Moving ahead

I wonder what wakes you up in the morning? Maybe it’s the same as us, the steady rumble of heavy lorries outside the window ; hopefully it’s not quite as early as it is here, about 4.45am. They are searching for sand and gravel to build the new road and parade ground in front of the presidential palace. It has to be finished by January to celebrate 50 years of Independence. It is unclear whether this was delayed from the actual date in August because at that time of year it was likely to rain or because of the building works, perhaps a bit of both. The early start is to make sure its ready on time even working Sundays which is a day off for most.
We too are working to a deadline for the official opening the hospital in 3 1/2 weeks . There seems to be plenty to do before this can happen but invitations are being sent and mats and chairs ordered and menus decided on, we may be glad we are being woken at 5 am and kept awake by the call to prayer and sunrise which follows.
Through all of this we have been aware of Gods hand on us we have been able to find nurses and other staff who have a good level of training for us to work with and who are keen to show the love of God in their work. We have had good contacts with local authorities and seen His guidance as we place our orders and make plans as to how the hospital will function. Finally we suddenly received the money we needed just as the bank account was empty and we were considering whether we could really open on time.
So now there are just a few things left to do

1)Finish the sterilisation buildings-windows and doors / mosquito nets/concrete shelves and tiles /paint inside and out

2)Other small building works/ a triage room and new pedestrian gate for the out patients / toilets for the outside carers area /waste disposal area and incinerator.

3)Wait for two consignments of essential equipment and drugs to arrive from Europe by air and clear customs to complete what we have.

4)Run induction courses for the nurses, midwives, pharmacy and lab staff.
Wait for tables and chairs and drip stands to be made locally and buy some other local equipment.

5)Have a final review of the infrastructure and equipment by the Ministry of Development and renew our agreement and contract with the Ministry of Health

It all seems a lot to do so …….we took a break and had a weekend away at the end of half term staying beside the river in a small hotel with swimming pool and visiting some more volcanic rocks this time weirdly eroded into the form of a family of elephants- great fun having a boat ride up stream, now we are fully charged and ready to move with God working together to meet our deadline.