Zambia has quite a few holidays. This day was "Youth Day", a national holiday and we ventured down to the Kafue river and the town of Kafue to see what was going on. We took this selfie because we still think of ourselves as youth - even if it is only in our own minds.
National holiday or not, it seems the farm work never quits.
There are some beautiful farms here. Very pastoral looking.
Many large estates, mostly large corporations or owned by Zimbabwe farmers that were pushed out.
We found a celebration of youth in the town of Kafue. It was held on the local football (soccer) field.
All the local youth were dressed in their school or club costumes.
Most were waiting for their turn to perform.
Everyone was happy and wanted their photo taken.
Prizes were awarded in different categories so the competition was studied carefully.
These two guys were having a great time.
Some groups did traditional dancing.
The dancing was intense.
I am afraid I didn't catch the real significance but when the dust flew from this "bird" or whatever, everyone cheered.
Everyone paid close attention.
I just loved studying their faces.
Some groups gave readings or oration that was well rehearsed.
Some groups sang.
Some of the groups were practicing and warming up. But really, like everywhere in the world, it was a chance to impress the boys while they played drums.
There drumming was really good and it would be easy to get into the rhythm of the dance.
These three looked like scouters but I wasn't sure.
Some groups marched.
Most wanted their photo taken. I "bombed" this photo.
This young man kept asking me to take his photo so I finally did and he gave me a smart salute.
Parents around the world are the same. Coaching, primping, and beaming with pride.
Food and drink was available.
On the way home it was back to life as usual.
This young lady was just hanging out by the railroad crossing.
This is the Kafue River. From this point it hurries down the Kafue gorge and creates some electricity before it joins up with the mighty Zambezi River.
Termite mounds or ant hills as they are called here are everywhere.
This family on the main road between Lusaka and Kafue are the only people I have seen that specialise in drum making.
I tried several out and they all have different and great sounds. The biggest sells for about $150 USD but I don't think I would play it much and the shipping costs would be quite a bit more than that.
Bananas and other fruit for sale.
I am a little nervous to return to Clayton. All of this just seems normal - sort of like going to the 4th of July parade in Clayton - but I keep reminding myself to get ready for some differences.
