The School and Community Build Project Tanzania
The Azar school build was and is big news in Dodoma and while we were there the
community held a marvellous celebration day. This was attended by the Minister
of Education’s representative along with the Regional Commissioner of Dodoma. During the
proceedings they cut a ribbon to mark the beginning of the building
partnership.
There were lots of very different kinds of entertainment from Gogo musicians,
singers and dancers to a wonderful school choir and even Azar’s own brand of singing. We sang an old african song meaning ‘lets all go together with love in our hearts’ and followed this with what became Azar’s anthem ‘We Came to Tanzania’, a song written by Simon. The lyrics (in the margin) pretty much sum up how the team felt about going to and being in such a beautiful country.
After all the music was done we were all presented with gifts of Kangas -
brightly coloured material wraps - and with intricate beaded jewellery. Finally
we were given two live goats. We handed them back to be used in the finally
feast - well, we couldn’t really have flown them home...
At the end we all planted trees which we hope will grow and flourish as much we
hope all our children will in their new school.
We came to Tanzania
we planned for many months
and we travelled from far
We found we love to be here
and we very soon discovered
how beautiful you are
This is a song just to say
‘Asante-Sana’ (thank you)
you know you made us feel so at home
We stand here today and we sing
“Oyez Chisasa”! (traditional cheer)
Thank you for your company
for your Karibuni (welcome)
Even though we’ve only been here a while
we’ve had such a time
when we think about it we’ll always smile
You filled it with your sunshine!
We came to Tanzania
and we found a friendly people
who opened their arms.
Who from the start let us draw near
and with smiling faces
revealed their charm”
This was ended with the final chorus saying -
“It’s a shame this must be Kwaherini (goodbye)”
