🌍 Hi, thanks for watching! 👉🏾 So how can you too move to an African country? Here my advice on 5 ways you can do it: bit.ly/2HCWqpF 👉🏾 Need help deciding which African country to visit first? Here's how to figure it out: bit.ly/2L3sIwp 👉🏾 Thinking about starting a business in Africa? Then read this! bit.ly/2N54Ysr 👉🏾 Looking for more reflections/tips from other African Americans living ALL around Africa PLUS advice on how to relocate to an African country, be sure to visit my website, "African American In Africa": www.aainafrica.com Thanks as always for following my journey :)
AfroAmericaninAfrica Would it be easier for you to soak your pots after you use them so foods don’t harden in the pots. You’re gonna have to be proactive. You’ll get it soon. Just do the best you can. Is there anyone around that could give you a hand? To thy self be true. This is my first time watching your video and I can understand why people think you’re miserable. Did you know what you were gettin into before you got married. Sweetheart you’re not happy. Can’t fool an older woman.
You were raised well. Your parents should be proud. Your husband is lucky to have you. Most African American girls would have been complaining about everything. You are just so pleasant.
Listen. You're American and you've managed to adapt to village life whenever you visit. I'm Tanzanian and if I were left in the middle of a village with nobody to help me, I would panic. I don't think you realize how many continental Africans you put to shame, myself included. Lol. Can't wait to see more of your vlog videos.
This is how African Americans grew up in the south. My grandmother parents were sharecroppers as a child she worked in the fields. When she was a teen she was a housekeeper. In NYC at our home, she still had a scrub board (for hand wash items) a bucket and clothesline to dry clothing. a sewing basket, a cast iron skillet .... I miss her.
I am Namibian, from Okahao and I absolutely love your vlogs, blog and experience of our culture. You may be amazed but it gets just as much with the cooking, heat and chores around the house with us as well. And Girl, nobody washes pots and dishes at night hahaha, exact same soaking and scrubbing struggles in the morning, especially if you have kids at home who always need to eat. And the Omahangu Pap, we have been learning our whole lives, it just gets better with experience. The time will just come when you know that you have put in enough flour when you stir. I temporarily live in Cape Town and I honestly screamed when that notification came in because I was getting to see home :-). I have shown your videos at home and my Oshiwambo parents were so happy to just see their culture being experienced by someone from a different culture. They could not get enough because it gave them an idea of what struggles their 'guests' may have in terms of adapting to their lifestyle and were so excited to identify familiar faces in the wedding videos. And my aunt saw you at church during holidays and she was like the lady with the cute son on your computer was at church today with her husband lol. Thank you and keep sharing.
Aww 😂 I love all of this! This comment really made my day! It took me 3 days of trying to upload this video, so your comment really makes me feel like all the uploading challenges were worth it! That's so awesome that you showed your parents and that your aunt saw me in church! LOL My son was really acting insane the last time I was there over the holidays, on the alter in front of everyone 🤦🏾♀ - I was embarassed LOL But thanks so much for sharing your perspective, its eye-opening for me as well and its wonderful to connect ❤
AfroAmericaninAfrica also give your son encouragement! Like good job Lance you pooped! You guys have to participate with him! Or let your husband engage in the process also. Your husband should say things like I need to use it Lance do you have to go to potty! Also, reward him with healthy snacks for going to the restroom. He’ll come around eventually.
I loved the energy of this video; it felt authentic. It may take alot of work & adjustment when you're there but I'm sure when you get back to the modern lifestyle you feel reinvigorated for being in a simple, natural environment. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man...no judgement here about tables; or what he has/hasn't provided for your comfort ...you're a young family you'll get there eventually . Thanks so much for sharing; it's such a privilege to share in your inspiring journey!
Wow, you’re a strong woman. As an African myself I know what it means to visit the village; the challenges and what not. I love that you appreciate your husband and his people, keep it up.
Hey gal!,I'm African American of kenyan descent living in boston and I just wanted to tell you that that's now your village and home too! ,as africans, even if you live in the city, your in laws home /village is your place too and when a dressing pple you should refer to it as my village.
