2 versions of original work made in Accra. Had to compress a lot because internet in Ghana is not cooperating. Go figure.
To get a sense for what’s playing on the radio in Accra, this is a combination of two recordings from Peace FM. The first part of the track is a song by Mavis, an artist born out of an American Idol type show in Ghana. The second song is still unknown to me. You will hear horns and other car noises – it was recorded in a taxi.
DADDY LUMBA…LT03 by lionsinthetiles
I know two things about this track: 1. It is by Daddy Lumba 2. Everything about it is incredible. If you’re feeling blue, turn this up.
link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOVxu3zqCQo
Bad lighting, but the sound is all you really need. This is a primary school exercise for learning English in Ghana. Thought it was worth sharing.
Adapting to Life Without Water
The taps have been dry for three days in Newtown. I am fortunate I filled up a bucket before the water went out. I have become a very efficient bather, but my toilet is an absolute nightmare. I am making a documentary on a family of women who sell porridge (the video above is from their house). They also live in Newtown. They need water to make porridge. While they don’t have water in their house, there are taps within a short walk. With those taps shut off, the mother began searching. This involves walking until you see someone with water and then asking them where they got it. Her search took her to Circle, a tro-tro station and market area that is a few miles from where she lives. There she found a woman selling water from poly tanks. She started waiting in line at 3AM. A few hours later, she reached the front. Her daughters then joined her and on the long walk back to Newtown, all three of them carried large buckets of water on their heads. This is expected in rural areas, but it is also common in Accra.
Water and power outages are so typical that Ghanaians offer no reaction when they happen. They don’t get upset or frustrated. There is no surprise or dismay. It is simply a part of life. While you are taking your next long hot shower, keep this in mind. More than anything, be grateful your toilet flushes.
oops commented on the wrong blog. I meant this one – the yas1 and 2 – so awesome Phil!
can you write about internet? i’m intrigued that you don’t have water, but have electricity and internet.
Charley, thanks!
Dan, I don’t have internet. I go elsewhere to use it.