Language says it all
Coming from a culture where being straightforward and direct in communication is considered an asset, it has taken me a while to understand Swahili culture. Even so,…
Columnists
The rest of us will just have to wait
Some days seem to be made up of just frustrations. Returning to town from Kigamboni on a random Thursday and being stuck in traffic on Julius Nyerere…
No worries for the unprepared
If you happen to leave the house without proper preparations for the day ahead – no worries. All you need can be found for offer on the…
Stamps & Signatures
To me, the sound of papers being stamped was something of the old days, but here I have learned not to underestimate its significance. Stamps and signatures are…
What to do?
These are the days when I see people all around me scratching a living out of nothing. A lady with a baby tied on her back sitting in…
Nyerere’s bridge
The new bridge to Kigamboni is a sight to see, so I have been told. It took almost five years to construct and was opened officially several…
Fomu
Never before have I filled in as many forms as I have here. Usually these forms are asking for the same details. Even within one institution, like…
A walk in Bongo
One of my typical days of here in Bongo I cannot imagine happening anywhere else. While out for a walk, I’m offered a lift so I pass…
The hope of good sales
Often I’m amazed at the seemingly relaxed attitude of people doing business on the roads, all hoping for a good sale. To me it looks like a…
As it comes
Taking things as they come is a good approach in daily life, especially here. Plans and intentions are always there — but the next phase is a…