Yes, refer to your In-laws as your family and the village your village too besides, you're going no where because you have planted a root in an African soil - a son. That's important to Africans, that means alot.
Thank you for sharing this video and for being so meticulous capturing various aspects of your life there. It is truly an humbling experience for you. It appears overwhelming at times when you are among your in-laws in the village. But I see that strength and resilience in you. You have a really good spirit and comes shining through as I watch this particular video. Your honesty is also refreshing. Please keep these videos going and sharing and I appreciate you tagging us along this tremendous experience!
You are amazing! How great it must be to live in nature and not be so spoiled by all the amenities of America. You get a well rounded world experience that we only imagine. Your son Lance is getting so big! He looks healthy and happy too. Thanks for your video.
Not eating as much meat or meat products in the summer is another way to keep cool, because meat will cause your body temperature to rise, which will in turn make you feel the heat more.
Interesting!! Namibia is a heavily meat-eating society, especially in the village lol So I'm not sure this is feasible, but this is definitely something I need to think about overall as I try to live healthier. Thanks so much for sharing!
An honest soul-filled video. To me it doesn't matter that you find some aspects of village life challenging, that's no surprise, as you are not accustomed to the lifestyle. But you are doing it and living it when you are there. I find your videos uplifting and encouraging. Keep em coming please!
wow you are adopted so fast and i like the fact that you don't sugar coat, u really show the people how us Namibian live in the village, very authentic. Proud to be Namibian, especially when we go to the village, away from the city lights, its calming and home is home. keep vloging
You guys dont understand what is going on. Poor unemploy African come to America to look for jobs. And build houses back Africa. Dont go to Africa if you dont have money and plan to build house.
Good Morning from Louisiana, First, You are a great mom!! My husband is from Cameroon, we are constantly sending camping supplies to the village to make life a little easier. My recommendation for teaching lil Lance to potty,is take him to the bathroom when you or your husband goes. He's also still young be patient he will get it(I have 4 kids) lol. Also if you save a gallon milk/water empty container you can poke holes around the lid or the neck of it, fill with hot/cold water and shower. Next time pack a hand saw, this makes life easier too. I am 37 and was taught if you give a dish you return the dish with something. This is a old practice but very important one. I love how somethings are so simular. Anyway, Love your videos.
Your ancestors Are very proud of you❤️❤️❤️✨✨✨✨You Are really really a blessing to yr hubby As a kenyan living in Europe i really admire You n the life you living Your village looks like our kenya village💃🏿😍 You Are blessed to have a mother in law that takes You Like Her dotta May your family keep blessed❤️❤️❤️❤️✌🏾
I love how most of these ppl that you are sharing your experiences with are so encouraging. It’s like they are being family to you and helping you go through the process with much love. These ppl you should embrace like family. It takes a village to nurture and help family from the US who feels overwhelmed, and your striving/surviving well. ❤️👊🏾✊🏾✌🏾👸🏾
His sis you are my biggest inspiration, I love your video, I am from Namibia grow up a village, and leave in England now but when I go back I always adapt to the village life. I am a herero women and I can relate to everything in your video.
Thank you for showing your pride in AfriKa to all the world. You are very true to the term "African American" because of your mental embrace of AfriKa. Success to you!
I'm so proud of you, seeing how much you have adopted to the life style in Namibia. I'm Namibian (owambo) living in Europe for over 20 years now. It's funny that I had trouble adopting to the European lifestyle the first time I got here. I was just 18 at the time and even though I was born and raised in whk, alot of things where similar but different ways of doing things,the language (UK English) for starters 😁. But I think it's not the same way as for you. You had to completely change your lifestyle, and much more. I Salut you sis. I love watching your video and somehow I feel close to home. I admire everything about you and the strength to stay in a country totally different from what u are used to. Thank you very much for your stories and your lovely smile.
