This Too is Liberia…

Heading for the waves

In Liberia, after one hear the statement “this too is Liberia….” normally it is follow by negativity. This negativity takes place in all forms and relates to numerous situations. On the contrary this post is not a subject of negativity. “This too is Liberia”….……when young men and women can hold on to a sport that allows them to preserver in all aspects of the lives.  Surfing in Liberia????

Yes, and it is taking over the coast of Cape Mount and spreading to other coastal cities in Liberia. I longed to see the surfing at Nanas’ lodge, since I heard about it. Unfortunately, for me I always visited when the team was not performing. When, I arrived in the country tired, overworked, and was told there was surfing competition the next day, I knew I had to be there!

Surfing it up!

A competitor hitting the waves

With all the joggling it took to get there, we made it and it was great!! It was great to see young Liberians, girls and boys, stimulated by a sport so different from what they are not culturally accustom to, but yet so naturally part of who they are.  The competition consisted of three categories: senior, junior and women.

Regrettable, I did not see the entire competition as I had to drive back to Monrovia for work. However, the conversation I had with one of the 1^st self taught surfers led me to believe this was not just a sport for these surfers. It was a social and psychological escape from years of devastation they had endured. 

The confidence he exuded, from the manner in which he spoke, his leadership amongst his peers, were evidence that surfing has created a positive dimension in his life.

All in the days work 

These young surfers are utilizing surfing to create a sense of belonging and security. More should be done to support the surfers in RobertSport, but like most things in Liberia people shy away from the unknown, instead of exploring the unknown. Wake up LIBERIA and support your future leaders!!!!

Chimpanzee Island



Chimpanzees coming out to shore

Maybe I expected too much from the Chimpanzee Island. I had envisioned…...................An island off the coast of Marshalls on which upon arrival , a guy in a Crocodile Dundee outfit  with Australian accent comes sprouting towards the boat welcoming us to the island. Introduces himself and lead us towards the chimpanzees, on the way telling us how to behave and what to expect. Once we are close enough we can feed them, play catch ball with them, and have them eat bananas from our palms!! After a long day of playing and exploring the Island to show how grateful they are, the chimps will walk with us back to the boat, and sadly wave us away. 

In reality, we left Monrovia around 9am after we picked up several colleagues on the way. Cramped up in my Nissan, literally as we had tree in the front and four in the back.

3 in the front



4 in the back, one invisible:)



Thank God we are in Liberia, because we would have been pulled over in a second. After about 45mins of driving we arrived at Marshals Island, our guide DMAX arranged for a boat to take us to the main Island. We were charged 65 USD and they did not provide anything. We had to bring our life jackets, food, etc.  The town is quite lively with few places to get snacks, but make sure you eat before going, and take snacks. We parked the car by the loading dock, and had someone watched the car as we sailed out. 

  

Who can do the best Chimp impression?

We sailed for about 20mins before arriving at Chimpanzee Island. The ride over was beautiful in terms of scenery, and conversations. Once we got there, I was so shock! The chimpanzees were as big as me, I wish I had the chance to get closer.



Pay attention to this sign

For all those scary cats out there, there is a warning that prohibits boats from crossing a specific point, it is a way to protect the animals and humans.  Once you follow the rules, you will get close enough to have fun with them, without leaving your bones behindJ

Unfortunately, we made a mistake, and did not buy enough bananas, after 10 mins all our bananas were gone, and we had to scrap for snacks to maintain their attention.  Take as much as you can, as it is a way to keep them active.

 

I was wondering the same thing. why do we have Japanese flags on local boats? long story..



On the way back we stopped to get taste of palm wine (Liberian brew alcohol brevage), and we definitely won a dance off with a self proclaim dancer.

Mr.Gbowee with his Palm Wine



We made it back safely!! Our sailor on far left.

As great as this trip was I could not help readjusting my thoughts to the previous days when I read an article pertaining to the Island, and how it manifested in Liberia. I was appalled and disturbed that our government will approve something so dangerous (click here to read). When does idiocracy ends?

To view more pictures click here