, so perhaps I just haven't seen it on the TV where I am.
The only American influence I see is CNN and a few shows imported from America like Heroes and other dramas. I've also seen a few BET videos and some pop music videos.

Of course being Cameroon, there is plenty of soccer coverage! Cameroon IS SOCCER!! It seems as if the main soccer coverage outlet comes from South Africa (as well as
local Cameroonian coverage). The South Africans cover soccer in a similar style to ESPN. In fact, I think the outlet I was watching had an ESPN affiliation. Unfortunately, I don't like soccer. They seem so disappointed when I'm not familiar with past or present Cameroonian soccer players, but I'm going to try to make better efforts to at least know the players and more about the game.
They are as passionate about soccer here as I am about American football players and the game.

As you would expect, the majority of images on the screen are black, which thrilled me. All my life, I've been a "minority". In the US it's always a major social and political struggle to see yourself portrayed positively, and as a child growing up it was just a struggle to be on the screen at all! It's really draining to be embroiled in an never ending controversy for your humanity. So to see these images almost made me cry. It's frustrating to exclusively have your standard of beauty defined by a European standard that you can't meet or shouldn't have to meet. ALL people are beautiful and ALL images should be portrayed in the media. Those in the house who lived in Canada have a clue of what I'm talking about, but even they still don't quite get how I feel because African TV is their life and this is all they know.

Despite seeing black images on African TV, you see also frequently see all types of images--Latin, Asian, African, European--a truer representation of humanity.

The main source of television entertainment comes from Nigerian TV. Every night we watch dramas from Nigeria. The production values are not the greatest,
but the stories are very interesting and they give you a true glimpse of African life and culture. Usually the shows are two-parters and you don't have
to wait until the next night to see the second part. The shows are mostly morality plays. There is always a central character who struggles with
a moral dilemma. You see this character make mistakes, suffer tragic consequences, and overcome to become a better person. Watching these shows have given
me an insight on how Africans conduct business, arrange marriages, take care of orphans/indigents, and balance tribal tradition with modern lifestyle.


One nice thing about TV here is that there are hardly any commercials!!!!!!!!!!!

First workshop presentation

About an hour or so before the presentation, there was a torrential downpour. It is the rainy season here, but I haven't seen rain since I've been here--until today. Martin and the CITEC staff were afraid that the rain would discourage participation. It rained heavily until about 15 minutes before the start of the presentation. When I arrived I was surprised that their was a decent number of people who showed up. I wanted to start with just those people. But Martin and Stella insisted I wait because it's hard for some of them to travel in the rain. So I reluctantly waited for 30 minutes and they were right to have me to start late. By then the room was filled. A lot of the participants came because they saw the TV show and wanted to see the American Tikar who is finding her roots. It's amazing how powerful the media is. I am now known throughout that entire country. It's kinda creepy and exciting at the same time. Some other attendees were there from the ministry and the universities, as well as some current CITEC students.

As I said last night about the TV appearance, it's good I don't know anyone in Cameroon. Everyone from the school was impressed by the dignitaries. But to me they were just participants in the workshop.
So I felt completely uninhibited and conducted my lecture the way I do in my classes at SFSU. One ministry official gave me intimidating stares that seemed to say "let's see what this lame American girl can offer to a high dignitary like me". Again, since I didn't know him I just did my thing. At the end of the evening, he was very complimentary to me and was asking for my opinions about things.
Just goes to show that if you're confident and competent, you can survive all kinds intimidating experiences. It took me many, MANY, years to get that truth.

They were really impressed. And I have to admit I think I did a good job. But I believe anyone with good public speaking skills could have pulled this off.

I think I just stand out because I'm a long,lost relative from the US, who's been fortunate enough to work in some major corporations and
provide a level of information they'd rarely get a chance to learn.

It was gratifying to see how they grasped the knowledge. Cameroonians REALLY APPRECIATE education and they absorb any knowledge they can. They make teaching the rewarding endeavor
it is supposed to be. Their focus is on community development projects. During our breakout session, they developed projects like building bridges, improving hospital,
and so on. No one seemed to be interested in software development or IT projects, which is where I placed my emphasis. I will change my focus accordingly for the remainder
of the workshop.

Since the first presentation went smoothly, I won't bore you with posts about the remaining three unless something "belindadelic" happens, and hey one never knows with me. :-)

Television appearance

It went really well. I think the main reason was because I don't know anybody in Cameroon. When we went to the television station, most of the folks who accompanied me were excited and star struck by the TV personalities. After all, this is their national television outlet and one of their highest rated shows. These personalities are like Oprah, Letterman, Leno, and Brokaw to them. But I didn't know them at all, except the two I met the night I arrived. So it was no big deal to me in that sense. But I was excited for the people with me and I wanted to do a good job for CITEC. Unfortunately for CITEC, the interviewer asked very few questions that allowed me to talk about the school. The questions focused mainly on my DNA test and pursuit of my
Cameroonian heritage. I was concerned that the people of CITEC may have thought I pulled a fast one and purposely wanted to focus on me. But they understood my position and didn't have any hard feelings against me. Plus, they knew I tried to mention CITEC as much as possible under the circumstances. One funny note: The interviewer noted that I was single. She asked me what I thought of Cameroonian men. I said they were strikingly handsome and I couldn't keep my eyes off them. (which is true!) I received loud applause from the men in the audience, Then she told the male viewers all over the country that I was available. Right after the show I started getting calls!!!! Go figure. I had to reach the "golden" years of my life and travel to another continent to get "some play". Oh well, better late than never . . .

Note: Since the appearance, people are very concerned about me finding my Tikar family. A group of Tikar women are supposed to be contacting me. I have to admit I'm ashamed to say that I really hadn't focused on trying to find the exact family. It seems like an impossible task. I was just happy to trace to Cameroon. Their interest and concern is now prompting me to consider trying to take that next step.

The story of why they hate to be photographed

Here's a follow up to why Cameroonians hate to be photographed.

While touring downtown Yaounde, my lame tourist self insisted on
taking more pictures. I took a snapshot of some workers on the street. When they say me they started running toward me in anger. They wanted to snatch the camera from me. My guides had to protect me! They were shouting at me in French. They
only thing I could respond was "desole" ("sorry in French). My guides explained that they were saying they wanted to be asked to be photographed. They didn't necessarily mind photos. They just didn't want some stranger taking their picture without permission,which is SO totally fair and understandable. This is when my guide explained the reasons why I and other tourist have problems taking photos. Cameroonians are angered by foreign photographers because:
>>Foreigners have taken their pictures without permission and often made a profit from them. They feel they've been taken advantage of financially. Although I hear a lot of criticism about capitalism, they respect the dollar or shall I say the franc.
>>When foreigners have taken photos, they only show negative or unflattering images, such as shanty houses, poor people on the streets, filth and debris and so on. They also want the world to see the good parts and things of Cameroon.
>>Foreigners, in the guise of tourists, have taken pictures of government buildings, military installations, and so on. However,these tourists turned out to be informants for foreign governments. As a result, the pictures were used for covert military
operations adversely affecting the country.

When I learned of this, I stopped being so bent out of shape because I couldn't take my tourist photos. I understood why it is so hard to find pictures of things in Cameroon. I'm still able to take photos, but I respect their space and privacy. So
the few photos I have managed to get of sensitive areas, I will not publish. (I think no one will mind me sharing "harmless" photos.) And I probably won't get to produce the extensive documentary I wanted since my subject matter is so limited. But it would hurt me to know that my desire to post some photos and produce a documentary made them feel that I compromised their security and showed them a lack of respect.

My Host Family

Martin and his family are wonderful people. They have been so kind to me. I want people to know a bit about them.

Martin
Founded CITEC. Educated in Ottawa,Canada and has a Ph.d in statistical analysis. (In fact, he's in charge of montoring
the integrity of voting results in Cameroon!) Has written several books, including
research analysis and the educational process of Cameroon. Has taught in several universities in Africa: Yaounde, Uganda, and I think Ghana (need to verify that). Many people refer to him as "Daddy" because he's helps EVERYONE and has mentored countless numbers of people.

Stella
Martin's wife. Educated in Ottawa, Canada. Has a degree in education. Teaches secondary level high school. Mother of five sons who are being educated in Ottawa. Takes care of five "adopted" children. Great supportive person. Very kind and a GREAT COOK.

