Last day with Jubilee Hope

Awoke in Mwanza port. Final Meeting on top deck to which programme director Pastor Samuel came. A lovely gentle, smart, smiley man. Usual format was interrupted by needing to move the boat for a ferry, then a storm so the sides needed to go down….again. When the ferry moved it crashed right into us - no damage and seems to be a normal occurrence. Iziah asked everyone to report on the week. Lots of thanking, including to God. Lovely efforts made by the very shy Anna and Aurelia. Then us again. Hilary made a very eloquent speech and as usual a great effort on her Swahili. I couldn’t match that but I had crocheted a heart for everyone ❤️. Not sure what they’ll do with them! A token for the amazing friendship of everyone. Pastor Samuel spoke at length about the programme and appreciation of the support of the Mzungos. (Our £ is 50% of each trip)
And people left, with chickens , on motorbikes.
The bizarreness is never ending- we were interviewed by a radio then internet channel- both church based. All went well with until I mentioned the Amazon Hope - wrong continent🤔
And our time to leave. Quite emotional leaving the boat and its amazing crew. I’ve truly never worked with such a cohesive team.
Off to Ryan’s Bay Hotel posh hotel- what a contrast.
We had a ‘gloves off’ debrief Iziah. Very few negative points, possibly few suggestions- but everything works so well it’s hard to improve.
Lunch with Pastor Samuel and just as we were about to get in the swimming pool he offered a trip to the new boat MV Lady Jean. A smaller faster vessel, support for Jubilee Hope. Recently arrived from Scotland, in a container. She’s very smart.
As ever the short journey there was interesting with the variety of travel and transport. Chickens on bikes, motorcycles with umbrellas, a cart overfilled of foam mattresses. No hooting and quite ordered.
And back to hotel for a swim. It’s been hard surrounded by water and not able to go in.
Final meal and beer😊 in outside restaurant and a sad goodbye to Hilary and Jean. An amazing pair of enthusiasts, great company. Friends for life.
An early start tomorrow with Mark and home by Sunday am for MR training😊 🎅🏻
What a fantastic adventure.Read more