[Rick B]

I often get asked about why I like Africa and hear people say they would love to go etc. In fact thinking about it, recently I have been asked more questions on Africa than on Arsenal Tickets!!!

There are a few people on this forum who have visited various countries on this vast continent and can give completely differing views. One view I have always heard though, is anyone who has been and travelled around a bit in Africa fell in love with the place. The people, the scenery, the culture and the children’s innocence. It takes you back and makes you want to go again and again.

I and Judy (Red Agave) have at different times both travelled to Southern Africa and funnily enough it was the fact that both of us had been to a very remote place in Zimbabwe called Sinamatella, which got us really talking one day in the Tavern. Africa does that to you, and anyone that has spent a few days with me can attest how my love of the place comes out when it comes up as a subject.

At present the media perception of Africa is not favourable. It never really has been and unfortunately (as is proven by various comments on this board) many people have a perception that just isn't true. That will not change over night, but if I can just change one person's views by this thread - then it's worth it.

There are various things happening this year involving both members of this board and Arsenal fans. Firstly in June this year I am taking a group of 8 people including myself for three weeks across Zimbabwe, and into Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Those going from here are Judy, Billy (billyho96) and Dave (leepyswetr) and I.

If you are interested in the Itinerary we are doing http://zimbabwe.pbwiki.com/ that is what we will be seeing.

Secondly if you want to find out more about Non Governmental Agencies and Charity work in Africa there are two events which people are involved in who are Arsenal fans and members of Arsenal America.

http://www.eliasfund.org/ is a charity that was set up by the band Dispatch. They raise money for projects in Zimbabwe and its Executive Director is coming on the above trip for a week of it with us. They have organised a festival called:

EliasFest: Voice of the Voiceless

May 5th 2:30 - 9:30

Nara Park - Acton, MA

This will feature several bands and events that will raise money for projects such as building a community centre, looking at irrigation projects and getting involved in projects helping children with HIV/Aids. if you have nothing to do and are nearby that weekend - go along.

Thirdly Dispatch are playing 3 gigs at Madison Sq Gardens in July. There will also be an event in Central Park. I am going to be flying over for this so hopefully will be sinking a few pints with some of the New York contingent on here.

Lastly (so far) I, Eric and others will be going back to Zim in September/October to see how the community centre project is progressing and organise other projects from the proceeds of the funds. If anyone does want to have 6 weeks on a project in Africa and has the time - feel free to PM me for more information.

I am sure that Billy, Dave and Judy will be posting their experiences of Africa when they get back.

[Bluto11]

god I wish i had some money

[Detlef]

Originally Posted by Bluto11

god I wish i had some money

Heidi & I are saving our money for World Cup 2010 to hang out with Rick B

[Publius]

My wife couldn't go during the time frame you're going but she's going with her girlfriends in August.

[Rick B]

The other thing I forgot to mention is that we are all (apart from one) who are going in June, Arsenal fans. So bizarre pictures of Arsenal wearing fans in random places will certainly be taken!! I am also half inclined to take the Arsenal America flag with me................not sure how well that will go down with Mike though!!!

[HighburyGoon]

Originally Posted by Rick B

The other thing I forgot to mention is that we are all (apart from one) who are going in June, Arsenal fans. So bizarre pictures of Arsenal wearing fans in random places will certainly be taken!! I am also half inclined to take the Arsenal America flag with me................not sure how well that will go down with Mike though!!!

That's fine with me, as long as you promise to track down Bobby & Dennis to get them to sign a new one should something happen to it!

[Rungostar]

I've lived and travelled extensively in Eastern and Southern Africa and all I can say is ditto. I'll be moving back there sooner rather than later for a few years.

It's just like no other ...

Once you've been there for a while, you've got to venture out to Mozambique. Its beautiful and the whole Portuguese-African thing is a rarity in Africa. From music to architecture, its really tremendous.

Hopefully, I'll be living in SA by the summer of 2010 and people can swing through for a braii (barbeque) and some drankin.

Ahh ... if only I could leave now ...

[Rick B]

Originally Posted by Rungostar

I've lived and travelled extensively in Eastern and Southern Africa and all I can say is ditto. I'll be moving back there sooner rather than later for a few years.

It's just like no other ...

Once you've been there for a while, you've got to venture out to Mozambique. Its beautiful and the whole Portuguese-African thing is a rarity in Africa. From music to architecture, its really tremendous.

Hopefully, I'll be living in SA by the summer of 2010 and people can swing through for a braii (barbeque) and some drankin.

Ahh ... if only I could leave now ...

I will certainly do so...........I'll be in Harare by then and am doing a trip of loads of people for the WC. So I'll be doing a lot of braii's and organising a lot of beer drinking. Perhaps we can get together and organise stuff re tickets and trips from Harare to wherever you are............

[Bluto11]

guess I should start saving for 2010....

a friend of mine just got back from a year in Port Elizabeth. he lived at the Addo Preserve. was studying elephant behavior for his Masters degree. he loved Africa and got to travel all over South Africa and I think made it as far north as Victoria Falls

[jatm516]

Originally Posted by Rick B

The other thing I forgot to mention is that we are all (apart from one) who are going in June, Arsenal fans. So bizarre pictures of Arsenal wearing fans in random places will certainly be taken!! I am also half inclined to take the Arsenal America flag with me................not sure how well that will go down with Mike though!!!

Pretty ironic that you'll be safer sporting that Arsenal shirt in Africa than you would be in London (at least near WHL). LOL Hell Wenger's probably worshipped like a god down there. (And if someone could please please please take a video camera so we can put the footage to some U2 music and have a laugh, I would really appreciate it.)


Sounds like the trip of a lifetime!!!! Good job putting all that together, Rick. Your wiki page is really turned out great.