Five sons
Edmund, Kenneth, Marvin, Nelson, and Franklin. (not in chronological order) All live and go to school in Canada. Ages range from 19 to 30. Helped their father start CITEC by providing computers and technical expertise and support. All of them are being educated and/or working as computer engineers.

"Adopted" children ( I made a mistake in an earlier post and said they were taking care of four children)
Elizabeth: Will be 20 years old. Very kind. Warm smile. Great work ethic.
Stella: 13 years old. Sweet, sweet girl. Beautiful smile, Very dutiful and endearing.
Martin: not sure of age. I guess around 8 or 9. Very shy around me. Well behaved and respectful.
Joel: not sure of age. I guess between 14 to 17. Has hard time understanding my accent. Pretends not to like me, but I see him smiling at me from the corner of my eye when my back is turned.javascript:void(0)
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George: 21, could be older, but perhaps not much older. Really don't think he likes me, basically because I'm American. But I can tell I'm growing on him :-)

I get a lot of insight from the children and I'll share more of that in later posts.

Election Day

Note: Originally written on 7/22

7/22 is the day of national elections in Cameroon. There are 51 political parties. Wow!
Paul Biya is currently the President. He has been president since 1982.
The country is very excited about the elections. Their elections are held on Sunday.
Businesses that are normally open on Sunday are closed today.

Right now I'm looking at Cameroonian television coverage of the election.
The president and his wife just cast their votes. There was
mass excitement among the people to see them vote. There was coverage all morning.
After the president voted, full scale coverage ended :-)
I've been told that the ruling party stays in power mainly because of government workers. They secure their jobs by supporting
the status quo. That's the reason the President and his party have stayed in power for so long.

What I don't understand is the term limits issue in Cameroon. I need to ask how the president has justified
his many terms.

The newscasters continually urged Cameroonians to vote and exercise their democratic
right to vote. I'm impressed to see how attentive the young people are to the elections. They are glued to the television. Last night I overheard a conversation among them. One of the children asked one of the older ones if he was planning to vote. His response was "Yes, I'm supposed to vote." En masse the other children scolded him and SHOUTED you shouldn't say you're supposed to vote,
but that you're GOING TO VOTE. He had to assure them that he'd be voting.

The election process is peaceful in Cameroon, but of course not perfect.
Some younger voters were frustrated because they couldn't find their names on the voting list or their voting card had unexplainedly expired. (Sound familiar to you folks in Ohio and Florida!) They had international observers to monitor the elections. I found that funny. I agree with Jimmy Carter. We need international monitors in the US, not just in foreign countries. One other observation-- the children, as well as the adults were distressed that only 600,000 out of two million people in Douala ( the second largest city in Cameroon) were registered to vote. They were genuinely disturbed that the folks there were not more actively
engaged in the voting process. (I'll have to check, but I suspect percentage wise these are better numbers than some places in the US.)

Voting ends at 6pm.

Update: The election results indicate that the ruling party remains.

Update: Cultural faux pauxs . . .

Right after I made the first post, I went back and saw that the women who expressed that opinion were wearing slacks. Either I'm a evil western influence or they felt sorry for me and wanted me to feel welcome :-) But I doubt I'll see any jeans on them!

Cultural faux pauxs . . .

As I mentioned in the previous post, I'm a rabbit mouth American :-)

I'm also not lady-like because a woman "my age" shouldn't be wearing so many trousers, particularly jeans!

Believe me, I take all this in stride. It's a good lesson in cultural differences.

I have to admit that I am concerned that I won't be understood when I'm delivering my lectures. I'll try to slow down, but I can't change the way I speak in 48 hours. (This is really funny because I'm always telling my English as second language students to slow down during their presentation. I bet they wish they could see me now!!!)

I did bring skirts for my television appearances. I brought capri slacks for my workshop presentations, which apparently is acceptable. Plus as I watch TV and look around, many women wear jeans and slacks--even the first lady of the country wears slacks.

I think the problem with me is the age--a woman my age. It's OK for the younger women to wear slacks, not just some old spinster like me :-) :-)

All in all people have been wonderful to me. They still treat me like a queen. The food has been fabulous and the weather perfect. But I just want to document EVERYTHING I experience. Very few people visit Cameroon so I have a rare opportunity to reveal the culture to the world. And it's a great culture. In future posts I will highlight that so it won't seem as if I'm portraying a negative picture.

From the mouths of babes . . .

The children of the house and their friends were laughing at me. At first I didn't know why and in fact I didn't mind. After all children will be children. Eventually, my curiosity got the best of me and I had to ask why. They said they couldn't understand a word I was saying. I talked to fast. They said I was a typical American--rabbit mouth! They went on to compare and contrast American English versus British English. And of course, they criticized American English as being inferior. We don't take the time to enunciate words like the British and as a result it's harder for them to understand us.

I have to admit the criticism revealed an American bias on my part. I always think of other cultures as sounding strange. I was so focused on trying to decipher their accents that it didn't occur to me they were having the same problem! Shame on me!

Now this conversation revealed the resentment younger people have for America. It goes without saying they (not just the children) hate American foreign policy and the war in Iraq. When I asked one of the kids to come visit me in America, you would have thought I had cursed his family. He had no interest. Now I don't know if this is reflective of all youngsters in Cameroon. I haven't been here long enough to meet others, but somehow I think it "might" be the general attitude. They prefer Europe and Canada.

I even had someone (not the children) to tell me that it might be best for me not to tell many people I'm American for the sake of my safety! I should emphasize that I have Cameroonian heritage. Not don't be alarmed. I'm in a safe place here, protected by my hosts. But I think if I were on my own without knowing someone, I'd be wrapping up my visit pretty quickly :-) And I sure won't being going out at night!

Again I'm in no REAL danger, but it emphasizes the point of how current American policy has severely damaged the reputation of the USA to the world.

Good job, Mr. Bush!!

Trip to the open air market . . .

On Saturday, I accompanied Stella to an open air market. So far on this trip this has been the most "third world" experience I've had. When I was researching Cameroon I read a blog of traveler who had visited one of these markets and it's pretty much what she described.

In these markets, you find anything you need--fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, clothing, toiletries, and so on. It's very colorful and extremely busy. You walk through the market at your own risk. No one says excuse me and they will knock you over without any hesitancy.

I looked like the typical tourist with my camera trying to take snapshots. It was difficult because so many people were moving about. As I tried to take a snapshot someone would knock me over because I wasn't moving. Stella was very patient with me, guiding me along and protecting me from those who didn't want their pictures taken AND from those insisting to have their picture taken. (Cameroonians aren't very receptive to photographs. Now I know why it was so hard during my research to find pictures of the country!)

It was a different and fabulous experience. The only drawback was the sanitation factor. The market was located in a spot where the sanitation was poor. Junk and debris were everywhere. The meats were displayed on long tables in the open air-- flies circled all around! However, fish were contained in freezers in a little building in the back.

My hosts wanted me to know that this open air market doesn't totally reflect Yaounde. There are modern shops and malls downtown, which I am scheduled to visit later. And I want to mention this too. Africa/Cameroon contains many modern features and I don't want to contribute to the perception that the continent is exclusively filled with rural and backward people. Many people here are highly intelligent and educated. I have not lacked for any creature comforts. I think the biggest difference is the degree of luxury. In the west, material/creature comforts are more extravagant, modern, and luxurious. You get many of the same things here, but not quite as modern or extravagant.

But all in all it was a great picture into a different culture!!

Royal Treatment

After I arrived at Professor Amin's (Martin)home I met his gracious wife, Stella. Although they have five grown sons who live in Canada, they've adopted three children, who are really Martin's nephew and nieces.

They had invited more CITEC staff members and two local television personalities. Martin wants me to go on television to talk about my trip and "casually" mention the work at CITEC. I knew I'd be making a couple of television appearances, but what I didn't know was the appearances are for national television. Not only will I be seen in Yaounde, but the ENTIRE country. Oh my!!! The first appearance will be on a show called "Hello", their version of Good Morning America. The second appearance will be on the afternoon show, sort of like a Regis and Kelly formatted type of show, only with one host.

They were all so happy to see me, and some of them traveled a distance to be here to meet me. Usually I'm a shy person, but I was so humbled and honored that they'd take time out of their life to meet me, I decided I should be as engaging and as talkative as I could be. I was a chatterbox. I hope I didn't overdo it! But I figured how terrible would it be to come and meet someone and then that person didn't have much to say!! I hope didn't talk myself out and have something left for the interviews!!!

