Irony of all Ironies

So, the whole point of this program is to get the "authentic experience." That is why we stay in a township, as opposed to a hotel, or a dorm room. How can you truly understand the health issues and problems of South Africans, particularly those in poverty, if you don't have any personal, or primary understanding of that lived experience?

I sat with my mama yesterday to watch the State of the Nation address by Jacob Zuma (South Africa's president). While watching, we couldn't help but discuss pertinent issues. One of those issues was the mater (amanzi). I came home yesterday, and she sadly informed me that the water has been shut off. Why? I asked. "I don't know" she told me. "Sometimes they just forget about us here. They don't notify us." I was utterly amazed. They didn't notify the families that the water would be shut off. Moreover, the water was shut off in the evening (after 5). That is when almost everyone returns from work to come home, eat, and sleep. Now, int he United States, that would not have happened. If water was to be shut off for any reason, neighbors of a particular community would be notified, and the water would be shut off during the day--a prime time, when almost everyone is out and about during their daily activities. This water stoppage absolutely shocked me. What if you needed to drink water to stay hydrated? (it was quite warm yesterday). What if you needed to take a shower or brush your teeth? We couldn't even use the toilet because there was no water to flush with. Perhaps the most amazing thing, is that it did not shock anyone, or cause any havoc. I could hear people chatting about amanzi, but it seemed as if this happens often. In fact it does. My homestay mother told me it happened once or twice every year!

The water returned this morning, but now it isn't flowing properly. The faucets "cough" in a way, producing an uneven flow of water... I hope things get better by the time I return home in the evening.

on a different cultural note, I found out that Jacob Zuma has multiple wives. Polygyny (multiple wives) is an accepted phenomenon in zulu culture, particularly if you can pay libolo for all of your wives (a dowry). My mother explained it to me that its better when a man has multiple wives because you know who he's sleeping with, as opposed to "girl hunting." And it shows a man's wealth.. I though tthat waas pretty interesting.

Well, that's all for right now!