SWAMPY TALES

“This person we are burying here today was so kind, generous and selfless.” This is a common eulogy line at the edge of a loved one’s tomb. True they deserve it! but did you let them know when they were alive so they can appreciate your gratitude? I do not want to be guilty of the same transgression of exalting the dead to one friend, among many, that have made my life what it is today. Believe me, there are many people you meet in life who contribute massively to your personal development. But there are exceptional ones too! This is a special thank you to a childhood friend, without whom I could not be capable of writing my story for public consumption. Mon ami , Enock Kaputula.  Enock, Melania Kaputula, Kunda, and Charity Londa having fun at Delaine Kaputula's Wedding !  In January 1981, I met Enock at Mungwi Secondary School. A brilliant, athletic, jumpy young boy, dark in complexion, always carrying with him a smiley happy face. I arrived, fresh in my brand-new...

   It all happened like a dream.  Fewer people remained in the village because many were in Nkutu, the seasonal farming camps. The rainy-season weather was cold, with sunshine showing up in an on-and-off pattern. Tall, green grass characterized pathways as the smell of ripe mangoes filled the air.   I woke up to the news that Mungwi Boys Secondary School had selected  us,  with two others.  Rasford was beaming with joy when he came to announce the news, braving heavy morning dew. His admission forms were well-tugged in his pocket when he joked that we had all failed for the second time before he patted me on the back and told me to relax and go and collect my acceptance letter. My heart sunk in relief.  Ten others were to attend different secondary schools from Muwele Primary School in 1981. Our long wait for Grade 7 results finally ended around mid-February. I dashed to see the Headteacher in a flash, Mwansa in tow. I...