Stella prepared a lovely and delicious buffet. We sat and talked. I videotaped the guests for my documentary. There wasn't enough light, but I can't worry about everything.

For a shy kid from Mississippi, with self-esteem issues and few friends, I never felt so special. Although I know it was the staff has been "assigned" to take care of me, I will always treasure that moment of feeling special.

Back home . . .

After the airport experience, the experience of meeting my host was like night and day. My host, Professor Martin Amin, was so warm and welcoming. He was there to greet me with staff members of CITEC.(The staff members were very handsome :) They grabbed my bags and put them in an SUV. Everything was happening so fast that it occurred to me that I hadn't fully realized I was in AFRICA. Suddenly a wave of joy and appreciation set in. I was on the soil of my ancestors. I had returned home for all my enslaved ancestors who probably prayed to return home while they were confined in the cramped savage conditions of the middle passage. I had returned home for all those ancestors who toiled in the fields and wanted to return to the warm shores of their homeland. Well my ancestors through me your prayers have been answered--you have returned home through me. You are home now.

Yaounde airport

After traveling for almost 24 hours, I finally arrive at the Yaounde airport. NOT a friendly place! They are not familiar with the concept of customer service :-)
While still on the plane, the flight attendants distribute identification forms. On these forms you have to state who you are, why you're visiting, and who you're visiting. After getting off the plane, you follow the signs to baggage claim. Before you enter baggage claim you have to submit the form. It's rather confusing to know where to go and what to do. When you ask a question, they scowl at you. They make you feel miserable! I asked a guard who had taken a form and passport from another passenger should I give him mine. His response was "who do you think you are. You deserve no favors." I was speechless. I suppose I must of stood there looking hurt because in few minutes he came up, snatched my form and passport, and went around the corner. Then he returned with my passport and told me very coldly to go to baggage claim. I was too afraid to say thank you.

After I got my bags, I didn't see my host. Because of delays the flight was two hours late. I thought I'd better try to call my host. I went to another guard to ask how I could phone. His response was GET OUT! I looked at him like he was crazy. Then he shouted again very angrily GET OUT. Since I'm alone in a strange land, I didn't argue. I got the hell out.

Fortunately within a few minutes I saw my host and his party. They were so gracious and welcoming that they immediately erased the harsh treatment at the airport.

The flight . . .

My flight intinerary consisted of flying from (1)San Francisco to Washington, DC, (2)Washington DC to Brussels, Beligium, and from (3)Brussels to Yaounde, Cameroon.

(1) SFO to Washington Dulles was miserable. I had the middle seat and the gentleman sitting in the window seat was rather large. So I was squeezed in from his side. Although the window seat guy wasn't middle eastern, hekept reading a lot of arabic text. I didn't want to be paranoid, but I have to admit I was concerned. He kept getting up and wanting to stand. I pondered whether I should have said something to the flight attendant, but again I didn't want to start anything. I figured he might have needed to stand for circulation. Obviously he wasn't a terrorist since I'm writing now :-)
(2) Washington DC to Brussels was decent. It had the potential to be miserable because the woman in the seat in front me was rather large. Everytime she reclined, the seats smashed against my knee. I didn't want to say anything because I feared it might cause her embarrasment. Fortunately the flight wasn't full and I was able to change seats and spread out. I worked a little on my presentation, but slept most of the way. I fascinated to look at the map and see that I was flying over the ocean. I was particularly excited to see us flying over Ireland and England enroute to Belgium. I've only traveled vicariously through others. It was nice that it was ME for a change.
(3)Brussels to Yaounde was the most interesting for me. I would say 99% of the passengers were African. I've never been on a plane where the majority of passengers were people of color! The Belgium flight staff was very nice and geniune. They didn't have that attitude I encounter in the states. They didn't act like they were stuck with a crappy assignment. They didn't have an attitude like I wish I were anywhere else but here or I'm only tolerating this because I want to keep my job. They provided genuinely great service. And I have to admit it was a challenging flight. They were lots of crying babies and few dissatified passengers because of seating arrangement problems. But the staff was courteous and professional. Too bad I had to go to Europe and experience that.

I'm here!!!!!

Yes, I can't believe it, but after all these months of planning I am here in Cameroon. It is a LOVELY place. The rolling hills and the way the houses sit on them remind me of San Francisco.

The weather is quite pleasant. It is not as humid as I thought it would be, considering it is the rainy season. So far I don't need a jacket. I slept with the window open and I never became chilly. Nor did it become hot enough for me to turn on the fan. Today has been overcast. It seems as if it might rain but it has not. And again surprisingly it is not humid.

Happy birthday to me!

Sounds like I'm complaining, but it's just STRESS

The workshops and the press junket are a wonderful opportunity. I am very honored to be asked. I only hope I deliver with the highest quality. Plus, I really hope it helps CITEC generate good publicity. I want Cameroon to be known for technology in the same way India is.

They are taking a chance on me. They really don't know if I'm qualified to deliver these workshops. Fortunately, I am qualified and I'm going to give them the best
I have :-)

Ok, I get a chance to relax . . .

CAMBCITEC Yaounde
Hi BeLinda,
Thanks for everything. We will make your visit as relaxing as possible.

1. In fact ALL mornings from 23rd July to 27th July we will take you to touristic sites around Yaounde

2. The workshops and TV presentations are in the evening.

3. Everyday from 12 pm to 5pm is lunch and rest rest

4. From 28th to 3rd August is travel out of Yaounde to Belo and other places.

We shall work out the details when you arrive on Friday

Regards

Martin

Cameroon won't be a vacation, deux . . .

So not only do I have to conduct the workshops, but I'll be on a press junket! There will be four workshops on communications strategies on how to initiate, manage, and close a project. And I think I might be doing one on technical writing, although from the email that might be reserved for talking about it as a career.

I'm still not quite sure what I'll be doing with my other host, BEDERUP. I know I'll be meeting with villagers in the region and videotaping their ceremonial dances. I hope that's the extent of it. I have a feeling after the CITEC experience I'll be exhausted.

The next time I correspond with CITEC I am going to ask them whether I'll have SOME TIME for sightseeing, relaxing, and being a tourist :-)

Good luck to me. I better be feeling well, eh?!

Cameroon won't be a vacation . . .

Typical of my life, I won't be relaxing in Cameroon. These folks have plans for me. CITEC wants me to do a series of workshops on communication strategies in project management. I still haven't completed my power point slides! Plus, check out this email:

CAMBCITEC Yaounde
Jul 12
Hi BeLinda,
Good day.
Just to inform you that we intend
1. to invite not only students for your workshops but also people in responsible positions in the different Ministries and organizations. This will help us also to publicize the CENTRE. In fact the list has been compiled and should be sent out on Monday16 July 2007.
2. to use your slides to produce handouts to participants. This we can do on Saturday 21 July 2007 with the CENTRE facilities in preparation for Monday 23 July.I hope that the slides are in Power point format
3. to use your visit to the School to advertise and expose the SCHOOL. to the Cameroonian public. This we will do by requesting you to kindly accept to appear on some programs in our local RADIO and TELEVISION to talk about the workshops and CITEC. For instance there is a program "choosing your career" which can be very appropriate, and here you can talk about technical writing as a career.

I will contact the Radio and Television only after your
confirmation that the idea is acceptable.

Thanks for your usual understanding and see you on Friday next week

Martin.

The time is almost here . . .

Well after six months of planning, I'll be in leaving for Cameroon Thursday! So much has been going on that I haven't been able to update the blog as often as I want. In addition to finishing up projects at my full-time job, I was teaching a summer school class at a local university. I've also inherited a potentially lucrative project from a friend AND I've been working on a slide presentation for CITEC--more about that in another blog post. And lastly, I've been challenged physically--but not to the extent that I'm reconsidering the trip. I'm going--even if they have to wheelchair me to the airport :-)

So here's a checklist of accomplishments:
**Visa
**Video camera and accessories. (My tripod doesn't match the camera but I can find a workaround)
**Safety due diligence (inquires/assurances about where I'll, how to stay safe, registration with the embassy)
**Safety items (concealed money containers, personal alarms, etc.)
**Packing (mostly done, need a few more personal items)
**Vaccinations (shots completed; will start taking malaria medicine two days before departure)
**Language (know a FEW essential French phrases)
**Personal appearance ( trip to the hair stylist and makeup purchases today)
**Meds

Houston, we're 98% clear for take off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No computers from my company for CITEC . . .

