Orphans day party

Every year at Bana Ba Metsi, during the third term, a christmas party is held for a group of orphans on our side of the river. It is a day where they are invited in to the school to simply have fun and not worry about anything else.

The day started with morning prayers and marimba music, it was obvious that the orphans were still unsure as to what to expect, but they soon relaxed as cake and juice was handed out. The orphans were then divided into small groups before being sent to different activities around the school.

The activities consisted of 6 stations; football, arts and crafts, swimming (which was led by me), a three legged race, face painting and television. In england watching TV for 20 minutes would be considered a standard practise, however for the orphans it turned out to be a real privilege.

After the activities were over, the orphans were then taken to the school recreation hall for an address by the school head master, and the local Kogsi (village chief). Although, in reality the address was just a distraction so that we would have time to dress Justus, the german volunteer, as Santa so that he could hand out presents. We had managed to borrow a cattle slay from the local village so that we could tow him in on the back of the Hilux. It was a good laugh, and the kids were certainly pleased.

The day was concluded with food for all the orphans, students and staff at Bana Ba Metsi. The food included Beef, Chicken, Pig, Goat, Rice, Salad and drinks. A much welcomed change to the usual diet. All in all it was a good day and the kids certainly left happy and full.