We arrived in Iringa about mid-day Saturday and our first stop was Neema Crafts. Neema is the Swahili word for grace and nothing could be more fitting. This workshop sponsored by the Anglican Church employed the deaf and handicapped. In Africa the handicapped are either left to die as infants or they are hidden away. Neema Crafts trains and provides an opportunity for work in weaving, papermaking, textiles, a small shop staffed as well sell the wares. We enjoyed our lunch at the first deaf staffed café.
While we were there we met a group from England that comes once a year to provide medical evaluation and hearing aides for the deaf. We also met lots of students from all over Tanzania who are working with the peace corps and congregating in Iringa for the Easter break. Most are serving as teachers in secondary schools.
The workshop has outgrown its current location and is building a new building adjacent to the Anglican Cathedral. What a wonderful witness and business! Plans are also in the works for a deaf staffed hotel, I hope tot be able to stay there one day as well!