I won't mention the name of this well-known entertainment company, but they don't have the process setup to make the contribution. I find this extremely disappointing. But I will focus my efforts on finding other alternatives. Already asking people about it and have received some good suggestions. I'll find a way to get them equipment.

Africa lags behind in technology development. I'd like to help in my own small way to change that. I have a pan-African view. I believe African-Americans could make better progress if we had a stronger, viable motherland. Things are not going well for us now, especially in this era of right-wing dominance. It seem hopeless. But we can't give up hope. We all must do what we can in our own small or large way. My work in Africa is my ripple in the pond . . .

Remaining tasks

Now I need to shop for luggage and clothes. I don't plan on spending too much money on clothes. (I've spent quite a bit already!!!) I just want to buy light comfortable outfits. Living in San Francisco doesn't require lite weight clothes. It's always chilly here! I abandoned summer clothes when I left Atlanta.

A couple of my friend suggest I buy a 'giant' backpack for travel. I've seen them. I think it's a good idea, but I have to make sure it doesn't hurt my back carrying it around. I might have to take two bags anyway because I have a feeling I'll be bringing back lots of souvenirs. But I guess I could go there with one bag and buy any additional bags while I'm there. Yeah, that makes better sense.

The countdown begins!!!

Wow, I've been writing about this project for almost six months and now I'm DAYS away from my departure.

I've taken all my vaccinations and submitted the paperwork for my visa. I should be picking the visa up this week or next week for sure.

I picked up all my meds for the trip--hopefully I won't have to use them!

I've been shooting B-roll footage with the camera. It's a safe way to learn how to operate the camera. I still can shoot some good shots! Just need to get an extra battery and a hard carrying case.

I talked with my contact at BERUDEP. He said the villagers are anxious to appear in the documentary. They plan to put on a performance. How thrilling. I have to make sure I get it all recorded. Also he wants me to document the plight of the people from the burnt out village. I hope I can get someone to see it and generate interest to help them.

I've been having interesting conversations with CITEC. The Director wants me to present four workshops with each being two hours long. What a challenge, but I'm willing to meet it. The topics mainly focus on project management. I feel more comfortable with writing, since those are the classes I teach. But project management is an intricate part of generating technical documentation so I'll design my presentation from that unique perspective.

My father surprised me by expressing serious concerns about my trip. He's concerned about my safety as a woman traveling alone. I admit I understand his concern and it did affect me. There was a moment I ALMOST changed my mind. But I talked with my contacts and expressed how I was feeling. The more I questioned them, the better I felt. I also took the normal precautions--registered with the embassy and bought self-defense products such as personal alarms. I've also asked my brother to call and check things out.

I listen to my French tape EVERY night. I won't be able to speak French fluently by any stretch of the imagination, but I will recognize and be able to say the few French phrases on the tape :-)

Been away, but I've been productive . . .

Wow, haven't updated the blog for a few weeks, so let's get started.

1) Got the camera, a Panasonic NV-GS250. I was able to get a sweet deal on it on Amazon .com

2) Talked extensively with BEDERUP and CAMBCITEC. So I'll stay with CAMBCITEC for most of the trip in Yaounde. They want me to teach some Microsoft Office skills and anything else I can handle. I was also told that they want me to make public appearances in the city--like a celebrity :-) I have to think about what I want to talk about. That should be fun. Normally that would make me nervous, but since I've been teaching, my fear of public speaking isn't that great. I'll spend a few days with BEDERUP. They're disappointed that I changed my plans from staying with them my entire trip. But I really think for this first trip I should stay in the city primarily.

3) I've asked my company to donate their old computers to CAMBCITEC. They are checking with finance and legal. Hope it works out. BEDERUP wants me to bring or send books. The shipping rate is very expensive. Gotta figure out a way to do it affordably.

4) Cameroon is an English/French speaking country. A lot of the people speak English so I shouldn't have a hard time. But just in case I'm learning a few key French phrases in case I have to communicate with non English speakers. Of course there are native languages but there's no way I can learn ANY of them before I get there :-)

5) STILL NEED TO GET MY VISA. Time is growing short. The only thing left is my vaccination. I'm just going to have to do that THIS WEEK!!!

There's so much more, but I'll stop for now and share more later this week.

That darn documentary . . .

Still haven't begun shooting my video on preparing for the trip. Between my illness and my producing partner being incredibly busy, I haven't been able to start. And I still haven't purchased the camera!

However, I've been feeling much better lately, which encourages me not to postpone the trip and start recording some footage on getting prepared. My producing partner is still swamped so another good friend has offered to help me shoot until he's available. So now I'm going online to find an affordable camera. I HOPE within the next few days I'll post details about my new camera.

You know while I have some downtime, it might be good to shop for items such as hiking shoes and other accessories designed for the trip.

peace . . .

Getting a visa

I'm now working on getting my Visa. So far this is what I have two photos for visa application, bank statements, passport, and travel itinerary. Now I have to get my yellow fever vaccination. When that's done I'll submit all the items to one of the companies I found on the Internet that processes visas.

My main concern is submitting my passport to one of these companies. I know they do this everyday, but I feel it would just be MY luck that they lose my passport. Then I'll have scramble at the last minute to get a replacement. And I just have last minute stress!!!

Hopefully this won't happen and I'll obtain my visa without any problems.

Slight change in plans . . .

Since my last post I've decided not to stay the entire trip with BEDERUP. Instead I'm going to stay most of the time in Yaounde with the CAMBCITEC organization. Why? A day or so after my last post I heard from my CAMBCITEC contact. He offered me free room and board at their facilities. Although I've already paid for my lodgings in BEDERUP, I thought about the offer. They are located in the capitol city, which means better access to amenities such as bottled water and better internet access. My kidney issues require a large intake of water. I worried being out in the bush with BEDERUP that getting bottled water might be a problem. Also being out from hospitals might be a problem. (Although I'm REALLY not that worried about being hospitalized. I've been doing much better lately. Good for me :) I want to be able to stay in touch with family while I'm there. With BEDERUP, communication might be more of a challenge.

So I took CAMBCITEC up on their offer. I plan to leave CAMBCITEC for a couple of days and visit BEDERUP and offer to do long distance help such as writing proposals and so on for them. If I can arrange it I will try to visit the other organization that was interested in me volunteering with them.

I haven't heard from my BEDERUP contact lately. I'll contact him soon and inform him of my change of plans. I'll tell him to keep my payment for room and board as a charitable contribution, with the exception of the couple of days or so that I will visit with them.

Made my first call to Cameroon

I purchased some international calling cards this morning. I called BEDERUP and asked to speak to my contact there. He wasn't available so I had to speak to a nice woman named Sibdelia. At first she gave me a hard time. But being the charmer that I am (haha) I was able to get her to put her guard down and she was very sweet by the end of the conversation. She wanted me to speak to another person there, but since I've developed a rapport with my contact, I'd rather ask him all my initial questions.

Interestingly the first words I heard were in French. Cameroon has two official languages--French and English. I was momentarily afraid that I'd be talking with French speakers. But when Sibdelia answered she spoke in English. This reminds me that I should learn some key French phrases for the French speakers I might encounter.

I missed my contact so I'll keep calling until I eventually reach him. The phone contact makes this more real than ever!!!

Willing documentary participants from the village

My contact in Cameroon and I had a nice email chat today. He told me some widows in the village looked forward to meeting with me and participating in the documentary. I'm very pleased to hear this. I hope I meet others there who are willing to talk and be recorded.

