Social Event for the Zimbabwe Group

It was a sunny day in Firhouse last Saturday (27th September) when members of the Amnesty International/Irish Section/Zimbabwe Group and also some native Zimbabweans, not part of the Amnesty group, gathered for a Barbecue. The social event was enjoyed by everyone and there was an audible hum in the air from all the chatter. I met some of my Zimbabwean friends and others I had never met before and the atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant, sadly unlike what many millions of people are currently experiencing in that once prosperous land-locked southern African nation.

Even though there was an awareness of the awful hardships of the people in their native land, the Zimbabweans I talked to were in good spirits. One thing I have understood about Zimbabweans is the love they have for their homeland and there was a considerable amount of conjecture on the problems facing Zimbabweans everywhere (exiled citizens face difficulties too).

But the Barbecue was being held as a break from the heavy, daily worries of our Zimbabwean friends and no sooner had the charcoal been lit then we were all munching away at the food that everyone provided. Traditional Zimbabwean food was available for everyone to eat. I contented myself with the standard sausages and chicken breast with a smattering of salad. A wonderful time was had by all and by the end of the day everyone was filled with food and also with enjoyment. I was struck by the hospitality radiated by the hosts.

All of us from the Zimbabwe Group would like to extend our gratitude to Tendai and her family for hosting the Barbecue.