Last night we were invited in one of the village communities where our organization offers support with building schools and providing educational materials and training. The community members insisted to do something in return, so they prepared a special Ramadan meal for our team members. From his previous experiences Frank already knew how welcoming the people in the community were. But what we experienced last night went beyond all expectations! Frank and his male colleagues were the honoured guests during the special meal outside on the colourful mats on the ground. The approximately 50 women of the community were seated in front of one of the small houses and obviously couldn't wait to finally meet '
Mister Frank's wife'. The moment I stepped on the compound they really made me feel at home and all of them gave me a big Sudanese hug to welcome me in their village. I was offered traditional food and juices before they asked me all kinds of questions about my experiences and ideas of Sudan. At some point the women even dressed me in one of their traditional clothes (which of course needed to be shown to Frank in front of a very excited audience!). At the end of the evening the men and women sat together to close the special celebration by thanking everyone for his/her contribution. We were very happy with the guidance of some of the men, women and children on our muddy way back to the car in complete darkness. Because of the rains, the village area was not accessible by car, so it was parked further ahead. Once back in the vehicle we all agreed that the people in this community truly know how to create a feeling of togetherness!
