It is weekend

Saturday 30th October 2013. What a week it has been. The days have flown by. It is Saturday morning and we first call in to the Prescafé where we had a wee chat with headmaster Henry. After we drained our coffee cups we went off to market. Always an experience worth having. Colour, spices, noise, meat, fish, people. Oh such a sight to behold.

Saturdays holds an extra attraction- the Hairdresser. No one on one treatment. The women are lined up  in a row and cut and braided collectively. Quite an amazing sight.


Sunday, a day of rest of prayer and R & R. A small group of us went to the church service, we turned up a wee bit on the late side so only managed to attend part of the service- still we were there.

We hadn't planned a gathering- everyone was free to do their own thing. In the afternoon Jaap and I went for some refreshments to the Veteran Café. The beer was cold and thirst quenching.

Our evening meal was provided by sister Rose, Just our venture there was an experience I wouldn't have wanted to miss. what an expedition. I was glad we finally arrived in tact. What made it al worth while was the food- the most delicious fish meal EVER in all of Bamenda. We traveled back via a better route-thank goodness!

Off to Ndop

Today we want to spend some time with the women in Ndop. These women have collectively hired about 5 hectare of fertile fields where the aim to cultivate beans and corn. Once they are more settled in what they do, they want to expand their range.

The group we met consisted of approx 25 women. A few of these women had leadership tasks one of whom almost finished her agricultural diploma.

Generally the yield is used for own consumption, the rest is sold to supplement incomes and buy new seeds. A win win situation.

We thoroughly enjoyed meeting these keen and dedicated women. Once again we were impressed with their perseverance, commitment and fortitude.

Later that afternoon we made our third school visit and not unexpectedly we again enjoyed the visit immensely. One of the children hogged my lap and others crowded around Jaap en Hans receiving lots of attention.

All in all another satisfying and thought provoking day!

With Bertrand to Belo

In Belo we visited a high school. The school boasts 600 pupils some of which have a hearing impairment. Bertrand is one of the teachers their. He wanted us to see how the school operated and felt honoured to be able to accompany him to the school.

Here the students with hearing impairments are not isolated. They are in combined classes with their peers. All students are capable of using sign language so there is no communication barrier. During a lesson the teacher verbally explains the lesson material and then a classmate/student translates it into sign language for the other students. It is quite amazing to see how these student interact with each other. Impressive.

Our arrival called for an official sort of welcome. In the chapel we were greeted with song and dance. The deaf students also performed and there was a teacher available who translated all which was said. Everyone joined in- no exclusions.

After this warm greeting we were given a guided tour of the school and it's grounds. Bertrand had requested we might take upon us the care for 10 students. Find sponsors for them. We took photos of these students, it was a fun meeting. I think I am going to have to dive into the sign language culture and make it my one. I think I will be needing it in future.

We returned to Bamenda and the Centre where we were housed and shared a night

cap with Mr Fon and Tanyl. They were extreme curious as to our experience in regard to the iPad and wanted to know all that had transpired yesterday.

We treated ourselves to a lovely dinner in a restaurant behind Commercial Avenue- and

dived into bed for a restful sleep and energy top up!

A hectic full on satisfying day

It is the Thursday 24th of October. After a hearty breakfast we started the day with renewed optimism and energy. We sorted some of the items we brought for people and then proceeded to the Prescafé for a meeting with Henri and Irene. Irene had a lot of the information we needed on paper ( seeing my iPad was missing) that was helpful indeed and a much needed support.

A small contingent of people left from the Prescafé to go to the Wakka Centre. As I wasn't part of the party and it wasn't necessary to return to the Baptist Centre, I stayed behind and enjoyed a lunch. Because we have made a few trips here now and we frequent the Prescafé on occasion, we feel quite at home here and get to know the locals better each time.

Here  comes what happened next:

When my iPad was stolen yesterday we learned from one of the staff that there is only one Apple store in Bamenda. We rang there to notify them that my iPad had been unlawfully taken, just incase someone came to ask how to solve ' a possible login problem'

While waiting with Betrand, Marianne and Hans for Jaap and Peter-Paul to visit the school the owner appeared and started a conversation. I suddenly had a brainwave and asked him if he knew where the Apple store in town was. And wouldn't you know it- it was almost across the street from where we sat.

After Jaap returned from his visit to Wakka I suggested we may just pop into the store to put a face to the claim that we were the owners of the allegedly 'borrowed'  iPad. As it turned out someone had been in requesting a new password  for the iPad. The staff had, after sending the person home asking him to return later, informed the police who in turn picked up the young man and the iPad was given to the police. At this point they weren't aware we had been the victims of the alleged theft.