He also talked again about the devastation in the Mbessa village. He's going to send pictures. I hope to share them with someone who can bring attention to the situation. Although Cameroon on a grand scale is a peaceful African country, they suffer from internal disputes like any other country. I hope to learn more about this. For all I know this could be a potential Darfur or Rwanda. If so, it is critical to intervene now before it explodes to a greater conflict. Here is an excerpt from our chat:

[Excerpt]
11:24 AM GM: Hello BeLinda
How are you??
me: How are you!!! I meant to call you this weekend. I was going to use the number on the website. Is that OK??
11:25 AM GM: I have been talking about you to a group of widows[
Yeah but I will have to charge my phone as it ran out of charges
11:26 AM me: Is it a mobile phone?
11:27 AM GM: yep,..,but it fix on one corner of the office
me: what would be a good day to call you this week or next week?
GM: as the network coverage is on spoted areas here
11:28 AM Thursday will be great
me: Will I be able to use my mobile phone there this summer?
OK, I will call you using the numbers on the website Thursday.
GM: yeah
me: Any particular time? I want to account for our time difference.
11:29 AM Are the widows from the village that was burned down??
GM: we could fix it for 6 pm my time
11:30 AM it is 7;30 pm here now
no
me: OK, that'll work.
GM: they were from a neighboring village call Njinikom
11:31 AM I told them they will be receiving a new American Volunteer this time who is of their color
11:32 AM I told them your name,..,and they were excited about the news,..,I also told them that you will be doing a documentary
11:33 AM me: That's wonderful. I'm anxious to meet them and to hear their stories about their lives. And I hope they don't mind me sharing my life here in San Francisco.
11:34 AM GM: they will be so happy and welcoming
We have a program with widows where they come in and learn how to use medicinal plants for health remedies..,
Widows are a set of disadvantage group in the community as women have problems with land inheritance issues
Given it is
[Excerpt]
Question; I can send you pictures of the fire incident?? are you still interested helping victims
me: Oh yes, sure. I've been expecting you to do so. If you don't mind I'll pass it along to other people. Perhaps we can draw some attention to it.
11:55 AM GM: so we are gathering cloths and food supplies
Ok,..,I'ms so happy to hear ,..,,yeah pass it on to any sympathizer

11:56 AM GM: I will be here later
have enjoyed talking to you
me: OK, I'm going to lunch now. We can discuss this more during our conversation Thursday.---Peace . . . .
GM: wish you a great day,..,.,..,

Invitation letter from BEDERUP is here

Right after I published the previous post, I checked my email and discovered my invitation letter.

So I guess I gotta go now :-)

I'll contact the other groups and let them know officially that I'm committed to BEDERUP. And I'm calling BEDERUP tomorrow to acknowledge receipt and have a frank conversation about my health. I want them to know the truth. At first I wanted to hide it so they wouldn't reject me. But now I feel I need to discuss it so I can manage myself while I'm there. I'll let them know my need for water. They also need to know I don't eat meat. Animal protein isn't good for me and I want them to know it so no one is offended when I have to refuse. I'm not sure if being a vegetarian insults them culturally. Probably not, but you never know and the only way to know is to ask!

I'm excited and happy. Now I need to focus on feeling well and starting a video shooting schedule to document this.

Very interesting opinions from friends

I have friends who are concerned about me going on the trip, especially in reference to my health. As I've noted in a previous post I have a chronic kidney ailment. Many of my days for the past year or so have been agonizing. Yet, I keep moving on the best I can with the hopes I can conquer it or at the very least manage it effectively.

My friends see me daily and know how I suffer. Since it's already mid-April and I haven't progressed as much as I had hoped by now, they are urging me to postpone this trip until next year.

I have to admit I've had these thoughts too. I don't want to be a burden on my hosts or for that matter to myself. For example, I need to drink almost a gallon of water a day to feel good. I need water like a diabetic needs insulin. Will I be able to get that much clean water each day? I hope I'm not being ignorant by wondering about this. However, since we'll be in a remote village I have to ask. They may be offended that I think they might not have clean drinking water. I base this concern because of the limited press coverage of Africa. We in the US probably only hear all the bad stuff--droughts, famines, wars, etc. Not all locations in Africa may not have this problem.

I'm optimistic. I still believe BeLinda can do anything she sets her mind to do. But admittedly my kidneys and I don't see eye-to-eye on this. So I've decided to ask my doctor's opinion about it. I've also decided to monitor the month of June. If I can have at least 90% of that month with no incidents of pain and fatigue, then I'll feel more confident in going. If not, I'll postpone until 2008.

Life can never be simple. But I guess that's what makes life interesting . . .

Very simple solution . . .

I contacted CAMBIETEC and HINT and informed them that will contact them in a couple of weeks of what I might be able to contribute to them.

How simple was that!? Instead of pondering and stressing over how to juggle the organizations, I should have simply contacted them and told them I needed more time.

Duh!!

I don't know about you, but I have a tendency to make situations more difficult than they have to be. You'd think by now I would know better. After all life is hard enough. There are some things you absolutely have no control. HOwever, some instances in life you can control and when you can, you should.

30th Anniversary of the mini-series ROOTS

As I was channel surfing I noticed TV1 is showing ROOTS to honor its 30th anniversary. You know that caught my attention! I'm going to Africa to get in touch with my roots this year--how ironically timely.

The most interesting thing about it is how old it makes me feel. I remember when ROOTS debuted back in 1977. I was a sophomore in college! Thirty years later I now have a daughter who's a freshman in college.(Yes, Airwolf, now you know my age:-) Seems like yesterday we were huddled in the college dorm absorbing every episode. And believe me it was really interesting to watch this in the mid-seventies at my Mississippi, predominantly white college campus. To describe that would take it's own blog site--hahaha.

Back then I was a carefree college student, totally absorbed in my life. I THOUGHT I had problems then, but little did I know what real problems would be later in life!

A few of my friends who were watching back then are not on the earthly plane anymore. I'm glad I made it to celebrate the 30th anniversary. Hope I'm around for the 60th anniversary . . . .

OK, I guess I'm wrong . . .

I haven't contacted the other groups. It occurs to me that I haven't received the formal invitation letter I was promised from BEDERUP. Until I get it, I wonder if I should let the other groups go?

I don't doubt that BEDERUP won't send the invitation. I've already wired my reservation fee to them. They have received and acknowledged it. And they've said they're going to send the formal invitation. But from life experience it seems it's never wise to let one opportunity go until you secure another one--sort of like don't quit your job until you have another one :-)

It's early April and I'm not scheduled to be in Africa until mid-July. Seems like I won't be dishonorable if I wait a few more days until I get the formal invitation.

Probably making this too hard. I have a tendency to do that!!

Informing the other groups that I'm not coming . . .

I've made the decision to join BEDERUP this summer, but I've yet to inform the other groups of my decision. And I must tell them today. I don't know why I'm 'stressing' over it. After all it's not like I'm an Oprah Winfrey, a sister with money and star power. I'm just a little ole' tech writer in San Francisco with no influence and little money in the grand scheme of things.

But I'm connected to these people by blood. I feel an obligation to care and help in whatever way I can. I suppose my dilemma centers on wanting to help them all, which is impossible. If I had a year off from work I'd find a way to spend time with each group, but that isn't the case.

Although I can't be with each group personally, I will offer to be a go-between for any contacts they want to make here. Perhaps I can help them find organizations here who'll donate time and money on their efforts. And maybe one day I'll get around to spending time with them all.

Vacation????

My trip to Cameroon won't be a vacation in the typical going somewhere and lounging on the beach. (I'll get to that later hopefully!!)

I'll be assigned writing duties for different projects, such as proposals, brochures, and so on. One of the projects will be to help in some way to assist the villagers who were rendered homeless in Mbessa, a village in Belo Subdivision following a land conflict with Oku. Read more ...

Screw the gym, I'd rather do yoga

In one of my earlier posts, I stated all the things I needed to do (Tuesday, January 23, 2007) to prepare for Cameroon. One of those things is to get in better physical shape. At the time of the posting, I had accepted a 10-day trial membership with 24 Hour Fitness. It was my intent to join after the trial. But I went through a bout of illness and never got around to paying for the membership.

During my struggle of getting better it occurred to me that I should do yoga to get in shape instead of working out in a gym. First of all, I HATE gyms. I can't take running, biking, and sweating in a confined space with strangers, most of whom are there to pick up someone. I have no problem with picking up someone, but not when and where I'm working out. That's just like making the moves on someone while you're putting on your makeup!

Yoga is more introspective. You can be around a bunch of strangers, but you focus on your spiritual as well as physical development. You're encouraged not to focus on what others do around you. Now don't get me wrong, I'm sure yoga studios are probably hotbeds for pickups, but it's more subtle. With yoga, I can develop muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance without lifting heavy steel objects. Not to mention it's a perfect vehicle for restorative activity for a less than optimum body. Yoga allows me to BREATHE.

So the bottomline FOR ME is--- yoga yes, gym no.

