Day 10: Community Meeting

A community meeting was held today. We discussed with the community elders what the expectations of these projects are and looked for approval and input from them. The meeting went well and we came to several agreements on where the first drip irrigation system will be placed and how the water plaza/solar array will be maintained and fixed. We also discussed the need for a way to shade the Polytank in the water plaza from the sun and the possibility of a mechanical pump. The community in general seemed enthusiastic about our plans, and we hope that this joint enthusiasm will provide the teamwork we need to make this project a success. Pok also urged the community to take advantage of our assistance while we are here and do their part to take responsibility for what we are providing. He also advised us that we shouldn't get the expectations of the community too high at this time, but instead should focus on planning for future projects after we have successfully gotten the water plaza to work again and the test drip irrigation system built.

Pok also explained that we were like the lifting of a bucket to the knee that the community must raise up themselves (a local proverb). The Chief himself spoke that he was very thankful that we have come, but expressed concern for families in Yua to be able to monetarily contribute to a fund to support any repairs of the water plaza. An extensive amount of Fra Fra ensued among the people within the meeting, especially Pok and Moses. The community agreed that a bank account would be a plausible plan, and Pok mentioned later that the produce from the drip irrigation systems could also be sold to support this fund.

The elders were such a focused group of people, who truly care about the well being of the people within Yua. It is our hope that they are not afraid to express their opinions with us and give all the input possible. Matt and Kate emphasized the need for their communication with the drip irrigation. That they are the farmers and know this land best, therefore what they make of our system will determine how well it works.

I have to say, the atmosphere of these meetings is a wonderful change to the school settings we are accustomed to. Around us children were playing along with goats, pigs, and chickens running about. The warm breeze under the shade of the tree, simply brilliant!

Anna