We were told to which police station we needed to go. As we were curious to know if this was MY iPad we immediately proceeded to go to the police station accompanied by Bertrand. At the counter the staff were in the dark about all the events and sent us elsewhere to another police station with our questions. There too they were totally in the dark. But, they did want the Apple Store phone number.

Off we toddled back to the Apple Store. There they gave us the name of the inspector we needed to contact. Back we toddled again to the police station only to be told the said inspector was in a meeting and be available after 16:30.

Hi ho hi ho it was off to our second school visit we go- we may as well keep our schedule going. We do after all have the care for a second group of children who also deserve our attention.

After our visit and the photo session we returned to the police station. We were put on hold again. Our patience being sorely tested. Finally the inspector arrived. We filled in the necessary paper chain and had to prove ownership of the iPad. Wouldn't you know it, no WiFi at the police station ppffff...!! Off to the Baptist Centre we trot with the police on our heels. We successfully started up the iPad and on screen was the message Jaap had placed telling of the alleged theft together with his mobile number. When Jaap could prove to the inspector that this was indeed his phone number the iPad was returned to us as rightful owners. We closed the session with coffee all round as a somewhat larger curious crowd had gathered to follow the proceedings.

Peace and justice al last- we could relax. Hoera hoera!!

Day one: off to school

Our first day in Bamenda started on a cheery note. After breakfast a meeting with Mr. Fon and Mr. Tanyi. It was a catchup conversation about all we have experienced and plans were made about all we hope undertake while here.

After they left a not so nice incident took place: iPad gone!

This is how it happened.


While we were in discussion with Mr. Fon and Mr.Fanyi I used my iPad, which doubles as my diary these days. Once the gentlemen left i closed my iPad and tucked it safely into my bag.

During our talk a young man had entered the room and had taken a seat to far from where we were seated. Not unusual for a place like the centre- it is a coming and going of individuals all day long. Quite public in fact. Also, there was a rather large meeting being held as well.

The young man appeared to be waiting for someone so we paid him little attention, thinking he knew his way round and was expected. After our conversation had ended one of our friends asked me something - I stood up, leaving my bag on the seat and talked to her. This exchange lasted no more than a few minutes- I turned back to the seat, packed my bag a realised the iPad was missing. You had guessed that much hadn't you? We asked around, also noticing the young man was missing and it appeared no-one knew this person. A complete stranger to them all. They actually thought he was part of our party.

We approached security whom in turn informed the police. Our main hope was- that the iPad would be found. So irritating and unsettling. Also because all our data was on the iPad, appointments, information and contacts. To be continued.....

Time had come to visit the school we had scheduled for today. That was one of the highlights of the day. The welcome once again heart warming. Jaap en Hans also received big hugs. After a meeting and conversation with the principle Henri and our support person Irene we made a group photo. Always nice to look back on later.We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and all the activities we witnessed. The carers appeared to become more relaxed and open in their sharing with us- and the personal questions relating to our health and travel experiences were fired at us in quick tempo. We shared some refreshments with Henri and Irene and returned satisfied to the Baptist Centre for dinner.

All in all a positive day with more highs than lows!

Bamenda here we come!

Tuesday morning arrived a bit sooner than we would have liked, and although we had a short night we slept well. There is a mass happening in the mission post and we manoeuvre ourselves through the crowd cautiously and with care. Our personal luggage returned onto the bus and the excess will go with the local transport service with Amour Mezan. They will see to it that this is delivered to Bamenda.

Traveling becomes easier now with less baggage. We observe nature's beauty as we travel on our way. Birds, flowers- lots of both. The crops also look healthy and lush. Beans aplenty we note.

We stopped for a quick lunch and prepared for the last few miles. Especially Gonnie, she was excited and could wait to get there. If she had wings she would fly.

What a wonderful reception. All our friends were there waiting to embrace us. We unloaded our luggage as the bus driver had to get the rest of the luggage from the bus station. Then we could finally launch ourselves into the welcoming arms of all those pleased to see us. We were officially welcomed by Fon and Tanyl.

It was important to run through our diary appointments together to coordinate the visits. We could count on their assistance and support.

We were once again subjected to the warm and loving care of those in the Baptist Centre, Cathy provided us with a delicious meal.

