Fun Flooding Facts!!!
We’ve used roughly 2700 sandbags[another 1500 coming], 20 pairs of gum boots, 20 pairs of gloves, 15 shovels, rolls of water proof tarp, and probably 400 loads of Calcrete to manage the waters. In addition we’ve had over 50 volunteers who have put in many hours of hard work!!
Update on Love Botswana Campus Flooding
We just wanted to take the time to give you an update on what is happening here at Love Botswana regarding the flooding. The past few days we have been feeling your prayers and really believe that has sustained us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Saturday and Sunday were really the hardest days as the river continued to find its way into any weak spot. As the river rose, sand bag lines gave way, bringing water into the property. Sand bagging is such taxing and tiring work, that our workers were already sore and tired, but they continued on! The “Mighty Men” (Men’s Ministry) left church on Sunday morning to come and help the efforts and help reinforce our sand bag lines.
We are amazed at everyone’s hard work but also how spirits remained high. Breaks were taken to play quick games of soccer or someone would jump in a sand bag and say, “Let’s Race!” Just when the work got hard, someone would break the monotony with a song or joke!
As the river continues to rise it is taking with it most of roads off the property. Due to this, Love Botswana has constructed it’s very own road which will also benefit those living in the areas around us. Tuesday morning the road was opened and we are now able to move on and off the campus a lot easier. As a result, Okavango International School will resume its daily schedule. We consider it a blessing that the school was only closed for two days. The other two days were national holidays in Botswana.
Currently, we are reinforcing our lines and also doing clean up as the waters washed in a lot of junk. It is predicted that the water levels are going to rise another two inches before it levels out. We are adding fence lines, gates, and crosswalks in order to demarcate our property and keep people safe and “on” the road. There are large sand pits in the back that have been dug over the years by area builders. These pits actually helped keep water from forcing its way into our property where the buildings are. However; now they pose a hazard as it gives the appearance of water only 4ft deep, when in reality it is over 30 ft deep in places . We have seen a small calf fall in and two vehicles thought they could pass but flooded instead.
This type of maintenance and clean up will be on going for the next few months. We ask that you continue to pray for us as these next few weeks are the most critical with the river. We believe we are ahead of it for now, but we’ve also learned that things can change at a moments notice. Continue to pray for supernatural strength and wisdom. Also, finances are needed to pay for all the supplies and resources that are being used. If you would like to help please see the “donation” link on the website.
Once again we thank you for your support and prayers; we could not do this without you!
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