 |
Our Overseas Partner and FriendNancy Loveless – Collingwood, ON On the road of life we meet many people who inspire and motivate us to be better individuals. I am very thankful that my road has led me to Mama Wandoa, the overseas co-ordinator for Sleeping Children distributions in Tanzania. When she met us at the airport on our arrival in Dar es Salaam I was immediately touched by her warmth and caring. As she embraced us all fondly we knew we had met a new friend and sister. Mama had been working all year getting ready for our nine-day distribution schedule. She ordered and purchased all the bedkit items, making the best deals and ensuring the items were of high quality and relevant to the needs of the children. The bedkits were assembled at her home and stored there as well -- piled high throughout the rooms of her home. 
They were then loaded in trucks by her helpers and delivered to the distribution sites. Every morning Mama was there ahead of us making sure that all was ready for the day. While we were preparing for our jobs Mama was calling and checking the names of the recipients on her master list. Mama organized many helpers who were well briefed on how to help us. They worked diligently every day and we shared many good times together as we worked toward our common goal. They gave us lessons in Swahili and had many a chuckle at our attempts. After one distribution we went to Mama's house, the Upendo AIDS Centre, where she is available to those who need her night or day. She offers them education about AIDS and counseling. She is a shelter for many who are in the position of finding out that they are HIV positive. We met those who have been helped by her and have found hope and purpose for their lives. Some of them were helpers at many of the distributions. Mama is a tireless advocate for the children of Tanzania. We heard a story about how seriously she takes the job of getting the bedkits ready on time. When purchasing mattresses for distribution a few years ago she went to the factory to pick them up and was told they were not ready. Mama proceeded to lie on the floor of the factory and told them that she wasn't moving until they fulfilled their quota. She got her mattresses. 
I saw how she treats both children and adults with respect and consideration. She has a presence of confidence, kindness, and determination. She is highly regarded by all who know her. It has been a privilege to work with Mama. I asked her how she continues to keep going since the needs she meets are great. She told me that her faith is her anchor and strength. She is a true servant and everyone she touches feels her sincerity and resolve to make this world a better place. I hope that our roads will cross again. Asante, Mama. |