Time to fly

It is early Monday morning. Our fellow travelers have arrived at our hotel De Watertoren in Dordrecht.  First things first- coffee for everyone followed by stashing the ample luggage in the cars.


Then. all set to go,  we made our way to Brussel's  Airport. Unfortunately at the check in counter we didn't only have an excess weight problem but one suitcase too many. That meant pay up. If that's our only hiccup this trip- well what's a few extra kilos between friends! We counted our blessings.


The journey went on without another hitch and before we knew it our baggage was gliding down the baggage carrier. The taxi-van was at hand. I can't remember when we had such a smooth Douala Airport-arrival experience.


Well, then a little hiccup followed. There was no room at the proverbial Inn. We were meant to stay a night at the Baptist Centre but there were no beds available. Our driver provided information for an alternative and that hitch too was easily resolved. We ended up not by the Baptists but the Catholic Mission Post. Also comfortable- and sleep we did.

Hotel De Watertoren - Dordrecht, Nederland

Just can't stay away. Second trip in 2013

Sunday 20 October 2013.  It is time, time for another visit. Our holiday destination- Bamenda.

Our holidays have started and tomorrow we leave for Bamenda in Kameroen. Once again we will be traveling with a group. Ten of us will fly out together and we are all looking forward to seeing our friends and acquaintances there again.

We fly out of from Brussel Airport on Monday at 14:30 and all things being equal we will arrive in Douala at 21:30. Tuesday, after a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast we will continue on to Bamenda.

Once again our itinerary is filled with school visits, a photo shoot of the children and a meeting with their carers. We have made a schedule to fit all this in already, after all we want to utilise our time there to the max.

And, seeing we are combining this visit with our holiday we do hope for a couple of leisure days to look around and relax.

It is my aim to log each day to the best of my ability and share our experiences with you. Hopefully I will also be able to add a photo or two every now and then.

Kick off for the veteran soccer team

It may not have escaped your attention, the people of Kameroen loves soccer. Bamenda residents are no different. There are a number of competitions and the veterans of Bamenda also play competitively.

Kick off

The teams are made up of players from different villages and are multi talented and share as common bond- the love of the game. Only goes to prove a point, that sport unites! The Bamenda veteran team also plays benefit games so as to support local initiatives. When we were here last, they had already started to support the Wakka centre.

Gonnie had the honour of opening the game with the kick off and the mayor of Dordrecht was present at the final. This year too, they will continue to support the Wakka centre. Once again Gonnie was asked to kick off the game.

Before they started, the team first wanted to visit the centre and deliver their gifts of soap and rice. How wonderful is that?!

After returning to the field and taking part in a photo shoot it was tine for Gonnie to proceed to the centre mark. She was so fast and kicked the ball so hard we weren't able to get a good shot. We will be checking cameras to see if we can spot the ball somewhere!!!!

After that we quickly changed our clothes and proceded to the palace of the Fon. In August last year the Fon visited Dordrecht. At every visit to Bamenda the Fon invites us to a meal at the palace. As per usual the hosts were most congenial and it was good to reacquaint ourselves with the Fon's wife.

The team
T.E.A.M.= Together Everyone Achieves More

Official opening

Our day started with breakfast at 7am, after which we dressed in our Sunday best - in this instance in our African clothes, to attend the official opening and associated celebrations.

Close to Guzang we stopped and paid a visit to an orphanage there. We had been there on a previous visit  and it was good to see the familiar faces of the couple who run this orphanage. These children are at a disadvantage due to their backgrounds. A few volunteers and this dedicated couple give these children, aged from 3 to 18 years of age, a chance to grow, develop and eventually attain a dignified place within the community. They receive an abundance of loving care, go to school and help in the garden and with the general running of the orphanage. In doing so they acquire skills that will help them later to earn their keep.

Upon arrival we were greeted most cordially by the carers and their charges. The children had even practiced and performed a special welcome song for us. We were quite moved. It was also a pleasure to see them all looking so well and happy.

After this visit we continued on to Guzang. A greeting was held at the palace of the Fon (ruler) of Guzang. After a short speech we finally proceded to the opening. of the Health Centre.

A large number of people had already gathered and waited patiently for the festivities to start. They were dressed in their most colourful clothes. This event called for respect and great joyfulness. The centre was seen as a realisation of something VERY special. After all, health is an important issue for all.

