By Susan Allport, Mozambique child sponsor
What a privilege and what excitement as the World Vision vehicle drove into the school yard to begin my return visit after four years.
I could see my sponsored child Marta smiling and jumping up and down in her pretty white dress and colourful beads in her hair. Her younger brother Alfredo, also now attending school, was with her as well as her two best friends that I had met previously.
We exchanged hugs with lots of joy and laughter. “Where’s Jessica?” Marta was asking through our translator. On my previous visit my granddaughter was with me. Marta was very happy later when she viewed photos of Jessica on my phone.
Marta grown up
On my previous visit Marta was a shy, small little girl unable to write her name. Today I could see she had grown tall and strong. Her teacher reported that Marta is learning well receiving 17-19/20 for her monthly tests. Marta’s desire is to be a writer and a poet.
There was full assembly at the school and the children danced and sang their welcome song. The Principal and teachers were so welcoming. Then we went and saw Marta’s family. There was much joy and singing. So very good to see Marta’s mother and her sister.
A new home
On my previous visit Marta’s father had passed away and they were living with her aunty and grandmother. Marta and her family now were in a new home with their own yard just behind their auntie’s home. I learnt it was a humble mud-covered, grass roof home, but it was theirs and it was so good that they had mosquito nets to help prevent malaria! I heard how Marta washes the dishes and carries water to help her mum. The water is not so far now – a pump well is bringing them safe water thanks to World Vision.
With the wonderful help of Mr Francisco, the World Vision translator, we enjoyed a special few hours with the extended family sharing a lovely meal, family news and stories. There was lots of singing and dancing. It was difficult to part, but we hope to see each other in the future.