Week 1 Swaziland

The power keeps cutting out as I write this so apologies if it seems a bit disjointed. Mbabane, and in fact Swaziland as a country is incredibly mountainous and suffers from pretty extreme weather conditions at times. While it is not yet the season known for lightning strikes it is astonishingly windy and I think that this may be the source of my electrical problems. And it is making such a bloody racket outside. Last night the wind was making so much noise that I woke up thinking someone was breaking into my house – I jumped out of bed and ran into the hall hurling abuse at the would-be assailant and yielding the frying pan I keep beside my bed (for these exact purposes). My poor guard had no idea what was going on and started shouting to me from outside, obviously assuming that I was in danger and not, as was the case, a complete idiot.

Despite my paranoia Swaziland seems to be a pretty safe country – this is according not only to my own experiences in the week that I’ve been here, but also those of my colleagues in the UNICEF office and the staff of the Waterford UWC. The most hassle I have had has been the odd marriage proposal or the offer of someone’s shoulder as a pillow. The men I have met here actually remind me a bit of men in Northern Ireland – they could be construed as misogynistic and seedy, but really they are pretty well meaning and jovial. And it is in tune with the Swazi culture, where being friendly to everyone and open about everything you think is a very important part of how Swazi people interact. It is considered rude to speak to someone, even in passing in a shop, and not first ask how they are. While this is a nice little ritual some people find it gets a bit annoying quite quickly, but I still appreciate the sentiment, especially after my last few months spent in the London. Maybe I’m just cut out for a more rural way of living? You can take the girl out of Donaghadee....harhar.

I’ve also joined a local basketball team, who are so lovely and make me feel like the new Michael Jordan. I can just hold the ball above my head and no one can touch it without fouling me.  It makes me realise how important a role sport can play in making friendships. It encourages the kind of camaraderie that can transcend nationalities and even language. If I hadn’t joined this team (who are the current local league winners – jussaying!) there would have been little chance of meeting native Swazis and not simply sticking to the expat circuit, which is so common in many African countries. So shout out to Mr Cameron for reinstating compulsory competitive sports in schools – good call.

I need to go rescue my laundry before it all blows away. But I didn’t have time to talk about the incredibly interesting political situation here! Next time.