Thursday, March 3rd

Two wells, two very different outcomes.

Today we traveled from Bolga to a village. We had been told that the drilling crew had hit water, and would hold operations to show us the process. When we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by the women singing and dancing. Their songs are about welcome, thanking God for water, giving thanks that through water the children will not be sick, and goodbye. We were told that the women compose these songs the day before the drilling starts. We as a whole group are so moved by their song & dance. We were all had a few tears - they are so joyous about something we take so for granted.
The drilling began again and we saw moisture. They thought they'd hit water at 30m they went to 51m without finding a sufficient amount of water. This was heartbreaking for us, I can't imagine what the people and the WV team felt. They will try another technology (hydro-fracture) tomorrow to see if there is water for a sustainable well. WV had tried to drill in this village once before with no success, the geology is very difficult here.
We traveled to another village where drilling hadn't begun, so were able to see the start. Again we were greeted by song & dance. The crew began and were very close to water when a bolt broke. We took advantage of this hour break to have a tour of the village. We were invited to a young man's home. This was wonderful to have a tour. We were also asked to meet the chief. When drilling resumed, it wasn't very long until they discovered SUFFICIENT WATER!!!! Wow, now the singing began. The women wanted us to dance, so we did, and if Justin shares that video he's in big trouble!! Lutheran's from Mayville dancing African dance gave the locals a good laugh.
Our day ended with praise to God for the water, for the improved life of this village, and for God's faithfulness. Jen