Charlie Chikankata has a lot to answer for! Here I am in the heart of rural Zambia, working for The Salvation Army as the Manager/Hospital Administrator of Chikankata Health Services. Not so much an intellectuall reflection rather a kind of journal of the unexpected.

Wednesday, October 03, 2007

FINALLY!
Well look at this big baby!!! After months of waiting, the new ambulance finally arrived at Chikankata today. I can’t tell you how happy I am.


We have waited for nearly 9 months for this machine, the reasons for the delay being twofold; firstly the money to pay for this new vehicle took quite a long time to arrive through The Salvation Army system. Then when it did arrive we have major delays when ordering through Toyota Zambia. Of all the companies I have dealt with Toyota Zambia have, in my opinion, given possibly the worst customer service and that is saying something in Africa (note to self : file away under “don’t get me started……”) Anyway back to the point; its been a long time coming!


So a big thank you to all who helped raised the ₤25,000 for this special vehicle. It’s beautiful. It’s got an electric winch and everything. So, no more getting stuck in the mud or the streams. No more putting people in the back of pick ups on plastic mattresses. No more having to pay to use Project vehicles to answer emergency calls. It has flashing lights, an oxygen cylinder and a proper emergency trolley. This vehicle will undoubtedly save lives and will definitely make a difference to the community we serve


So a special thank to all who contributed, especially my mates - Nick Hanover, Garry Smith, Kevin Fenton Herring and Clark Baim. Thanks also to a number of corps such a.s Chelmsford, Carlisle and Aberdeen as well as the young people who attended the Scotland Youth Councils. Also thanks to our friends at the UKT International Development Department.

This morning we held a dedication service, where we gave thanks to God for his continued provision and thanks to all those who contributed in anyway. This ambulance is testament to what can be achieved when alot of people are prepared to give big and small amounts in the spirit of helping others.


Twalumba Kapati!

1 Comments:

Blogger Eleanor Burne-Jones said...

The kids are delighted it has arrived and we all wish the team well, may it help save many lives. :0)

7:19 am

 

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