My Namibian Odyssey : Multiple Updates. One Post.

So this is a two-on-one update; one on the Okahandja Hospital visit and one on the field trip to Windhoek.

Today we went to the Hospital to see the HIV/AIDS section. It was pretty interesting to see how the hospital was laid out and what the people receiving treatments go through. It was a really small space for such a large need in the community. In one room the clerk, nurse, and doctor all shared an office and had people filtering through all the time. The testing room and the counseling room were one room so there couldn’t be a test and a session going on at the same time. We also got to see the Pharmacy and talk with all the different people involved in the Hospital process. The amount of work that they do is amazing considering the space and the need. David (a man in my group) asked what their needs were and the nurse responded with resources. Working in such a small space is discouraging to everyone involved. Wait times are longer because space and time are limited. It was really enlightening to see the Hospital and be able to get a better view of everything that is involved. Pam (a current PCV helping with our training) said that she recommends getting tested at a public clinic at least once so you will know what it is like for the average person getting tested. Once I get to site I will definitely take that opportunity.

Last weekend we went on a field trip to Windhoek! It was really a cool day. Our first stop was Heroes Acre where the leaders of the fight for independence as well as other Namibians who do amazing things are buried in honor. It was a beautiful monument and we walked all the way to the top and we got an amazing view of Windhoek from Heroes Acre. As a custom people who go to the top sing songs so we chose some Namibian songs that we have been learning. I will post the videos below along with some photos from the day.

Next we went to the mall! Which is just like a typical American mall with stores and food shops. It felt like we were transported back to the states with pretty much the same stores but with different names and styles. I picked up some much needed Q-tips (aka cotton buds) at a store called medicine world which was this HUGE pharmacy/rite aid type of a place.

Next we went to a few open markets where we ate street meat (which was AMAZING) and refueled with some water and ice cream. It was really cool to see all the different vendors selling their items, they even had worms but I’m waiting to eat those!

This Saturday is Namibian cultural food day where we will get to eat foods from all the different cultures of Namibia. My host mother is going to be cooking which is awesome because her food is delicious! (or //Khoaxa in Khoekhoe)

Hereoes Acre