Why I chose BEDERUP

For the one or two of you who follow this blog, you know that I've contacted several charitable organizations in Cameroon and offered my services to them while visiting. Four groups responded:
REPERID
Kumbo, Cameroon, Northwest province

BERUDEP
Belo, Cameroon, Northwest province

HINT
Buea, Cameron, Southwest province

CITEC
Yaounde, Cameroon, Central province

All had their distinct advantages and disadvantages, but I chose BEDERUP for the following reasons:
1. This organization is located EXACTLY where the DNA test describes my origins, the Tikar tribes from the Northwest province. Obviously this is the most desirable place to explore my background.
2. Godwin Mahwoh, the director, made the most personal connection. If you look back on previous posts, he sent pictures from previous volunteers. In his email communication he has made attempts to create a personal connection for me. He went into great detail about the area. He's sent me articles on the problems the villagers face and has made me sympathetic to their plight.
2. The BEDERUP website provided the most comprehensive information on it's program--particularly with volunteers. All the information I need is on the website. It gives me a feeling of assurance that this is a well organized group and I'll feel safe.
3. The other groups communicate much less with me. And when they do, they focus on what I can provide for them, but seldom take the time to talk about what the experience can offer me. This is a mutual situation. We both get something. With the others I'm worried I might not bring enough "gifts" (all volunteers must bring gifts). I have no problem with taking gifts. I WANT to give. But I want to feel welcomed as a sister too. I got that feeling more with BEDERUP. Don't get me wrong, BEDERUP has expectations of me too, but I've developed a sense of caring for them.

Next posts: Wire transfer of funds to hold a spot at BEDERUP; change in video production schedule plans, change in workout regimen to get ready for the trip . . .

Explanation for long post absence

Ok, I hope I'm back posting consistently. I've never mentioned it before, but I deal with a chronic kidney ailment. I never wrote about it on the blog because I wanted a place/world/universe where it doesn't exist. Also, if the organizations who've invited me to come were to know about this they might be hesitant to allow me entry. This ailment already interferes with so many other aspects of my life. I didn't want it to be the cause of preventing me from conducting this trip the in the manner I want.

However, I decided to write about it because it is a major factor in this trip. The ailment generates constant pain, which interferes with my daily routine. Each day I'm concerned that I won't have the energy to make this trip. Yet, it motivates me to strive harder to find a solution to end this ailment, and if I can't end it at least I can manage it and keep on with my life.

Hopefully, the next post on this subject will be the last. I hope I'll be expressing how happy I am that I've overcome it or manage it well. I refuse to let it prevent me from going on this trip and having the marvelous time I deserve.

Hope and faith . . .

And the winner is . . .

BERUDEP!!!!

I've selected BERUDEP as the organization with whom I'm going to volunteer. I will explain why in my next post.

My apologies to the one or two people who read this blog. I've been under the weather and swamped with work, but I've always been on the case with Project Cameroon. In the next few days I will tell of all the progress going on with the project. I'm excited...........................................................

New language for divided Cameroon

Teachers in Cameroon are concerned that the new language frananglais - a mixture of French, English and Creole - is affecting the way students speak and write the country's two official languages. Read more . . .

Wonder in 50 years if the United States will adopt Spanglish as its official language? :-)

Cameroon: Pro-Independence Group Silenced

About 20 members of an Anglophone pro-independence group in Cameroon have been jailed for the past month without charge, reflecting what their lawyers say is the latest effort to silence government critics without providing due process. Read more . . .

Background information:
The League of Nations in 1922 divided Cameroon into two zones, one administered by France and the other by the United Kingdom. The French side won independence in 1960 but the Anglophone side had to choose between being absorbed into Nigeria or into the new French-speaking Cameroon. Northern Cameroon chose Nigeria while Southern Cameroon joined French-speaking Cameroon in 1961.

Little by little, the autonomy of Southern Cameroon eroded until it its dissolution in 1972 with the formation of a centralized state. As time passed, Anglophone Cameroonians felt increasingly marginalized, according to human rights groups.

Weighing my options: CAMBCITEC (3)

Here is an email from CAMBCITEC. I've REALLY got to make a decision!

Hello BeLinda,
Greetings from CITEC and Cameroon. Both students and staff are waiting for your arrival in July. we also intend to organize IT sensitization classes for High School students during the summer holidays.But your presentations are aimed at a more mature group of participants,

What about our twining project?. Have you had any feedback from any interested school.organization?

Regards

Professor XXX

Weighing my options: BERUDEP(4)

The folks at BERUDEP sent some photos taken while another US volunteer was there. Seems like they heard me say I have to make a decision :-) ENJOY . . .

I've been away, but productive

Haven't posted in a few days, but I've still been busy working on this project.

A couple of days ago I had a meeting with a Dolby colleague who manages video/audio production. He allowed me to ask him questions about the type of video equipment I should rent/purchase. He provided great information that will help me narrow further research and make some initial decisions. In a later post I'll elaborate on the specs about the equipment.

I'm going to have to buy a camera. I think it would be too expensive to rent a camera while I'm in Cameroon. I might be able to delay purchase by renting while I'm still in San Francisco. Then again the time saved and convenience of a owning a camera might outweigh financial considerations. More research is needed. Stay tuned.

I'm still behind on getting my Visa forms submitted. Originally I was supposed to submit it by Feb. 1, then Feb. 15, now I'll aim for March 1. Wish me luck!!!

I had a follow-up from BERUDEP. They have some ideas about some projects. I need to make a decision. I can't volunteer for all the groups I contacted. I think it is only fair that I decide now so I can focus on the organization and nurture a relationship.

So I'll make a decision by next weekend. I wish I had a lot of readers. I would take a poll. But as usual, I'll make the decision myself :-)

Another thing I need to make happen---start shooting the video. I guess I'd better make a decision about a camera. Next weekend perhaps? The sooner the better.

Weighing my options: BERUDEP(3)

FINALLY heard back from BERUDEP. There was a reasonable explanation!
Check out the responses to my questions about culture. Very interesting . . .


Dear Belinda,

Thank you so much for getting back to me and talking about
our program here to your Pastor friend. I'm sorry I didnt get back to you in time ,I had serious problems with my yahoo acoount which was sending out viruses to all the email addresses in my email list.
I just managed to change to gmail.

Thank you once more for your effort in trying to link us up with Church groups as possible as you can.

Yeah there will be some one to pick you up from Yaounde to Belo.

Writing Project.
The first few days you will be given some orientation and introduction to all aspects of our programs.
Then you will spend just a few (2-3)hours in the office. You will have to spend most your day in the field i.e in the rural communities with which we work. Interviewing groups and individual about our projects and returning to the office to do a write up on a computer.
Is it possible for you to come with your laptop??? if you can find friends or relatives who can donate some office stationaries and old laptops then our organization will greatly appreciate it.

Sightseeing.
You shall be able to see as much as your time permits.
We give no restrictions but we seat down and negotiate and give guides to our volunteers.

Internet Connection.
Yeah there is internet connection in Belo and it is approximately 1 dollar an hour.

Documentary.
In some parts of Cameroon people find filming them uncomfortable.Yeah BERUDEP staff will be ok with you filming.

We shall also help you out in areas where people are hostile to a stranger filming them.

Dressing.
Crossing legs by younger people is seriously considered a very bad and rude behaviour. You can put on your jeans provided is long enough not to expose those parts which people consider private.

Funding Source.
Please have a look at our website .
Most of our funding comes from Private individuals and former volunteers.

Re; Are you associated with any organizations that the US might deem "questionable"?
NO NO NO NO NON NO NO
Cameroon is quite safe. In fact is one of the safest countries to travel in the world.

Political
No political concerns.

Weather.
July is at the middle of Rainy season.
Expect sunny mornings, and steady rainy afternoons.

Gender,
You shall be quite safe as you will always be working with people. The community people are very welcoming and protective of strangers.
White ladies can sometimes attract the attention of young men who will be making some ssssip sound. But in any case they are not harmful.
You can find out from any of our former volunteers. Will you like any contact of our former female volunteer.

Belinda keep all your questions and concerns coming.

While waiting to hear from you my regards and God's blessings through Christ Jesus.
GM

P.S: Sorry for not getting back to you in time. It wouldn't repeat
itself again.

Weighing my options: CAMBCITEC (2)

My response to CAMBCITEC:

Greetings Professor XXXX,
My brother won't be able to join me on this trip this year. Unfortunately, his schedule won't permit it this year. He extends his profound regrets. I think what you're proposing is a great idea. I am forwarding your idea to several people and I am awaiting responses---most notably San Francisco State. I'm also exploring possibilities with other schools and tech companies.

