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Although the national language of Zambia is English, less & less English is actually spoken in the rural areas. During my first 2 years of service, I lived in an area where I was required to speak Bemba -one of the most widely spoken tribal languages in Zambia.
My new assignment places me in an area that is actually an overlapping region for several different tribes, including the Chokwe, Luvale, Kaonde, and Lunda people. I probably won't get to speak much Bemba in this region, so most of my communication will happen either in English or with the help of a translator.
For the past 2 years, I was a Rural Education Development volunteer. My primary project was working with "Learning at Taonga Market," the interactive radio instruction program put out by the Zambian Ministry of Education which covers the primary school curriculum in a fun, engaging way, that is broadcast over the national radio station. It provides a vehicle for the delivery of basic education that does not require a trained teacher or a school building, allowing for improved access to basic education in Zambia's rural areas. Peace Corps developed the LTM Projects after 2 volunteers had successfully worked with the Ministry of Education in support of it for over a year. I was part of the 3rd group of volunteers to be involved with the LTM Project.
"Learning at Taonga Market," the radio program, was developed by the Ministry of Education to improve access to quality basic education --many school-going age children are not in school in Zambia-- and Peace Corps' support of the program focusses on helping the Ministry of Education achieve its goals of effectively delivering and supporting the program. The LTM Project aims to support the "Learning at Taonga Market" program holistically, by working with all of the 'players of the game' --Ministry Officials and participating communities alike.
In addition to my working in the education field, a lot of my time was devoted to promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and teaching about the prevention of malaria and malnutrition. One side project that unexpectedly turned into a huge part of my work was teaching local farmers about the benefits of harvesting soya beans and how to incorporate them into their children's diets.
PCVL stands for Peace Corps Volunteer Leader, and it is my new title for the next year. This position is designed to provide support to new and current volunteers living within the PCVL's province. The PCVL is available to provide emotional support, along with project advice and assistance. PCVLs are responsible to preparing communities for the arrival of new volunteers and for checking up on the health, safety, and progress of volunteers currently in the field. As a PCVL, I will be living in Solwezi, the provincial capital of Northwestern Province, Zambia.
The living conditions of volunteers living in Zambia varies, but one thing's for sure: It probably won't be very similar to any living conditions I've experienced before!
Housing A traditional house, made from mud bricks and a grass thatched roof Amenities No running water (water source may be a nearby well, borehole, or river) No electricity (candles & kerosene lamps for light) Transportation Public transport can be a major hassle in Zambia. Distance are long, roads are sometimes in a shocking state of disrepair, and vehicles can be crowded & uncomfortable. I will be given a mountain bike for my primary source of transportation. Food The staple food in Zambia is nshima, which is made from maize meal and cooked into soft lumps that are usually eaten with a side of cooked vegetables, fish, or beans. People typically eat nshima with their hands.
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