Sudan Update 3

Military training (trg) week is finally done! It consisted of a series of pre-deployment classes and refreshers of completed home country trg. We covered a myriad of subjects taught by instructors from around the world (Nigeria, Rwanda, Australia, Sudan, Germany, Canada, Croatia, Pakistan, India, Zambia, China, and Jordan).






There were six students in my class: three  Canadian Captains and three  Majors from Kenya, Pakistan, and India. 

My two favourite classroom quotes were: 'Landmines - it's not for spread on bread' (Croatian Capt) and 'I haven't had malaria in five years' (Rwandan Capt). 

At times, meanings are definitely lost in translation and cultural differences. The most striking cross cutting theme, however, is not the differences which we have with our colleagues but rather the similarities we share. The desire of many, regardless of background, to positively contribute toward the future of the Sudanese people is a powerful and lofty goal.

I believe that most would agree the UN, with its many flaws, has a formidable task. Its very design is wrought with daunting complexities and bureaucracy.

Yet, perhaps one of the most functional aspects of the system is that it brings together such a diversity of people working toward one common goal--emphasizing how small our world really is. That, in itself, is a promising result regardless of the mission outcome.

All must keep an open mind, relaxed attitude, and light spirit to navigate the delicate situations which arise and continually focus on achieving the maximum good, picking your battles, learning to compromise, developing relationships, understanding that your way is not the best/only way, and valuing the experiences and ideas of others.

It has been windy this week, which means slightly cooler temperatures which this Canadian girl appreciates! But it also means that sand is everywhere, and I mean everywhere! It is in your mouth, and eyes, in your clothes, on your books, all around you, leaving a thin red layer in its wake.  I cannot wait for my first haboob (an intense dust storm) - what a magnificent sight that must be! Sand creates a slightly unnerving and different scenario than the snow I left in Barrie! While both do present their own driving concerns ...



Note that most pictures taken in Khartoum were taken discretely through vehicle windows due to strict government regulations prohibiting photography.


On the topic of driving, this week I took my UN driving test along side two other Canadian military, one German military, and eight Bosnian Police Officers. I was the only girl. I was also the first one to attempt and successfully pass both aspects of the test - much to the chagrin of some of the less successful Bosnian males. Though on a plus side I did get a "you drive pretty well .... for a girl!" at the end of it - LOL!

The cultural intricacies that I have the opportunity to navigate on a daily basis are interesting and informative. I am learning a great deal about our world from my colleagues and concurrently sharing with them my Canadian ideals and norms. What strikes me most is the overarching theme of friendliness and openness to new people, cultures, and ideas, regardless of nationality, that we all share. It is truly a beautiful phenomenon to experience.

The weekend is here and I am off to relax! My next update will contain details on my integrated trg (military/civilian) next week as well as details on the team site where I am being sent!