A Fruit Tree a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Metaha,

After pilling into the back of the truck all that could head was the screeching and yelling of the 30+ children on the way to the garden. Not only were the children happy about going to the OVC Community Garden to learn how to plant trees but were also very excited to be getting a ride in a truck. Even though many of us take having a vehicle or access to a vehicle for granted, these children do not and many of them may not have been in a vehicle for a long time. This made the trip that much more exciting.

Children ready for the ride, this is a normal way of travel!

Arriving at the garden with excitement.

When we reached the garden the children jumped out. They were very surprised at the size of the garden, 3 hectares or almost 12 acres but wasted no time and crowded together to get ready for their lesson. The volunteers taught the lesson in a type of show and tell learning/teaching style. The children took turns mock planing the tree with their suggested style all the while telling the others what they were doing . It was great to see how many different ways the children could come up with to plant the tree. After many different methods were shown the children discussed which would be the best. Amazingly enough the children described the method that the Ministry of Forestry suggested for planting fruit trees. Below are a few pictures showing the steps of planting with the children.

Blaundina explaining the process of fruit tree planting.

A little water for now.

Collecting the sticky mopanie bark for lashing.

Collecting maize stalks.

Many, Many stalks needed.

Lashing the sticks and maize stalks together.

The sticks and maize stalks give the tree protection.

Watering the newly planted tree.

2 trees finished...48 to go.

Spotlight on Ruben

Q1. What is your full name and age?

A1. Ruben Kandimba, 18 years old.

Q2. When and where were you born?

A2. 12-15-1990 at Ruacana.

Q3. What are the names and ages of your brothers and sisters?

A3. My sister name is Elise Tjuundukia born 1986-01-06.

Q4. What is your favorite color?

A4. My favorite colors are Green and Red.

Q5. What grade are you in?

A5. In grade 9a.

Q6. What is your favorite subject in school?

A6. English and Geography.

Q7. What do you do for fun?

A7. I like to read the Bible, play soccer,watch soccer, watch movies, and read magazines.

Q8. What is your favorite food?

A8. I like apples, meat, and bread.

Q9. If you could have one wish what would it be?

A9. I wish to become a soccer player or a paster.

Q10. What is your favorite part of the Omapitiro Weyuva After School Class?

A10. My favorite part of attending this class is learning with the children and making things in my journal.

Thanks Ruben!!!

For now, Uhara Nawa