The speeches were accompanied by music and dance. Beautiful to watch. As expected we danced alongside our hosts. During the festivities the SSBK team were presented with a surprise gift. They were draped in impressively beautiful cloaks. The rest of the team were also spoilt with a bag of ' goodies' consisting of a tumbler made from calebas and also a lovely necklace for the ladies. We were humbled and gratefully surprised.

After this it was time to cut the ribbon and be taken on a tour of the centre.

To finalise the day we all enjoyed a festive, delicious meal.

What a day, what an experience!

Wakka Centre

Today the group visited the Wakka Centre. The Wakka Centre is a project from the Dordrecht-Bamenda Foundation, with Gonnie Walrecht as initiator. Due to Gonnie's drive we became involved with our water and other projects in Cameroun.

Tending to the chickens

The Wakka Centre is a 24 care centre for children between 4 and 18 years old with handicaps. It isn't totally completed as yet, but is already functional.

There is great excitement when any visitors arrive. With our arrival the children too know to expect  gifts, like puzzles for instance.

At the centre the children are guided and taught some basic survival skills. They are involved with caring for chickens, growing vegetables and such like. It is the intention of those running the centre that these children can, even in a small way, contribute to their own survival and also be able to take place in the community in a participational role.

With pride they showed us how they cleaned the water in the chicken run by removing the droppings. Gonnie was honoured with being allowed to hold a chicken.

Today was gardening day. Side by side we planted a variety of plants, like the peppermint plant. We also helped tie up the yam plants.

It is good to see that these children are being given the opportunity to develop these skills for their future well being.

Time to plant out the seedlings

Our second school visit

After the relaxed yet impressive visit to Guzang is it time to address one of my projects on the 'to-do' list. This time we concentrate on the second groep of orphan and in care children.

But first off, we had an important issue to address. Yesterday, while visiting the Health Centre, someone in the group asked, " where is the fridge"? and after asking round we were told there wasn't one.

If the staff needed vaccins, someone would hop on the scooter and go to the hospital and get them. So after dinner and a discussion ont eh matter we decided to purchase a fridge and present it to the Health Centre at the opening on Saturday. Hence, the need to first visit the shops and choose a suitable fridge. After arranging transport to have the fridge delivered was this task completed, so we then continued with our daily planning.


After a lovely lunch 5 of us continued on to the school. Uopn arrival the carers and pupils were al waiting to welcome us. It continues to enthrall me how cheerful and excited the children are each time we visit. The recognition on their faces as we get closer, the children who know me by name. It is quite touching.

As the rains approached we quickly started with the task of taking photos. Individual as well as group photos. Before you could say " Jack Robinson' the task was completed.

After a chat with the principal we all shared a nice cup of coffee.

Our visit to the Health Centre

Unpacking the laboratory equipment

It is the 1st of May and Labour Day in Cameroun and a public holiday. We are off to the Health Centre in Guzang where the last details are being laid in preparation for the opening this coming Saturday- 4th May 2013. This is a project from our fellow travelers from Hulshorst and Epe. The SSBK Foundation.

Over the past few years they have been instrumental in refurbishing the old centre. An additional space  has been built which functions as a meetin

g place for the population, generally mothers, who gather here for parental guidance and other educational health issues. Just as in the Netherlands, parents are invited and advised to have their children medically checked at regular interval, to be vaccinated and screened. This invitation/ request if often issued through the church and parents generally give heed to this call.

On my last trip to Kameroen I personally was witness to such a gathering- and what a huge number of parents with their children presented themselves. Unbelievable. It left a huge impression on me.

On our way to the waterfall

Whilst our fellow travelers, together with the personal from the centre in Guzang made the last preparations, I went to the laboratory to gift the equipment I was given by my former employer. After I explained how some of the equipment was to be used- I received a warm thank you and know for a fact that these articles were gratefully received.


To conclude our visit and to allow the staff to attend a meeting our guide took us first by car and then led us down a narrow path to the local waterfalls. After quite some scrambling over this untamed terrein, we arrived at this spectacular spot. Awesome!

When we returned to the Health Centre the meeting was adjourned . The women had, as per usual, provided food for a feast- which we thoroughly enjoyed. All in all another succesful day.

I will post a report on the festivities after the opening on Saturday.

Funeral ritual

It was a special feast day in the Netherlands today. After more than 130 years a king would be crowned- Koning Willem Alexander. We dressed in the appropriate colour - Orange, our attempt to unify us with the home front. We were kept informed of some of the festivities via CNN.

Hier in Bamenda we too were privileged to attend a special celebration. We were invited to attend the funeral of the mother of the Fon ( elected village head) of Bamenda Kwe. Kwe is a fondom ( village) north of Bamenda.

