Simakakata -- The Blind Community

Those of you who have been reading my Zambian adventures for years will remember that this village is a collection of discarded people who are blind or lame or disabled in some other way, and they have no one in their home villages to care for them. The government allocated land for a village where these disadvantaged could be placed. When Ruhtt discovered them, they were a truly needy people living in grass huts and having to walk almost two miles to get water. Since that time, God has shined His face on these people, and many people have donated time and money to help the community improve. For those villagers who are willing to do the work and try to improve their life, there are permanent brick houses with tin roofs, a bore hole very close by for getting water, and even plenty of land for maize and fruit trees and a garden for each home. We had the privilege of visiting this community today and giving each household a small gift. Ruhtt gave us a wonderful tour, and we were able to see her in action as she encouraged the people to stand on their own and solve their own problems. Enjoy the pictures.

David and Sherry found a sign at the school that emphasized the message of purity that they are bringing to the students in two villages.

Mary Beth found a woman who understood English  well enough that she could explain to her how to use the antibiotic ointment she brought to share.

Our new friend, Breanna, taught the children how to blow bubbles.

The little children who cannot yet walk enjoyed exploring the hand driven cart that is used by the people from the village who are lame so they can have mobility.  These carts are provided by either World Vision or Care International.  The pedals are where the handlebars should be, and the person uses his arms to move the pedals.  This device works remarkably well to provide mobility for people who otherwise would have to depend on crutches, or nothing at all.