The building we arrived at is one that has developed from the efforts of a dedicated band of local Tanzanians, who recognised the needs of destitute street children and hoped to give them some hope in their lives. It has grown from humble beginnings – just a room acting as a drop in centre, to a building which houses and educates between 70 to 90 children at any given time. By providing for the basic needs of these children it aims to put them back on their feet, get them back in touch with family life (if appropriate), teach them basic life skills and ’offer a chance of a lifetime’.

Our tour including viewing the classrooms (in which students were proudly sitting in their bright purple and grey uniforms), the dormitories, the health clinic, kitchen and dining area and the expansive playground area – now fully grassed and with lots of shelter about.

It wasn’t long before a game of soccer began on the oval, and visiting students were definitely challenged by the skills of local students. The audience of non-players watched enthusiastically, until distracted by the sharing of smiles, photos and other games. Arm-wrestle challenges occurred, somersaults were performed and simple games quickly filled the afternoon, till sadly we had to leave.

Quiet reflection occurred on the bus trip back to ISM, as we considered the fortunes of the students in Amani – blessed to be cared for but part of a cycle of poverty facing many others in countries such as Tanzania. We were able to take away with us a few souvenirs – in the form of T-shirts, cards and booklets which help to support the organisation. We also have a link to their web site which gives a more complete story about what Amani stands for and aims to manage with help in the future: http://www.amanikids.org/ (Watch the video for more information.)

Have a look at this link for more information and consider how you might be able to support this organisation yourself! Often so little can mean so much…

It took a while – longer for some than others, but we made it from the gate of the national park, along the mountain trail to the first hut, Miriakamba, in reasonable time. After an overnight, we set off the next day to Saddle Hut and the path became even more challenging. Though some experienced doubts about finally getting there, teamwork overcame these issues and we had an early night and all got ready for a early morning climb.

The early start was worth it, as we were able to witness the sunrise over Mt Kilimanjaro – a wash of majestic colours from our Creator surrounding the towering mountain in the distance.

There will be many photos to delight those at home with views from Rhino Point – I hope they will truly reflect the feelings of achievement, companionship and great spirit that we felt through out the climb, and this too will remain with this hardy bands of trekkers for a lifetime .

(Could someone tell Mum to stop worrying now?)

The day was magic, with a combination of cool breezes, some strong sunshine and a few “sunshowers” as the day went on. It began with excited chatter, continued with lots of fun and friendship, and ended with triumphant cheers when the hardy finished their hike  in the late late afternoon.

Challenges during the day included hiking with a sometimes-heavy pack, talking and walking at the same time, (though not a trouble for some… insert name here, e.g. Tess, Amelia or Brianna), and crossing a lengthy suspension bridge over the Cox’s River.  The bridge is a 90-metre long, one-person-wide swing bridge that shudders with each step high above the river rocks – just ask Katie, Marissa or Jessica.

Lunch by the Cox’s River was a great time to relax and explore – time to soak your feet, or yourself (Georgia, Jessica, Ned and Nathan tried that). All the time, Zac bounded around tirelessly, a photographer/hiker looking for opportunities, as Nathan egged him on.

The final challenge was met in the late afternoon, struggling in thunderous/rainy conditions – the last 2 kilometres up to the Explorer’s Tree. There, parents and families were anxiously awaiting, as the light faded and the thunderous rain continued. Slippery conditions and tricky steps challenged even the most surefooted adventurers; then one by one they appeared from the bushland – wet and weary but with triumphant gleams in their eyes – particularly as Tess and Katie lead the way.

Most were wet (Edmund appeared soaked to the bone, but grinning from ear to ear). Some were muddy. Many were fighting off leeches (screaming as they located yet another one!). Some had challenges yet to be met. All were gleaming with a sense of having met their personal challenges – perhaps surprising even themselves! Finally, Caitlin, Emily and Annie brought up the rear with Mr L and Mrs B, all glowing with success, but greatly relieved to have made the distance. And all had a new admiration and thankfulness for the teachers who planned and lead the challenge so well – Mr L and Mrs B. 

Now bring on Mt Meru!

If you were on the hike, leave a comment on your experience. What was the significance of the day for you?