Stark contrasts

Its actually good to be back in Kathmandu. I'm coming to share the view of many urban Nepalis that visiting "the village" for a few days is very pleasant, but living there long term would be unbearable.



I've spent most of the last two weeks in the west of Nepal evaluating some of the work that has been done over the last few years.

My team went from the luxury of Kathmandu to the district centre of Rukum, where the cleanliness of the best accommodation available sent my newest Nepali staff member into culture shock.

She's a city girl who's worked in England but never visited the western part of her own country. Thankfully she recovered quickly and by the time we arrived at the communities we're here to help was actively engaging with the work and enjoying the experience.



One area in particular was a stark example to me of the obscene contrasts we live with. When UMN and its local partner organisation arrived there three years ago there had been absolutely no outside assistance.

This is a largely forgotten area which has neither the photogenic attraction of the high mountains or the accessibility of villages nearer the cities.

The houses are mud and stone, water has to be fetched from streams and firewood collected from the forest. The food is limited and every meal looks the same. There are few phones, even fewer toilets and no electricity, so no television.

Even if you have money the nearest shops are about five hours walk away, and then not very impressive – so you'd probably choose to move away as many do.



It's far from the first time I've been in such places, but still good to be reminded what life is like for many people in this country.

I'm back at my desk now with rather a lot to catch up on - and Christmas at church dominating next week - but no shortage of motivation.



Martin Butterworth