Herman and Gerard together on a construction mission in Kaoma, Zambia
BouwenmetBoumas
Herman en Gerard together on a construction misson in Kaoma, Zambia
After 18 years, Herman Bouma hands over his BmB job to Gerard Schoemaker. This is why Herman and Gerard are together on a construction mission in Kaoma for six weeks.
6 September 2024, By Gerard Schoemaker
Project 2024, project 2025 and the job transfer
For me it was the first time for BmB in Zambia. Zambia is familiar territory for me, because from 1992 to 1995 I lived and worked with my family in Manyinga. One day’s travel from here. Herman and a constantly changing delegation from the local BmB Kaoma board showed me literally all the projects that have been built here over the past 18 years. Mainly 2 and 3 classroom blocks, but also the Regina house, the Mothercare shelter and the kitchen of the former orphanage.
The Regina house, the very first project, has now become a kind of community center. At the moment, the largest project to date is being built: 4 spacious technical classrooms, with functional spaces in between for the Kaoma Trade Center. And at the same time, the new BmB guest house, also called “Hermans House”, is progressing steadily. This is intended for us as construction coordinators and other visitors from the Netherlands and Zambia.
Project 2025
We also visited the project for next year, a 3-classroom block in Naliéle. The teachers and the villagers are completely ready for it. The parents have already collected part of the necessary sand using … buckets on their heads. A huge job, almost impossible. That is why the remaining sand and gravel are now being delivered by truck. In January, they will start making the concrete blocks.
We went to Lusaka to buy building materials and all kinds of accessories for the current projects; the Kaoma Tradecenter and the BmB guesthouse. A huge job in this hectic city. Business spirit, efficiency and perseverance were the mantra! Arranging transport to Koama is also no easy task!
In addition, we looked at a number of solid second-hand Toyota Landcruisers with the three BmB Kaoma board members because our current BmB Toyota Hilux has had its best days! In the end, we all agreed on the car that our driver Hamulonda was most enthusiastic about!
What I will always remember from these 6 weeks are the captivating, beautifully musical Catholic masses in the local Lozi language. I could barely suppress the urge to sing and dance along!
I have to do my very best
Herman announced his retirement during the project visit and introduced me as his successor. After 18 years, he has left an unforgettable impression here, as evidenced by the many words of thanks, respect and admiration. Many students in the classrooms immediately knew who he was and spontaneously mentioned his name! Even in church, we were called forward by the priest!
Everyone in Kaoma and the surrounding area realises the void he leaves behind. I am aware I have to do my very best.
Vorderingen Project 2024
