Last day at Ndejje

This morning, I was able to wake up and get a few shirts and pants washed before heading on safari for the next week.  At 10, we met the German researches and walked with them to their research site. We have been saying hello and exchanging bits of information when seeing each other on campus, so we asked if we could go see their research site to learn a little more about what they are doing. Albert has committed to a three-year research project working with a recent graduate from Ndejje University.  They take corn waste crops (corn cobs with no corn) and send it through a carbonation process.  Ultimately, they mix the product with a few other things and create charcoal briquettes.  Although this process creates a more expensive charcoal product, it helps save the tress and wood that others use to create charcoal.  They buy the corn waste crops from local farmers to help the local community. In turn, they also sell the products to the community in small packages and in bulk.  The university uses these briquettes in their kitchen when preparing ginormous meals for the students eating on campus.  Although some of the information that Albert gave us was a little over my head, it was interesting to see the machines and learn about the process of making charcoal out of corn waste crops.  On our walk back to campus, Dr. Cathorall and Dr. Brady gave us information on how creating charcoal out of the corn is environmentally, better for the community. Using the corn crops lessen the wood that is collected from deforestation.  It Is also supporting the people and farmers in the community by purchasing the corn waste crops from the famers and giving the community a healthier and safer product to purchase.  Typically, the corn waste is burned, which of course, contributes to air pollution and potential fire and burn injuries.  After that was over, we met some of the students at the local bar to enjoy a few drinks together to celebrate.  It made my heart so incredibly full to see the people who made our trip so memorable gather in celebration.  Ending the night included many tears, laughs, and hugs as we said goodbye to the most amazing people.