I will keep you posted.

BeLinda Nichols

Another item for my "to do" list . . .

Cameroon has two official languages, French and English. I think I've got a good grasp of English, so I'd better pick up a little conversational French.

It's foolish to think I could learn the French language in less than six months. But I could learn some key phrases such as "Where can I go to get some food?" or "Where's the bathroom?" Not glamorous conversation, but nevertheless important!!!

Weighing my options: CAMBCITEC

Before I got a chance to send my questions to CAMBCITEC,the director sent to me the email below. After reading it, you'll see I have two organizations asking me to make a commitment to a work assignment. I was hoping not to be at this stage of the game so soon. I wanted more time to explore other opportunities without having to stall. I guess I could always opt to be direct and state I'm exploring other organizations before making a decision. Then again, perhaps weighing options at a leisurely pace is unfair to these organizations. They have important work and they probably need to lock up their resources quickly to fill in gaps that are desperately needed.

(By the way, I mentioned I would ask my brother, a hardware engineer, to consider accompanying me. CAMBCITEC seems to assume my brother is confirmed to come. I need to let them know he won't be joining me.)

Decisions, decisions . . . . .

Dear BeLinda,
I am preparing the seminar documents for when you and your brother will be here in the summer. I will send the draft to you when it is finished so that you react and we finalise it but I think it should not be long since you are definitely going to have other things to do. A one-day seminar should be OK, one person presenting and holding workshops in the morning and the other in the afternoon.

BeLinda , I am also interested in a twining arrangement between CITEC and a school / Organisation in IT in San Francisco or other State. Would be grateful if you can link me up.

The arrangement can begin by us inviting those American colleagues for them to come and see what we are doing

Definitely your coming will be the begining of that link

BACK TO YOUR COMING
I propose that generally the seminar should center on three main issues:
1 Software applications in Education, Research, Business and Finances
2 The writing of computer technical documents
3 Guidlines for the purchase of hardware for different uses
Discuss with your brother and tell me. If we agree you will then begin to work out the details.

Please give me your phone number(s) so that I can call you.
Mine are +237 XXX XX XX
+ 237 XXX XX XX

I do not know how many hours we are ahead of you but I know that my children in XX are 7 hours ahead of us here in Cameroon.

Director of CITEC

Chinese influence in Cameroon....

Chinese President Hu Jintao pledged nearly $100 million in grants and soft loans to Cameroon on Wednesday as he kicked off his latest tour of Africa, a growing supplier of oil and raw materials for his country. Read more . . .

Weighing my options: HINT(3)

I'm really feeling GOOD about HINT. They are responding in a way that makes me feel extremely comfortable with them. They sent a spreadsheet that breaks down my cost while I'm there. It is very useful information.

I'm tempted to select HINT already, but it makes sense to examine the others. So that will be my next task.

Oh well . . .

Still no word from BERUDEP.

I've been a little under the weather the last few days, so I haven't sent my questions to REPERID and CITEC. I'll get on that within the next 48 hours.

I'm also behind in my personal deadline of Feb. 1 to submit the paperwork for my Visa. I'll revise my target date to Feb.16.

AG and I need to discuss target dates to start shooting the documentary.

Time to get busy . . .

China expresses strong economic interest in Africa

Chinese President Hu Jintao has arrived in Cameroon on the first stage of an eight-nation Africa tour to forge political and economic ties with the continent. Read more. . .

Weighing my options: HINT(2)

I heard from HINT this morning. TG responded to my questions. I'm beginning to get a good feeling about this organization. So far it's the only one that I've found volunteer (favorable) descriptions and information on TG and his ministry. I haven't noted anything that tinges my "spidey senses". Seems like great people and a great organization. I think it would be great if I affiliated with them. And if for some reason I choose another organization, I'll make myself available to volunteer to write proposal for them offsite.

I will send the questions to the other remaining groups today and wait for their responses. And surprisingly still no word from BEDUREP. At the beginning of this exercise, it was the organization I most thought would be the best. But it is still too early to judge I suppose.

Here's the HINT response:

Hi Belinda,

I will try to answer your questions as best as I can. See below for
answers in CAPS. Your questions are OK and not insulting in any way.

Quoting BeLinda <xxx@gmail.com>:

> TG, I hope this email finds you well and happy! I have quite a few
> questions to ask about my volunteering with your organization. Some of my
> questions are pretty direct, so let me say in advance I don't mean to be
> insulting in ANY WAY. I feel you're an honorable man. . It's just that this is a
> big venture for me and I need to understand every aspect. Take care. I hope
> to hear from you soon. God bless you, your family, and your
> work.----BeLinda.
>
>
> - I just want to confirm that you can have someone to meet me at the
> Yaounde airport and accompany me to Buea. Will this require a fee? If so,
> how much (in American dollars)? Please give me a breakdown of all possible
> expenses?

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO LAND IN YAOUNDE AND NOT DOUALA.? DOUALA IS ONLY 1
HOUR DRIVE FROM BUEA. IF YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR FINAL DESTINATION THAT
WILL BE FINE AND WILL COST MUCH LESS. IF AFTER ALL YOU CANNOT CHANGE
FINAL DESTINATION THEN WE WILL MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO PICK YOU UP FROM
YAOUNDE. BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT, IT WILL COST ABOUT $20 AND IF WE ARE
HIRING A CAR, IT WILL COST ABOUT $80 TO GET TO BUEA. WHEN IS YOUR
ARRIVAL TIME? I WILL LET YOU HAVE A MORE DETAILED COST BREAKDOWN SOON.
>
> - What types of writing projects will I possibly be assigned? Will I

> be working in an office?

YOUR TIME WITH US IS QUITE SHORT EVEN THOUGH I KNOW YOU WILL BE ABLE
TO DO SOMETHING FOR US. I THINK IT WILL RATHER BE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR
US TO SEE HOW WE CAN WORK TOGETHER IN THE FUTURE. 2 WEEKS IS REALLY
SHORT TIME. I WAS GOING TO SUGGEST THAT SINCE YOUR TIME WITH US IS
SHORT, WE CAN ALREADY START TO WORK ONLINE BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. WE NEED
PROPOSALS FOR A NUMBER OF PROJECTS INCLUDING: SETTING UP A NURSERY &
PRIMARY SCHOOL, SHIPPING AND DISTRIBUTING COMPUTERS TO SCHOOLS,
SETTING UP A SCHOOL COMMUNITY LIBRARY, SETTING UP A HEALTH CENTRE, ...
OF ALL THESE I THINK WE CAN WORK ON A PROPOSAL FOR THE NURSERY AND
PRIMARY SCHOOL. OUR OFFICE IS EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET.
YOU WILL HAVE A COMPUTER OF YOUR OWN AND ONLY MAKE A FREE WILL
DONATION TO HELP TOWARDS INTERNET COST.
>
> - How will I be able to see other parts of Cameroon? And what parts

> will I be able to see? For example will the sightseeing be restricted to
> Buea and the immediate surrounding areas?

> WE WILL HAVE TO HIRE A CAR FOR USE WHEN VISITING SOME SITE. HOPELY
> WE WILL VISIT THE LIMBE BOTANIC GARDEN, BAKINGGILI MAGMA MOUNT, AND
> POSSIBLY KORUP NATIONAL PART (OUT OF BUEA BUT STILL WITHIN SOUTH
> WEST PROVINCE)

>
> - Is Internet access easily available? I'd like to use Skype to
> contact friends and family. What's the cost of Internet connection (in
> American dollars)?

> YOU WILL USE INTERNET IN OUT OFFICE AND DONATE FREELY. THAT MEANS
> YOU ARE FREE TO USE AND NOT DONATE.
>
> - I'm planning to do a video documentary about my trip and

> experiences. I plan to submit to film festivals and media outlets
> in the US.
> If accepted by them, the exposure will be great for your cause. Will people
> find it uncomfortable being filmed? Will you and the staff at HINT be
> willing to be interviewed for the documentary?

> THAT WILL BE GREAT AND I AM SURE MANY WILL LIKE TO BE FILMED.
>
> - Are there any cultural difference I should be aware of as an

> American and as a woman? For example, will there be any objections
> if I wear
> pants or blue jeans? I read that Cameroonians consider pointing
> and crossing
> legs when sitting as an insult. Is this true?

