It is a bitter sweet time for us as we come to the end of our time in Tanzania. SWCEA has come a long way in the past year. There have been many, many ups and downs as we have tried to grow the business and the road ahead will be no less easy. Finally, I believe we have come to a point where we can say that we have a strengthened filter, a good flow rate and a more consistent firing range.
SWCEA will now be able to move ahead with a solid product, and a new manager who will bring strong business and marketing skills to SWCEA. We hope that the coming year will show positive gain and vastly increased sales with her expertise.
Our experience here in Tanzania has been priceless. We have learned much from our Tanzanian friends about the value of community and family. Faith in God is strong here and it is the glue which holds everything together.
My husband Mike has contributed much to the SWCEA project, donating time and vehicle use to get filters out to teachers. He has enjoyed working closely with Stella, practicing his Swahili during the long road hours. He and Stella are fast friends. My son Izac has enjoyed immensely the camaraderie of his Tanzanian friends who have included him in play and conversation without hesitation. It has been an immensely valuable and unforgettable childhood experience for him. For myself, as a potter, I have been stretched and strengthened by this experience. My connection with Kim will never be forgotten as we faced the production hurdles together. It has been a pleasure to work with this immensely charming and thoughtful man.
My dream of returning to East Africa to do meaningful development work has come to pass. I believe in the Ceramic Water Filter as a means for safe water and I have been very happy to have thrown myself into this project body and soul.
Thank you SWAN, SWCEA, Tracy, Kim, Stella and all the wonderful Ngulelo friends we have been so happy to have shared a year with. Best of luck to you SWCEA – May you grow and continue to provide Safe Water to those in need.
