We knew several Wahindi in Dodoma, but the suburb we’re living in in Dar is chockers full of Wahindi. So, who are they? Here’s some of what we’re learning. Most simply, the Wahindi are Indian background Tanzanians. Many of them were born in Tanzania and their families have been here for […]
I read a brilliant article the other day about the question, ‘But, is it safe?’ We’re getting this question all the time as we prepare to go back to Tanzania. At one level I think people are probably just asking, ‘is there a war on there?’ because that’s the common portrayal […]
It’s been a recurring question for me sitting in traffic in Dar es Salaam: why do so many Tanzanian cars have a Playboy logo on them? The bunny stickers are very common, even if they aren’t quite as ubiquitous as the Muslim, Christian and soccer signage used on daladalas (often […]
I’ve been reflecting recently on how being in Australia has shown me that I’m more Tanzanian in my parenting that I had thought. When I was in Tanzania, I thought I was quite Australian, so it’s been a discovery for me. If my parenting feels so foreign in Australia, what […]
We were at a community event when someone asked Elliot, ‘Where’s your mum?’ He replied, ‘I don’t know. Where is Mama?’ Sounds like a lost child, right? That’s what the person who found him thought, and fair enough. An announcement was made over the loudspeaker for me. When I heard […]
An mzungu tends to stand out in Tanzania. He dresses practically and comfortably, and that puts most of his clothing at odds with local dress. Trekking gear or travel wear? So dull and baggy. Big, roomy shirts for staying cool? How unpolished. Surf sandals, sneakers, backpacks? All unusual or shabby, […]
I often say to people that Elliot’s a bit of a dream as far as missionary kids go. He’s gregarious and confident. He’s in what is pretty much a foreign country to him (i.e. Australia) but he tackles each new situation with enthusiasm, and each different group of people with […]
Meet Jesus at uni 