Due to our intense contact with Mr Tangy, the head of the fondom- like our mayor, and also because that is where our water project was realised- our whole contingent was invited to participate in this ritual.

Ritual dance at the funeral in Bamenda Kwe

This was a celebrational funeral. Due to the position of the family many dignitaries were in attendance. Many of these high positioned visitors were from the surrounding villages. Dance groups from these other villages also took part in the ceremony. To honour the deceased and their family - many dances were performed as a mark of respect.

Dance groups from various villages attended the funeral.

After we greeted the Fon ( elected village head) we were requested to take our places on the front row- as honoured guests. The respect we held for each other was mutual. Quite special to have such ties. It was alos permissible to take photos during the ceremony. Funnily enough we were also subject of curiosity. If memory serves me, we were also photographed at least 50 times.

After a 4 hour session of dance and other rituals we left the gathering. One last applause and bow to the village head ( Fon) and we returned to our vehicle and back to our lodgings.


On our return journey we discussed the uniqueness of this experience which none of us would have wanted to miss.

Corn project

- A new initiative - corn fields!

Today we also met 5 women who have started a new project. All 5 are widowed and need to earn money to take care of their families. The rented a piece of land, cleared it and prepared it for planting. A crop of corn has been sowed. According to the photos we were shown, the project is off to a good start.

What a great initiative from these women.

We will  be visiting this project shortly. More to follow as we keep you informed!

School visit

Monday gets onto a good start with a delicious breakfast consisting of French toast with syrup. Today we start with visits to some of the various projects we support in this region. All the appointments have been made so we all know what our programme is for the day. The school visit has been planned for in the afternoon, with special focus on the orphanage.

Four of us share a taxi to school. It is a sharp contrast to our ' luxurious! bus'  journey from the day before. After a few sharp, hair raising bends- one adjusts. The taxi is no bigger and we all fit comfortably. One feels safe going round the corners.

After 20 minutes we arrive at our destination. A warm greeting with hugs and handshakes. There is a meeting with the principal in his office and a photo session. Everyone is in form and it is a lighthearted and festive occasion. There are photos of the carers and their children. Some pose ' a la natural - others take on a more ' model'  pose.  
It is wonderful to see that the children who remember me from my previous visit shyly greet or wave to me in recognition. Even the carers are shy and slightly reserved. We are abundantly embraced.

Our trip to Bamenda in Cameroun

Finally we are packed and ready for our journey to Bamenda.

At 6:30 we leave Dordrecht and head to Brussel Airport. Here we meet up and spread our luggage amongst ourselves, some having more than others. Yes, we had more than we were allocated. After explaining our mission and the staff having discussed with others, we were allowed to proceed - at NO EXTRA COST, thank you staff at Brussel Air. We appreciate your cooperation enormously.

After a uneventful yet pleasant flight we arrive at our destination where it is extremely warm. We need to make quite an adjustment as we experience a temperature difference from 5 degrees at leaving Brussels in the morning- to 30 degrees on arrival in Douana.

After a short wait our suitcases appear on the bagage carousel. We collect them and proceed to the awaiting ini bus. It's not what you know, but who you know - via a friend from a friend who knows a friend, we were able to load our luggage at the door instead of having to drag everything down flights of stairs. We certainly avoided a lot of stress and were once again grateful for small mercies.

After pushing, shoving and flexing our muscles all was loaded and we were off to our first stopover for a good nights rest.

Everything was unloaded and stored in a room. We all managed to find our overnight bags, exchange thoughts, enjoy some food and refreshments and off to bed we went.

The next morning we were up at the crack of dawn- needing time to reach our end destination, Bamenda. So after an enjoyable, sturdy breakfast we proceeded on our way. While trying to reload the bus we are all agreed, we cannot take all the luggage with us so some was transferred to the local travelling centre to be transported by bus. After having done that we are raring to go.

For those first timers travelling with us, it's all new. The sights and experiences are both colourful and impressive. Gives much food for discussion. For those of us returning the sights are familiar yet still as intriguing.

As it is Sunday we are confronted with a rainbow of colours as  people are either going to or coming from church, dressed in their colourful outfits. A beautiful sight. After a stop for lunch and a bumpy 7 hour trip we finally reach our destination. Ah, the relief - a toilet at last!

We sort out our rooms and freshen up. Time for a meet and greet! The journey has taken it's toll- over dinner we share notes and experiences and then it is time for bed.

