18 months ago there were 70 families living in tarpaulin and mud huts on a barren hill-top, walking 6km twice a day to collect stagnant filthy water.As we drove down the familiar dusty, potholed path spontaneous applause broke out in the vehicle as we saw shiny roofs glinting in the sunshine. A ‘three street’ village has appeared, gardens are growing, children are playing. This is the fulfilment of what was only a paper dream for me – and without wanting to sound proud, it is deeply satisfying.
Today there are 70 adobe brick 4-room houses with attached pit latrines fenced by green succulent plant fences. The nearby water bore and hand pump still works and is the gathering place for about 20 people gathering water and washing clothes. A brick community centre and a Salvation Army officer’s house stand on prime land a short distance from the village.
It was an emotional and amazing privilege to return to the village where I spent 5 weeks. I was able to meet the people and hear the stories of the way in which the project has changed and enhanced their lives. To meet the children and have them sing to me again was a rare and exciting opportunity.
The community centre is administered by The Salvation Army and as well as being a training facility for adult literacy, HIV/AIDS prevention, weaving and sewing it is home to the church. Today, (12 months after opening) the two officers administer a church that has: an average Sunday attendance of 140 with 45 Senior Soldiers, 48 Junior Soldiers, 44 Recruits, Junior and Senior Home Leagues, a choir of 18 and weekly prayer meetings and bible studies.Gituro is a vibrant, happy, clean and hope filled village.
