One of the most nerve-wracking things in the build up to leaving the UK for Zimbabwe was deliberation over where and how we might be living. Who will I be sharing with? Will I have electricity? Will I have running water? So many questions. The placements and partner organisations in Zimbabwe are based in various areas so there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ guide to host homes. But we hope this blog might help a select few, lucky enough to be placed in a more rural location!
Having been placed with local organisation DOMCCP (Diocese of Mutare Community Care Programme) in eastern Zimbabwe at our pre-departure training, we were informed that our location, and therefore host homes, would be in a more rural setting. In Mutasa district, 30km north of Mutare, there is little to no plumbing or sewer system, which means two things – bucket showers and squat toilets. These are probably two of the more startling adaptations you have to make but don’t believe the images your mind might conjure, it’s really fine.
Two of our DOMCCP team have given us the keys to their crib, so we can show little more of host home life in rural Zimbabwe.
“We’re Flo and Catherine, welcome to our crib!”
The cooking and dining area – where all the sadza you could ever wish for will be made and consumed.
The living area – most host homes have a living area to ponder Zimbabwean news, or read books. Our host home has a TV too, so you can occupy yourself during downtime.
The bedroom – cosy and functional. Complete with nets to fend off mosquitos (and possibly spiders).
The walk in wardrobe – slowly getting used to this sophisticated clothes management system!
The squat toilets and a bucket shower in between – squat toilets are great for leg muscle gains (and a great butt!). Bucket showers have become surprisingly refreshing in the Zimbabwean heat!
The vegetable garden – this is what you’re eating tonight! Kovo, kovo, and more kovo (with sadza).
Written by ICS Team DOMCPP
