Rubbing Elbows and Thanksgiving

Today we had more meetings at the Ministry of Health (MoH).  The MoH has become like a second home to us on this visit.  They are our most important ally and collaborators.  We have the direction that we need in the final design of our two proposed projects.  The MoH will be reviewing our concept note for the larger of the two. This way we know that it is in line with their strategic health plan.  We are certain that it will be, as we have really done our homework throughout these last 6 years.  There is not a rock unturned…until of course I trip over it. 

Our last meeting with the MoH was with the Minister of Health himself, Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda. Our dear friend and long-time colleague Dr. Nelson Musoba, made it all happen. It was very exciting.  He has a fantastic reputation here in Uganda and is very well respected. He is known to have a great mind and be a good and measured thinker.  We were very impressed.  Turns out we have Bay Area connections.  He is a Cal grad. Go Bears!!  We gave our history and he asked intelligent questions.  In the end, we got his enthusiastic support and endorsement.  This will be very helpful as we look for funding for our projects.  We feel it is so important to have local buy-in and support; one of the many reasons that we have been speaking with so many stakeholders over these years.

Next we went to our beloved Sr. Cathy’s (Gretta Scholar) convent for dinner.  She is in charge of nursing and nursing schools for the Ugandan Catholic Medical Bureau.  This is a big job as they have a huge presence in health.  We stood around the table, filled with local food, and realized that it was Thanksgiving!!  It was a wonderful moment and wonderful evening. We ate pork grilled on sticks, fish heads, sweet and Irish potatoes with ground- nut gravy, cabbage salad and dandelion salad.  It was the best dinner we’ve had in Uganda.  The Sisters knew of our holiday and they made sure that we were well taken care of.  It was another moving moment and another productive day.

We only have two days left and they will be filled with wrap-up meetings.  Woo hoo!  The final stretch.  (MS)