“Let me clear my throat, ah huh ah huh / … / Every step tango’d / Your beat don’t concern me / I’m eatin’ mangoes in Trinidad wit’ attorneys”

Having been in our communities for nearly 4 months, it was time for In-Service Training at the end of March.  For this, each of us was to invite a counterpart (homologue) – someone we anticipate working with on future projects – to the 4-day seminar.  Due to personnel issues within the Health Center, there was a fair amount of deliberation but I eventually decided to ask the nurse.  However, like most things in Cameroon, there was a bureaucratic process to make this happen.  After privately explaining to her why she was my choice, I was informed that I would have to discuss it with the president of some of the area health centers.  After arranging a meeting with him, he agreed with my selection, but said that I would need to clear it with the Chief of the Health Center.  This man cautiously agreed, but told me that, because she is a government employee, he would have to seek approval from the Sous-Prefet.  And, after all these hoops were cleared, there was still the fact that she needed to have permission from her husband!  Despite the obstacles, I'm happy with my selection and think we both benefited from attending the seminar together.      

The training was in the north so I decided to use the opportunity to explore a bit of the country afterwards.  First stop?  Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon.  Having only spent a frenzied day here upon my arrival in-country back in September, it was nice to explore a bit more.  The chaos I initially experienced is still there, but I find I’m almost non-plussed by it now.        

The overnight train from Yaounde to Ngaoundere was nicer than I expected, and having sleeper car (wagon-lit) accommodations for our group made for a relaxing evening.  Thankfully, the route only took the normal 14-15 hours (derailments are common and can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere waiting for the other half of the train to return and reconnect). 

It was great seeing everyone again, catching up, and learning about one another’s respective posts.  In the back of my mind, it was strange to think that this would be the last time the group would be together before our Close of Service conference in late 2012.  Nevertheless, now was the time for living in the moment – and there were plenty of moments to be had.    

Cameroon is known to be incredibly diverse, but the Grand North felt like a completely different world.  From geography and climate to food and music, you can travel 10 kilometers in this country and see something new.  Although considerably hotter, I generally found the north to be calmer and more efficient.  (Though, when it’s 120 degrees, who has the energy to argue?)  Even bargaining at the outdoor markets was a pleasant experience.   (I still got ripped off, but at least I was able to joke around with the vendors.)  At first, I was unaccustomed to the heat – likening it to the feeling of someone constantly breathing on you – but I quickly adjusted and came to enjoy the opportunity to sleep outside at night.

Located in Ngaoundere - Karaoke bar...owned by Muslims...complete with laser lights and bubble machine.  (Which begs the question: Can it still be called a karaoke bar if they don't sell alcohol?)

  

Maroua is the northern most regional capital, and was a perfect vacation destination.  The city is beautiful, clean, and Cameroonian-cosmopolitan with tree-lined streets.  

Mangoes at the market.  Sooooo good...

  

A group of us arranged to see Waza, Cameroon’s national park.  While it didn’t turn out to be a full-blown safari experience (no elephants, hippos, or lions on this particular day), it was fun spotting giraffes, monkeys, warthogs, antelopes, and various birds.    

A few of us also decided to take in Rhumsiki, a traditional village that commercially caters to visitors.  Part of the journey to get there included doubling up on motos for an hour-and-a-half ride.  The combination of a far-too-bold driver, uncomfortable seat, and a rugged road left us sore and shaky on dismounting the bike, but the sunset views I witnessed along the way were jaw-dropping.  Our travel woes were soon forgotten as we indulged in a MAGNIFICENT dinner (who knew 6-course meals existed in Cameroon?) under the stars. 

Rhumsiki

All in all, my vacation was full of touristy attractions, but also gave me downtime to relax with friends. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to explore this country and better know my fellow volunteers.  We laughed harder than we have in months, consoled each other on personal and professional frustrations, and said goodbye to new acquaintances.   I immensely enjoyed the time off, and have an even greater appreciation for this country…but I’ll admit that it’s good to be back in village, too.