i was a few years older than your son, when my father moved the family to the country in the US,, and we moved from a big city, living in the country was different.. we had a out house, we pumped our water, grew our own food.. more than half the time we had no elecrity so we used laterrns and candles.... no television most of the time...I can appreciate the fact that I learned great surivial skills. . so living in Ghana is home for me.... your will adjust better and better
I enjoy seeing that you keep your footage raw and uncut, it gives you a great feel of how it is in Africa. My wife, children, and I currently live in Ghana and have been here for more than 2 years, so when I seen the jerrycan, the washing basins, and the stove top I was like 'LOL the new African American's in Africa Frontier United.' Good job sis. I will check out the video you have of your son going to school, I'm not sure how long ago it was that you sent your son to school, but my wife and I just sent our children to school here in Ghana annndddd it's going really smooth. Talk to you soon my sis.
Thanks for sharing your morning routine. It looks like it takes some getting used to but you are doing a good job. It’s great that his mother has welcomed you and gently encourages you to learn the traditional practices as well. Good luck on the potty training! Maybe ask mom in law for some tips.
Sister I love the way you accepting our Continent situations, being born in a Big fancy City New York, wow 🤗🤗💖💖 much love for you baby, and you not complaining at all, down to earth , Jesus👐, God Bless you lovey.
A chicken, a pig...My cousin married a man raised in the desert Nomad tradition of Mauritania (I do not remember the tribe), but they live here in the States. She had to get used to arriving home after work, or waking up in the morning to people camped out on her living room floor. It was traditional hospitality extended to family and neighbors who had recently immigrated. She never visited his homeland because life on the desert walking behind a camel was just too much for her to deal with. I'm so glad that your mother in law is so welcoming to you, and it is wonderful that Lance is given the opportunity to learn the culture first hand. Put that table on your cell "to do" list!
That's super-duper. That's how we do things in villages; nothing really wrong. The good thing, you are coping despite working under hot temperature. Am amazed, you're taking Ontaku. Incredible!
Back in the day when I lived with my grandmother the sink wouldn’t drain, so we had to use basins to wash the dishes and throw the water out the door when we were done.
Your videos are really beautiful. I love them and enjoy watching each one of them. My home village is around the same region, in Uukwambi right before Okahao, but I'm based in the capital. I discovered your blogs a week ago, I wish I found them earlier 😍. It's amazing how the chores and routines especially the washing of dishes part are exactly the same in all households. Also, you could try washing some dishes at night, just before it gets completely dark, that way you'll just have a few to wash in the morning😅. And by the way, you are doing great, even better then many born into it😅😅. And you explain it soo explicitly and embrace the culture so beautifully . It gets even better and greater with time but you're already perfect. Thank you and blessings to your family
I think you are beautiful woman inside out. you are so real, I couldn't help but to fallow you life story. although I'm from Africa, I learned from you so much. I really thank you for the bottom of my heart for sharing your life story. What you and you husband doing is the nobility at it core. my God bless you and your family. much love and respect😍😍
So EXCITED about you sharing village life. It seems very hard and you are a strong woman. I recently visited Senegal and learn a lot about living simple and appreciate the small things and be more mindful of the food, and water. I received so much love from People, hopefully one day I can move to Africa, that Is my dream. Your litle boy is so big and handsome. Sending you much love and positive thoughts 😚💖
If your son doesn't have an allergy to it, dried nuts and berries, like raisins, cranberries and almonds or cashews are very great snacks with water that can hold his hunger while waiting for food. They don't need to be cooked or refrigerated so their shelf life lasts long. Fresh carrots or cucumbers make good snacks and last a little while unrefrigerated
Hello AA . I m TRUST from the NETHERLANDS . I saw one of your videos - titled : ´ My mourning routine ´ in a namibian village . I was genuinely impressed . You´ve coped very well . I know the challenges , i´m from there , similar , Nigeria . Now , i´m one of your subschribers . I will wacht your other videos . Should i say - you´re missing one ellement though , ´ the stream ´, it´s very important in the village . That´s how you combat heat during the day , you take a dip in the stream . Keep the videos coming . thanks .
