A General Update

So, the good news is that the Zambians adhered to their non-violent reputation and had a peaceful election day. There also have been few reports of voting concerns/irregularities thus far. The international observers seemed pleased as well. As far as I can tell, there were different party favorites in different regions, but the overall current leader in the polls is Micheal Sata, the challenger known for being a man of action, but not necessarily a diplomat. However, the news I hear says that the counting isn't quite complete, and it's a tight race. Sound familiar? I will keep you posted on the final results.

For me, life continues to be fine, but progress on my fact-finding mission a bit slow. It has been hard to determine which government education figures I should be talking to, and the activity around the election made many people inaccessible this week. I have learned quite a bit, though, about what type of computer training is already available in Lusaka and at what cost. I also had a brief but good meeting with my boss and his wife when they passed through town.

I continue to learn my way around my neighborhood on foot and some parts of Lusaka by bus, but hope to expand my view further. A friend took me to the bustling covered City Market, which reminded me a bit of a Middle Eastern souk, although not as old. There were large areas inside and outside of the market where people were selling "salalula" the local name for second hand clothing. I hear that much of this is the excess stock from thrift stores in the states. While it gives Zambians access to cheap clothing, it has been very hard on the local textiles markets.

I have turned the neighbor kids into addicts of the UNO card game. They are regular visitors, but otherwise my evenings are being spent alone in the house reading, typing notes, and learning about the wonders of DSTV. I have had a few weekend invitations for lunch with friends, who have housing that ranges from quite modest (two small rooms, no running water inside) to quite extravagant (lovely house in the country with servants, a large garden, and amazing views). The weather is getting warmer, but I don't think it has reached 90F yet, and the nights are cool enough for sleeping. As the rainy season approaches, I hear it will get warmer and more humid. Hopefully I will continue to adapt!