"Grandma" was a 93 year old - who was tending for 8 of her own grand children - due to the death of their parents. In the process she had also taken up caring for about another 7 - for a total of 15 children! She also lived in one of the compounds. We were able visit her - and take in some mealy-meal (used for 'sheema' one of their staples in Africa), capella (dried fish) and beans. When she was presented with these items - she did her 'Happy Dance' - boy she had 'the moves'! The hut that she now did her cooking in - consisting of boards, tarps, sticks etc. was what she used for her primay shelter up till last year. MWB was able to build her a more durable block home with a metal roof. Still small with just 2 bedrooms - but was a palace compared to her previous dwelling! We also got to meet one of her granddaughters and a fairly new great grand daughter - a real cuty! She planted a garden, and just the day before, had a top put onto a hand dug well - so they have easy access to water - and do not have to pay. The well has chlorine put into it daily to make the water be 'safe' - due to various health risks around.
At some point, the older granddaughter will have to take over the care and tending of the children.......
PICS: LUSAKA-Grandma's place
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