Today, Joao Bueno (the crazy Brazilian genius behind FPP) conducted a meeting with the community leaders in Mbatwe. It was full of tough questions, inspiring answers, and great hope. These good leaders have embraced their role in the community, and are looking forward to maintaining their gains in the future. One after another they communicated their long-term commitment to what they learned. One good man explained how he knows his children will never suffer the same conditions he has, because he will share his knowledge with them. Generational change is what we are after. We have great hopes for them.
I do feel a little parental though. Like any father, you send your kids out in the world hoping that they know what they need to know, and praying they will make good decisions. We feel that way about our friends in Mbatwe. Luckily, we will keep in touch, and every six months follow-up with an assessment to see how they are holding up. We wish them well.
Also: I think my daughter Emily helped build the meeting place (machessa) where we held this meeting. It was still well maintained and in great shape.