> YES SOME OF THESE CUSTOMS ARE STILL IN EFFECT IN THE REMOTE VILLAGES
> BUT IN THE TOWN WHERE WE ARE YOU HARDLY HEAR OF SUCH THINGS. CASUAL
> DRESSING IS OK.

>
> - Where do you principally obtain your funding? Charitable
> organizations? Governmental organizations? Private donations?

> OUR WORK SO FAR HAS BEEN SUPPORTED BY PRIVATE VOLUNTARY SPONTANEOUS
> DONATIONS. IT HAS NOT BEEN VERY EASY GETTING ON WITH THE VERY MEAGRE
> RESOURCES WE HAVE BUT SOME HOW WE HAVE KEPT PROGRESSING. HOPEFULLY,
> WHEN WE HAVE CONCRETE PROPOSALS WE WILL THEN BE ABLE TO APPROACH
> MAJOR DONORS FOR SUPPORT WITH PEOPLE LIKE YOU STANDING BY US AND
> CONNECTING US WITH POTENTIAL DONORS.
>
> - The United States is in a state of paranoia since the 9/11 terrorist

> attacks. Are you associated with any organizations that the US might deem
> "questionable"? I hate to ask this question and don't mean to insult you in
> ANY way. But we live in crazy times here in the US and I wouldn't want this
> trip to haunt me because of some ridiculous Homeland Security misperception
> of your funders.

> WE DO NOT HAVE ANY LINKS WITH ANY TERRORIST-TYPE ORGANISATION EITHER
> HERE AT HOME OR ABROAD. SO YOU DO NOT NEED TO HAVE ANY FEARS.
>
> - Is there anything I need to know about the political climate in your

> area of Cameroon in general so I won't make any diplomatic mistakes? I want
> everyone to like me ;-)

> POLITICALLY CAMEROON IS A VERY CALM COUNTRY IN AFRICA. THERE IS
> NOTHING TO BE WORRIED ABOUT. WE HAVE MULTI-PARTY POLITICS AND ANYONE
> OS FREE TO BE A PART OF ANY POLITICAL PARTY.
>
> - I know July is in the middle of rainy season. Are we talking about

> torrential downpours or just constant steady streams of rain? Can I expect
> to see ANY sunny days?

> THE RAINS GET REALLY HEAVY IN AUGUST WHERE WE SOMETIMES CAN HAVE
> RAINS (JUST STEADY STREAMS) FOR ABOUT A WEEK CONTINUOUSLY. IT WILL
> BE GOOD TO GET TO BOOTS AND RAIN COATS. YOU CAN GET THEM HERE.

>
> - Can you point me to a source that discusses the vegetation in the
> area? Sometimes I suffer from plant and mold allergies. I want to make sure
> if I should bring allergy medication.

YES MOLD IS COMMON IN THE RAINY SEASON ESPECIALLY IS DRESSES HAVE
NOT BEEN WASHED FOR OVER A PERIOD. SOME MOLD ALLERGIES WOULD BE FINE.

> - As a woman traveling alone so far away from home, are there any

> special precautions I should take to ensure my personal safety? Will I be
> around people all the time to ensure safety?

SURE YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE PEOPLE TO GUIDE YOU AROUND WHEREVER YOU GO.
WE TAKE SECURITY OF OUR VOLUNTEERS VERY SERIOUSLY. MANY PEOPLE WILL
WANT TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH YOU WITH THE HOPE OF GETTING SOMETHING
FINANCIAL OR MATERIAL FROM YOU BUT YOU HAVE TO BE CAREFUL NOT TO
ACCEPT EVERY INVITATION OR MAKE UNECESSRY FRIENDS.

HOPE THIS HELPS BELINDA. LET ME KNOW IF YOU STILL HAVE QUESTIONS.
OTHERWISE I WILL LIKE US TO ALREADY START THINKING ABOUT PUTTING
TOGETHER A PROPOSAL FOR THE NURSERY AND PRIMARY SCHOOL PROJECT. WHEN
WE ARE DONE, WE CAN PROCEED TO LOOK FOR FUNDING EVEN BEFORE YOU COME
OVER.

TG

I guess I'd better take my shots seriously . . .

Major malaria carrier identified in Cameroon
A new study has pinpointed the mosquito species responsible for most malaria cases in southwestern Cameroon — an area where little is known about the transmission of the disease.

Weighing my options: HINT

I sent the same set of questions to HINT. I did receive a response within a couple of hours, but it seemed to be a response from my online application on their website. Not sure if the timing of the online application response was coincidental, or the contact responded to my set of email questions with the online application response. So I'll just wait a few days to see if anyone responds directly to the questions.

Interestingly enough, I was able to find some information about HINT via Google searches. I found a couple of online blogs from volunteers. Some posts seem as recent as last week. (here and here)
They are perhaps still there. It seems the HINT contact (TG) is an highly educated minister, with an influential ministry in Buea. The blog postings were very helpful. The volunteers showed pictures of the people. They seem extremely nice and hospitable. I saw pictures of TG's family. Very sweet and adorable. The volunteers never indicated an awful experience.

I hope HINT responds to my questions. It's important in my decision making process that the groups answer the questions. Even though they might find it annoying or insulting, a organization should be prepared to answer the hard/direct questions--if just to share the pride they have in what they do and to show the world (volunteers) you have nothing to fear by coming here. (And yes, I know there are no guarantees to anything, regardless of how much effort goes into providing safety and a great experience!)

BERUDEP and REPERID are my first choices because they are in the northwest province--where the Tikar people originate. I'd be closer to my 'roots'. HINT is located in the southwest province. But I suppose fate ultimately determines where I land. In fact, who knows? It might be an organization not on my original list. I should perhaps do more research and seek out other Cameroonian development organizations, if they exist.

Weighing my options: BERUDEP (2)

I haven't heard back from my contact (GM) at BERUDEP. I'm surprised. He usually responds very quickly. Being a sensitive person, my first inclination is to suspect the slower response stems from GM feeling insulted by the directness of my questions. (Although I think they are perfectly fair questions.) I always want to be 'nice' and not insult or hurt anyone's feelings. So it's easy for me to feel this way. Another part of me--the suspicious cynical part --thinks maybe I hit a nerve by asking so many questions. Suppose BERUDEP is some nefarious undertaking that is using community development as a cover.

However, my intellect says he runs a large organization and has many responsibilities. I posed several questions to him. He probably hasn't had time to respond. I will roll with my intellect and give GM a few days to respond before assuming the worst. In the meantime, I'll pose the same questions to the next organization on my list.

Side note--GM asked about the possibility of African American churches volunteering. I have a friend (DP) who's a minister. I asked him to make some inquires within his denomination. He agreed and has done so. He's just waiting for responses. It would be great if a church would be interested. Let's just hope I hear from BERUDEP again :-)

Weighing my options: BERUDEP

Here are the initial questions I submitted to BEDERUP. I hope Cameroonians don't have a problem with directness :-)

• I just want to confirm that you can have someone to meet me at the Yaounde airport and accompany me to Belo. Will this require a fee? If so, how much (in American dollars)?

• What types of writing projects will I possibly be assigned? Will I be working in an office?

• How will I be able to see other parts of Cameroon? And what parts will I be able to see? For example will the sightseeing be restricted to Belo and the immediate surrounding areas?

• Is Internet access easily available? I'd like to use Skype to contact friends and family. What's the cost of Internet connection (in American dollars)?

• I'm planning to do a video documentary about my trip and experiences. Will people find it uncomfortable being filmed? Will you and the staff at Berudep be willing to be interviewed for the documentary?

• Are there any cultural difference I should be aware of as an American and as a woman? For example, will there be any objections if I wear pants or blue jeans? I read that Cameroonians consider pointing and crossing legs when sitting as an insult. Is this true?

• Where do you principally obtain your funding? Charitable organizations? Governmental organizations? Private donations?

• Is there anything I need to know about the political climate in the northwest province or Cameroon in general so I won't make any diplomatic mistakes? I want everyone to like me ;-)
• Your site is quite thorough about what to bring and wear. I know July is in the middle of rainy season. Are we talking about torrential downpours or just constant steady streams of rain? Can I expect to see any sunny days?
• Can you point me to a source that discusses the vegetation in the area? Sometimes I suffer from plant and mold allergies. I want to make sure if I should bring allergy medication.
• As a woman traveling alone so far away from home, are there any special precautions I should take to ensure my personal safety? Will I be around people all the time to ensure safety?

Stay tuned for the responses . . .