The 4-1-1: On-Field Orientation

On-Field Orientation

A portion of your first day will be spent in orientation. We will build on what you have already learned before coming. The program will require you to participate fully in the activities and discussions. We hope that before you leave that you make the time to completely read through the informative booklet given to you during your orientation time. Topics that will be covered are:

• an introduction to the Songhai people (customs, beliefs, daily life...)
• how-to appropriately interact with the Songhai people
• how Christian witness interfaces with Songhai culture
• personal health and hygiene issues
• how to work with a translator
• safety precautions
• details of your specific job

The 4-1-1: Fun & Adventure

Fun and Adventure

Niger

In Niger there is a game park near the Burkina Faso border, which would be a full day's trip or require an overnight stay; the park is not open during rainy season. Other day trips would include seeing the traditional gold mines near Tera or hunting for hippos in the river near the Malian border. Closer in to Niamey, you can observe a herd of endangered species of giraffe in their natural habitat and climb sand dunes. There is also a scenic place on the plateau overlooking the Niger River to picnic, ride camels, or just take a walk. Canoes can be rented for a trip up river to a visit to a local market and to see traditional pottery making. A golf course, of sorts, is available for those who are interested. A trip to the Niamey Museum / Zoo and Friday mosque might be arranged.

Timbuktu

A walking / driving tour of the city includes historical sites and important places, such as mosques that are hundreds of years old, explorers' homes, library housing century old Korans and manuscripts, etc. Pastor Nouh is good to explain the implications of historical and current events to local Christians. Those sleeping on the roof tops will waken early to enjoy delightful smells of "takoula" coming out of traditional ovens as the sun rises. The Tourist Office will gladly sell you an official Timbuktu stamp in your passport and a "been there, done that" T-shirt. A camel ride at sunset to the dunes just at the outskirts of town and an overnight stay in a Tuareg encampment can be arranged.

Ouagadougou

Several nice restaurants and small hotels are available, including tourist-oriented craft / gift shops. There is an annual film festival and craft show in the fall.

Bamako

There's a natural bridge about an hour's drive out of Bamako on the Guinea road, in the village of Siby. It takes about 15 - 30 minutes to climb to the bottom of the natural bridge. Adventurous people can climb to the top; it's a great spot for a picnic. You must hire a guide. Some of the following cuisine can be found in restaurants in Bamako: American diner-type food, Vietnamese, Thai, Lebanese, French, Italian, and African. There is a tourist artist market where you can find nice drums, great wood carvings, pieces of "bogolan" material and gold and silver jewelry, among other things.

The 4-1-1: Medical Teams

Medical Teams

Doctors, nurses, or other licensed professionals must bring with them:

• a notarized copy of your license(s) and diploma(s)
• antiviral therapy in cases of needle sticks
• doses of Epinephrine, if doing a vaccination clinic
• white lab coat(s)

Generic medications are usually available for purchase here at good prices; if you are considering a medical-oriented ministry with us, we should begin to plan and purchase needed items as soon as possible to obtain what your team requires before you come. This will cut down on your purchase expense and the amount of supplies you need to transport and clear through customs. Any medications or supplies you bring in must NOT be out of date.

Hepititis B vaccine is highly recommended.

The 4-1-1: Using the Squatty Potty

Latrine Etiquette

Welcome to West Africa's bush reality. Actually a bush might be more preferable than most neglected latrines. The "how-to" is to secure your sunglasses, breath through your mouth, aim well, hit the hole, and exit fast. If you miss the hole, it is your responsibility to clean up after yourself.

The 4-1-1: Ladies Only

Ladies Only

Feminine products can be purchased in country, although they may not be the same quality you are used to using. None of them can be flushed or dropped down the latrines or left behind a tree in the bush. Used items must be tied up in a plastic trash bag and disposed of in the garbage can at your host's home or at the guesthouse to be burnt

The 4-1-1: Prayer Walkers

Prayer Walkers

The IMB has wonderful resources available especially for volunteer prayer walkers.

The 4-1-1: Getting Sick on the Field

Traveler's Diarrhea

Other than the over-the-counter medications and first-aid-type stuff we have previously mentioned, we suggest that you come with an antibiotic prescription for traveler's diarrhea. Even with all the care we take in preparing your food, it is a very common occurrence for volunteers to come down with an intestinal infection, diarrhea and fever while they are here. In the past, seasoned volunteers have visited their family physician before coming out to obtain medication to treat this eventuality. This has proven to be a good thing, so we are asking you to do the same, as long as you come with instructions on how to properly take this medication.

Do not share your medication with others.