I apologize for the gap in writing.  Still figuring out the internet here and was very remote when my time ran out.  Christine, Lovemore and I spent an incredible 10 days traveling and training the first level of training classes for community health evangelism in Mpulungu, Zambia.  It is located in the very northern province on the shores of Lake Tangynika.  Depending on your source it's the largest or second largest lake in the world. Mpulungu has about 100,000 people but is spread out and remote.  There is no gas station in town (30 minute drive), no Shoprite (regular grocery store), and one small good restaurant.  Below are the 24 people who finished the first level of training (there are 3).  It was great working with them.  They come from villages spread all up and down the lake; some a 6 hour boat ride away.  

Below Christine and I posing with three of the trainers.  

Below are three amazing people with disabilities that won't be stopped.  They get around by "PET mobiles." These are made in Kitwe by a Christian group.  I've met them at missions conferences but it was great to see them in use.  These people go and visit other people with disabilities, bringing them help.  Makes any of my complaining pointless.

Below is a picture of objects representing the most important problems in the villages in this area, followed by the word descriptions.  Alcoholism, love of money, lack of education, and witchcraft were the top four.  It was very touching to me when the older gentleman put down the cross made of grass to represent lack of the Word of God.  I think 10 of the 11 problems could be fixed by that one.

Below is the group discussing what should be requirements of a community health worker.  Level of education, ability to read or write, and Christian are always interesting to hear different points of view.  

The needs in this area are great.  There are only 2 Zambian doctors in Mpulungu and only 2-3 outlying clinics in the large surrounding area.  Many villages are greater then one day's travel from any medicine or medical care.  Malaria, bilharzia, HIV, malnutrition, and cholera all are present.  People are very traditional in their way of life and beliefs.  Many feel mzungus (white people) bring the mosquitoes.  Fishermen fish only...they don't grow gardens hence lack of micronutrients in a diet lacking veggies.  We heard multiple stories about people turning into crocodiles, climbing mountains in 5 minutes or crossing the lake without a boat (all through witchcraft).  I feel very drawn to this area and people.  I look forward to seeing where God leads.  I am excited to return in a couple months to help with the second level of training of the trainers (TOT2).  We hope to also go out with the local missionary nurses to a few village clinics along the lake.