Thank you for sharing such an honest and beautiful video of your home and village life in Namibia, Africa. You are a beautiful, smart and strong woman. God bless you and your family.
I love your videos have been following since day one you have a beautiful family as an african american im so proud of you retuning to the motherland an making a life for yourself you are an inspiration to me an my family god bless you n your family
A couple stacks of cinderblocks can hold up a makeshift countertop or sheet of plywood. One for the kitchen and one for the bath. Maybe another as a breakfast table too.
I really enjoy your videos, being a Namibian from the city i comment you for all the stuff you do out there. It's so much fun to watch you doing regular things with your unique perspective. BTw we own a farm so that's totally different. This makes me miss visiting my other family in the village.
This is so real maybe a bit to real for me and I was born and raised in SOWETO Sourh Africa but I love who you are. Very humbling given where you come from NYC. A really BEAUTIFUL, GREAT BLACK WOMAN❤
It seems like Namibian villages are much like Zimbabwean villages in my province, and I feel for you gurl. I was raised in the suburbs in my city back home (I'm in North America now). When your family is in the middle of talks for you to get married you have to meet and live with your husband's parents for a few days or more and be sure to impress them with your domestic skills so they know you were raised well, so I always had in the back of my mind that I'd have to do all this including farming and stuff on the regular for a while (not married so that's still a possibility). So I'm quite impressed that you're adapting well coz even though I've been to the rural areas a few times in my adulthood, I've still managed to evade most of it coz yo... its a lot! Lol. Kudos to you!
Thank you for sharing all your experiences.It is inspiring and full of great useful, practical information.Your experiences are not only valuable to the diaspora but also to Africans who live on the continent and are considering relocating elsewhere most specific to Namibia,since it is a great country.Please continue to share .Thank you.
Kaylan you are doing good! This is from a city girl- Nairobi Kenya. But i also got used to village life and slowly modernised my home. You will get there.... and Lance is soo cute!
Hello lady. My 13 y/o son and I moved to Nigeria for a year. For less than $1000 usd, we bought solar panels and had 24 hour refrigeration 2 ceiling lights 8 hrs of use per after Sun hours w/ an additional outlet for 8 hour tv or computer/printer use. Due to. visa issues, I had to come back to the U.S. Watching your video makes me long for the simple life again. Do you have toilets or have you cut a hole in a plastic chair and put a bucket under it for a makeshift toilet?
Nice, thanks for sharing your experience in Nigeria! Yes, they have solar but its not working for right now and needs to be repaired! But yes, there is a toilet there in the middle of their field in a brick structure they made... now there's an actual toilet but a few years back it was a plastered over toilet. You will see it one of the other village life videos I made: Part I ruclips.net/user/edit?o=U&video_id=AkIL1BmVWCg or Part II: ruclips.net/user/edit?o=U&video_id=4VALOJx6xLY
I must commend you because you understand the psychology of men and women who understand this win the heart of their with greater commitment. Kudos to you and somehow I have to watch your current videos and seen the tremendous progress you have made.
I can't stop watching your video I am so proud of you seeing you doing this things ♥️ it reminds living in the village with my grandmother and my wife in Nigeria
Hi there! Thank you for sharing such an intimate part of your family's life, but something I truly appreciate. Watching this gave me even more of a perspective of how I take many things for granted, like how much water I use to wash dishes. This is how our ancestors did things and how many people are clearly still doing it today. I think you handled your family's business with grace and I heard no complaining. I heard a woman expressing how real it is from going from a certain way of living to another way of living. Again, thank you and you have a new subscriber. I'm SO looking forward to binge-watching your videos from the beginning. You're doing an Awesome job and your little one is the absolute cutest! ☺
Thanks for watching and yes! It's the same effect on me, I gain an appreciation for how easy I have had it growing up and how easy life is when we leave the village (we live in another town a few hours away from the village in this video). Thanks so much for subbing! I'm working on putting out new videos, but in the meantime please feel free to follow my website www.aainafrica where I have shared more personal reflections and other experiences of African Americans living in Africa.
