Rammed Earth

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqUW--bB9No

If that link doesn't work then just Youtube "Skills Transfer Project."

This video is about one of the projects the David Rattray Foundation is involved in. The building featured in this video is actually at one of Chad's schools and has just been completed. It is an incredible idea and I have become very close with the guy who is coordinating the building effort (seen in the video as Michael). You will also get to see and hear from Ben Henderson, whom I coordinate with quite a bit, as well as Tom Boardman, the chairman of the board.

If I haven't mentioned the Rattray Foundation before, allow me to take a step back. David Rattray was a renowned historian of the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War. He opened a lodge in the area on the old Rattray farm across the Umzinyathi river. He became involved with the local schools in the area during this time. Unfortunately he was murdered in 2007 and the David Rattray Foundation (and David Rattray Memorial Trust) was set up to continue the work David had begun in the local schools and communities. The foundation is now in the hands of Ben Henderson (CEO) and it was at his request that Peace Corps placed the four volunteers in the area. The DRF sponsors 15 schools in the area, both primary, secondary, and combined. The two schools where I now volunteer fall under this umbrella, as do the schools that Chad, Katie, and Anna work with.

Ben has been an invaluable resource in my work here and will continue to be throughout my service. I have also had the pleasure to become acquainted with Nicky Rattray, who currently oversees the lodge (Fugitives Drift Lodge) and has graciously opened it up to us before for a hot shower and finely cooked meal!