AFRICAN EXTREMES
10 Jun 2009
In a week's time I've experienced so many different African Extremes...
From Niger's desert-villages to the city of Abuja in Nigeria, nearly nothing is the same. Here are some African Extremes:
- Last week we couldn't find one ATM in the former capital of Niger, this week we can pick and choose between 6 ATM's that's standing next to each other in the foyer of a hotel.
- Last week I woke up in my tent in the middle of the desert, with the sound of Fulani-women discussing the white people whose visiting their well. This morning I woke up in a hotel bed, have been served breakfast in my room and can only pick up the phone to order anything I need. And did I mention, all our expenses are paid by someone else.
- Searching for water in the Sahel is the center and soul purpose of most of the Fulani's in the desert. They trek for miles and miles to find water and enough grass for their animals and themselves. Here in the city of Abuja the water in the swimming pool downstairs are only a means of entertainment.
- Last week all I saw outside was sand, the sun and a few thorn bushes here and there, if I look outside my window right now, everything is extremely green, there's a few hills in the back ground and across the street is a beautiful vegetable garden.
- For the last 2 months I probably drank a minimum of 3 liters of water daily because of the heat. Since the 20th of April everyday has been 40 to 50 degrees Celsius, no exaggeration. For the last couple of days its been cloudy and I can swim anytime I want.
- Extreme poverty vs extreme wealth
- Dirt roads and dungeons vs four-lane high ways
- Fulani nomads vs upper class business men
All
these African Extremes are shaping me, molding me, putting question marks on the African way of life and sometimes giving answers...
WE'RE EXPLORING AND EXPERIENCING AFRICA IN ALL ITS EXTREMES