Plastic bags,boots,caps,solar cream and mosquito repellent; we were well armed and thrilled to write another chapter in ELI Africa’s history.
At eight, we were en route to collect propagules for our mangrove planting event which would be held on the following day. We had to collect at least 1000 propagules before high tide and we were only six in numbers. At first, we thought that it was going to be difficult task, especially due to the rough seas, but our determination for a more sustainable world won over our fear.
As soon as we arrived at Providence, we paved our way to designated area to collect propagules. While some of us were busy trying to figure out how to pick the propagules which were on the high branches, the others were enjoying themselves playing in the mud while picking the propagules which were within their reach.
The marshy land made it really difficult to move around and my feet even got stuck. While I was terrified when I found myself stuck in the swamps, my friends just laughed at me. But fortunately they crossed over and pulled me out.
In the end though, we had an amazing time. We laughed at Karishma’s ‘local fisherwoman look’, groaned at Shamick’s constant complaints about the bad odor of the marshy land, and were pleasantly surprised to see our new volunteer Pranay’s dedication to the cause. Kimii was so excited to participate that she kept us all in high spirits in spite of the heat and exhaustion.
Tomorrow we are off to plant these propagules at Providence and Bois des Amourrettes. We are confident that today’s hard work will surely pay off as we celebrate the success of tomorrow’s planting event.
Ritesh Isuri
Nice! xD xD