A day of colour and contrasts.  Our MAF flight was stupendous – fantastic views of Uganda from the sky, the meandering Nile, small communities of tukels, dirt and made up roads, and we landed safely in what looked like a field with a straight line in it just outside Moyo. Our reception committee consisted of a few children who enjoyed their pictures being taken by Ellen. Then Joseph Abba,  the CRESS man on the ground, ably chauffeured by Edward, arrived and we experienced first hand the enthusiasm and affection readily expressed by our brothers and sisters in this amazing place.

Andrew, Cilla and Ellen finally meet Joseph

It was wonderful to see Joseph again, and to introduce him to Andrew and Cilla, and Ellen. We had a smooth journey over the border, thank you, and as we approached our destination Joseph had a surprise waiting for us. We turned a corner to be greeted by the ladies who are involved in the agricultural project dressed up in their finest clothes, waving branches, singing and proudly displaying the fruits of their labours. Bowls overflowing with bright red tomatoes and green peppers, grown to sell and for their families to consume which has resulted in a measurable improvement in their health and wellbeing for adults and children alike.

Processing and joyful celebration

The procession led us to the Bishop’s house, where we are staying, and we were presented with a bucket full of fresh produce. It was a joyful demonstration full of gratitude for what CRESS has enabled and supports, and an overwhelming and delightful way to start our stay here. We have already met many of the people involved with CRESS, as well as some students from the theological college, and everyone has said how welcome we are. They seem to be really delighted that we are visiting despite the extra work this involved for them.

We have had a meeting in the new CRESS offices and have sorted out the suitcases ready for appropriate distribution – starting with the schools tomorrow. We were sorry to hear that the secondary school, Comboni, has sent their children home early for their holidays as they were unable to afford to feed them.

More tomorrow. With all best wishes from the CRESS team in KK.

Maggie Metcalfe