The Village in the Sky

Our last two and a half days were spent in Ramabanta, a village about 45 kms up into the mountains from Roma.  It’s a village high up in the Malutis, overlooking gorgeous mountain peaks and waterfalls below.  We didn't witness one cloud in the sky the entire time we were there.  Only blue skies at day and crystal clear constellations at night graced our views.  We have been to Ramabanta on a number of occasions in years, past, and we had to go back.  Over time, we have developed a love for this very special place.  It’s as if there is nowhere else on Earth as peaceful and beautiful as this secluded area in Lesotho.

 On Thursday morning, we went with Tsili, an employee at the guest lodge and friend of ours, to his home in Thaba Bosiu.  We wanted to see his newly established piggery, where 14 new piglets were recently born.  It was fascinating to learn how small pig farming can produce some serious profit for a family.  After spending some more time at his home, we headed up to Ramabanta.

Ramabanta is such a peaceful place that it is hard not to take advantage of the natural surrounding beauty.  We spent some time fishing that evening in a nearby river, which we unfortunately did not catch anything.  We also enjoyed the cool mountain breezes as we sipped our 5 Roses tea and breathed the fresh mountain air.  But it wasn't all R&R for us while we were there.

Fishing for trout in Ramabanta

We spent a day in the village, meeting as many peoples as we could.  Our friend, Lerato Nkesi, is the eldest daughter of the village chief.  She walked us through the village and helped us understand the community better.  We visited some small farms, piggeries, library, a primary school and even met with the village chief to explain Bloom Africa’s vision.  We also stopped by the newly built medical clinic, and had time to ask the nurses their questions about the health issues facing the community.  We spent an afternoon with the principal of the local primary school, and discussed some ways the school and a Community Learning Center could work together. 

High 5!

An exciting development is also taking place.  Later this afternoon, Lerato will be meeting with the Principal Chief of Ramabanta, who has political and traditional jurisdiction over a wide span of land.  She will be discussing our organization and vision of empowerment for the community in Ramabanta.  These are some of the initial steps in a very promising partnership in the years to come.

Lerato walking us through her village

We will soon be heading to South Africa, where we will be attending a special church service in the morning, as well as meeting some young adults who are interested in developing their own NGOs.  As always, we’ll keep you posted along our journey.

Thanks for your continued support.

Ka Khotso,

William & Andrew