Good night all and till next time! Joke and crew!

Co-ordination skills

For the children who are physically challenged we are able to provide these wonderful toys and activity supplies to help children in a fun way strengthen for example their hand - eye coordination.

Not only are these items attractive they serve a very important purpose so that the teachers and parents have supplies to work with. The Foundation is Renske extremely grateful for this generous gift. We are also very pleased with the English translation and instructions provided by Renske. A very BIG thank you, Renske!

Preparations well underway

Easter has come and gone. It is now time for the more serious preparations for our impending trip to get underway. The first suitcase with clothing is jam packed and almost exceeds it's maximum weight. I am also able to take with me some school supplies such as pens and pencils and of course the donated laptops. For the Health Centre in Guzang we have some supplies for their laboratory- with thanks to my ex-colleagues there.

Our contacts in Bamenda are  are anxiously awaiting our arrival. Everyone seems very excited if the emails and messages are anything to go by. The malaria pills have been acquired and the necessary injections inflicted. Roll on April the 27th.

In the group of 10 travelers are Board Members from 3 different Foundations. We will be sharing experiences, ideas and problem solving issues. It is great to have each others support as there are always unknown or unexpected hurdles to conquer. We will have an opportunity to take a peek at various projects and meet the people involved.

Whilst we aren't anticipating major problems it is a comfort to know we are all working towards the same goals and intend to enjoy our time away by combining 'work'  with pleasure.

Unexpected surprises

To our great surprise and joy we received two unexpected donations for our Foundation for which we are extremely grateful. The family Kegel gifted us a generous €75,00 and from Mrs Schouster a princely amount of €150.00. Our gratitude goes out to these two benefactors.
We als received a number of laptops from Mr de Preter for our school. To him also our grateful thanks. With much pleasure we will take these with us on our visit at the end of April.

Sponsor a child

We are pleased to announce that 31 of the orphan children in our second group have found sponsors. Although this gives reason for celebration we are still on the look out for 29 sponsors for the remainder of these children.

Our plea! Spread the news, ask family members, friends, collegues,  neighbours or aquaintances whether they might be interested to support a child for the sum of €75,00 per year.

Feel free to contact us for more information. In anticipation: Our thanks.

Today is the day....

Today is the day that I take over the reigns and add information on the Blog myself. Jaap and I wish to thank Anita Fijnekam for her time and effort to assist us with this step - to make use of the social media - Blogger and Facebook. That way we hope to reach more people and gain more support in our efforts to help those in need. Anita, thank you so much for your time and we are glad to be able to rely on your ongoing support, especially with the translation into English. A big hug from us both.

Ongoing developments

It has taken a wee while to get all the Foundation's information online. We hope that all  those interested  in any or more of the projects supported by the Foundation will not only support it in word but also in deed.

It is the Foundation's intention to use the gifts for which they are intended. So if you specify a project then that project will benefit.

For more information one can always contact Joke and Jaap through this site. Leave them a message of encouragement. That support is appreciated also.

Do you know of any firms that may be able to donate some of the items listed on the School page for instance - pass this on to Joke and Jaap. Maybe you have contacts in the right places. Use these for the children.

T.E.A.M. = Together Everyone Achieves More!

A visit from the local press

Last Friday afternoon Hans Huisman from the local digital newspaper called in and interviewed Joke and Jaap Bloeme about their Foundation. He was interested to hear how the foundation started and what the future plans were regarding the activities that Joke and Jaap have their minds set on. When the article is online a link will be posted to it... and no doubt a translation will be made available.

Keeping tabs

Although the location isn't exactly around the corner, Joke and Jaap do visit Bamenda at regular intervals. Sometimes as a couple and somtimes Joke is accompanied by interested parties. They have become avid globetrotters.

The planning has begun for another visit.

Progres, planning and other interesting titbits will be loggen on this BLOG- so stay tuned.

This BLOG has the purpose of informing all those interested of the projects supported by the GOFUA Foundation. This foundation has the vision to help improve the health, lifestyle and future of the children ( and their parents) of Bamenda, Cameroon. Feel free to regularly visit the BLOG to keep up to date on the developments of each project which will be posted on a regular basis. You are also asked, most sincerely to not only support the foundation with your interest but you are also asked to be motivated to support the initiatives financially. The work Joke and Jaap Bloeme have started has already realised the presence of a water well in the village.
It will take a wee while to get this BLOG fully operational, during which time the important work will continue.