The last 3 days volunteering here in Uganda have once again reminded me why cricket is such a powerful vehicle for connection, confidence and joy. Each day in Bukedea has brought new challenges, fresh inspiration and countless reasons to smile.
Lunchtimes have become a firm favourite. The much-loved Ugandan ‘Rolex’ — a chapati rolled with eggs and vegetables — always goes down a treat with this group. Today, however, there was a welcome upgrade: the addition of a samosa! It’s a small touch, but after long mornings in the heat, that extra bite felt like a feast.
The contrasts we’ve witnessed today have been striking. At one private secondary school, we were greeted by facilities that would rival many back home — a pristine football stadium, a basketball arena and a swimming pool. Yet just a short drive away, several primary schools had no sports equipment at all. No balls, no cones, no kit. And yet, the enthusiasm and gratitude in those settings were every bit as immense — if not more so.
As always, our team pulled together brilliantly to overcome logistical hurdles and unpredictable weather. The standout example came at an incredible primary school where torrential rain left the fields completely flooded. Plans for outdoor cricket were quickly abandoned, but spirits never dipped. We shifted into classrooms and made use of an empty space roughly the size of a typical UK lounge — promptly christened ‘Lord’s’. With just eight tennis balls and plenty of imagination, we entertained 90 children in that tiny room. The energy was electric. The most engaged, smiling, joyful group you could hope to meet, supported by teachers who threw themselves into every drill and game. That little classroom was buzzing more than Lord’s Cricket Ground ever has!
It’s hard to choose a single best moment. Perhaps it was that session in ‘Lord’s’. Or maybe it was our spontaneous end-of-day stop at a nursery when we found ourselves with unexpected spare time — an explosion of singing, dancing and beaming smiles.
Tomorrow brings our festival, a chance to reunite with so many wonderful children and inspiring teachers we’ve met this week. We’ll be sad to leave Bukedea — an amazing, friendly and welcoming community that will stay with us forever.
Holly
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