Swaziland
This blog was written up by my teammate Emily and explains what we are up to, and how you can help support me so I can stay on the race.
I-squad has just arrived in Swaziland for month 3 of the race!
Here are some facts about the country of Swaziland
- Swaziland has the highest rate of HIV per capita in the world
- Generations 18-40 are missing
- The population is comprised of mostly children and Go Go’s (grandmothers)
- Orphans make up 20% of the population
- You can drive across the country in around 3hrs –it is about the size of New Jersey
- It is the last monarchy in Africa
- Polygamy is widely practiced
- The King of Swaziland has somewhere around 14 wives
- Each wife has her own palace
- No matter what the King says or does no one ever speaks poorly of Him
First, let me say that our living conditions might not be ‘house and home’ style but the view is sure worth it! One day we found a tarantula in our bathroom and a scorpion in our bedroom. Swaziland has a beautiful landscape. Some I-squad teams have the privilege of serving in the mountains this month! (However I’m sure their living conditions will be a lot worse than where I am) My team and I are paired up with team Esse Quan Videri (which means “to be rather than to seem”).
We are serving in Nsoko (pronounced NsoGo) at an AIM ministry site called ‘The Anchor”. Although the site seems to be in rough condition it has a lot to offer the community. The people of Nsoko come here to receive an education, medical care, food & spiritual support/counseling.
In terms of water, there is only one well for the entire community, which is provided by the AIM ministry site. Imagine having to walk to the local well every time you wanted to water your garden, cook food, or cool your thirst. Not only that but sharing one well with ALL of your neighbors. The Anchor ministry site was able to use their land to set up a drip irrigation system for a garden. The garden is big enough to rent out plots to 39 homesteads, which enables the locals to plant and harvest their own vegetables. Not only does this provide food for the community but it also gives an opportunity for the locals to work and have a sense of pride in providing for their families. This project was possible due to funds from churches and individuals back in the states.
AIM (Adventures in Missions) also has a partnership with some of the farmers in the area. The farmers have donated 3 hectares of land towards AIM. One of our responsibilities this month will be helping harvest the land so we can distribute the produce during our home visits.
On Sunday, church takes place in our living room. We cram about 100 people in here and today, the service lasted 2.5hrs, which apparently is normal. And man, can Africans sing! They put their whole heart and soul into worship.
I’m really excited to let you guys know about all the amazing things God is going to do this month here in Nsoko!
This week we also experienced seeing a Scorpian in our room, a Taranchala in our bathroom, and apparently Swaziland is known for the worlds deadliest snakes (including the black Mamba). Scary right?
Please know that in the next 3 weeks I have the potential of going home if I do not meet my next financial goal of 11,000.
I currently need to raise 1400 to make it to 11,000 by Dec 1st.
To partner with me on this journey please pray for me and if you feel led, please donate. You can do so by visiting my website www.stefaniepray.theworldrace.org and clicking on the support me link under my profile pic.
Help me finish the race!
