my zambian journey

insights into the world of a peace corps volunteer in africa. ***"THE CONTENTS OF THIS WEBSITE ARE MINE PERSONALLY AND DO NOT REFLECT ANY POSITION OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT OR THE PEACE CORPS."***

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Location: raymond palko, p.o. box 160073 mwinilunga, northwest province, Zambia

i'm a fun loving guy who is trying to find my place in the universe. hopefully i can do this while using my knowledge and education to do a little good in this world.

Sunday, August 03, 2008

success at last.

after many trials and tribulations, the clinic money has been received. the past month has kept me extremly busy, going back and forth between my site and the provincial capitol of solwezi buying materials. we have purchased everything needed and construction is well underway, and should finish by early september. the process has been long and tiring, but very rewarding. in addition to the clinic, the project has provided an economic boost to my community. the majority of building supplies was bought in solwezi but roofing planks, doors and other materials were purchased locally, giving honest work and pay to villagers. for example, the six guys making the planks received about $75 each. school fees for one of their children cost between $2 and $10 per year, and uniforms $10. many of them are planning to use some of the money to pay others to plant beans for them. about $20 would be the cost for someone to plant a field which should yeild $500 worth of beans. so this was an added benefit that i didnt anticipate. so thanks a lot to everyone who has donated to the project. know that your money was spent as best as possible. and if you or anyone you know wants to donate more, please go to www.peacecorps.gov, click on donate now and find other projects in zambia.