Wednesday, 6th August

I just spoke to Nicky (9.30am), and she is sitting under a prickly pear tree, having a drink, after a couple of hours of clearing bushes and shrubs. They are currently clearing a landing strip at Kilimatinde, where there is a hospital with 80 beds. The landing strip has not been used for some time, but now it is needed so that very ill patients can be flown in and out quickly. Kilimatinde is on the edge of the great Rift Valley – a vast plain with stunning views in central Tanzania. Last night, Nicky told me, they sat out under the stars watching films of Bible stories – shown for the local villagers. Her favourite actor is Sean Bean, and he happened to star as Aaron in a film about Moses – so she was very happy, as she sat on a granite outcrop, sipping cold water. It is very hot there, but everyone is fine, and they are having a good time. The diet seems to be chicken and rice every day – nourishing, but not very varied.  She sends her love to everyone.  Stephen.