Can you please add a video of your journey learning Oshiwambo 😊... Great videos by the way, been following your channel since you first entered Namibia.
Thanks so much for saying this! It has been quite the journey... still feeling my way through it and have wanted to cut them off and start over many days lol... but that's why I started them - low maintenance!
You are so brave and strong living and experiencing life as a wambo ... its not what you're used to but you're a tough cookie. Being a namibian myself the room you're staying in is not the best but it's what life is like... just do whatever you can to make yourself comfortable. Adding a table and making it okay looking helps... but not judging it at all... its life and that's just how it is for most up north, especially because you and hubs don't have a permanent home yet... Hopefully once you guys build your house you can design the kitchen etc .
I have never been to the village in Namibia yet. At least when I visit there one day, I can have an idea of what to expect. It is somehow so similar to our province in the Philippines, where everything is so simplified, and really basic. Thanks for sharing your experience. It is somewhat an eye opener for most people who have never experienced the village/province life. One day when I go back to the Philippines for a visit, I think I will also vlog our similar experience there, so that people have an idea that it is not just Africa, but Asia as well.
In rural areas in the South, it was customary for decades (even as recent as the 2000s) for someone who received visitors to give them a gift to leave with. The gift was usually food from their garden or their fields, etc. It would have been insulting NOT to take the gift.
Suggestion: Fill the empty pot with water over the fire, let it boil and then clean it that night. Make a plan for the village routine asap. You got this. 😊
Great to see another video... Its funny because Ive been watching a lot of people living in their vans and cars....and their challenges are somewhat similar... but with tenacity, determination..their creativity always surfaces... when you're in the city do you plan out the things that would nake your visits to your village easier?? and make that a part of your prep? like containers to put your food away, things to scrub your pot-- garbage containers- just like recycling here in the US. a sturdy folding table to use as a counter for your dishwashing and cooking..think camping... each time you visit you make a list( simple)of things to make your stay less challenging.
wow i wanna go soooooo bad!!!!! I am the only one in my family who want to go to Africa ( so sad). So right now just looking for someone to go with hopefully i can meet you this summer!
In order to clean a used pot with porridge, add a little water to it on the stove ire. Bring it to a boil and use a cooking utensil to loosen the dried on food while the water boils. The food residue should come right off for you to easily wash it from there.
LanceI is BEAUTIFUL!! Girl I miss carrying water in Panama. Odd, I know. But it was my workout. Yes, i am in the US now and can go to the gym but I love the idea of getting exercise out of necessity. But yes, I understand the heat wears you out so you are the REAL MVP!! THank you for sharing.
A lamp with wax ( so like a hurricane lamp)} that is safe for lance too. Those wood can make an awesome table . slice in two, flat side up and cut four legs .There is a whole lot of sunlight.
Thank you for sharing this, you did very well. I'm sitting here turning into Macguyver, trying to figure out how I would engineer a sink with a drain and how to make a shower. When I visit I'm definitely taking some basic engineering diy. Blessings.
Do you have access to canned goods where you are? Keeping a few cans of chunky soups can substitute a meal quickly when you don't have time to prep and cook. Add dried veggies, and pasta to the soup while heating it to add more substance.
I LOVE this kind of life my mother, grandmother lived it. Its a much healthier life to live, compared to the cnveniences of america. If i can save enough i will come there to live forever.
If you can find a squirt bottle, that will help with rinsing soap off your body after washing hands or bathing. Use a clean damp rag to remove any remaining soap. Also there are water containers with nozzles on them that open and close to control water flow and can mimic running water.
Thanks for sharing! I have been eargerly waiting for a new video. I have one comment: 1. For your safety with the gas, strike the match, place next to the burner, then turn on the burner with your free hand. You don't ever want to turn on the gas then strike the match. As always, thanks again for sharing and allowing us in to personal life. Bajan
Oohh my kids were 5, 16 months and 7 weeks old....my 5 year old caught mumps(had all mmr in states) 2 months after we arrived, my younger ones had mysterious fevers as well as myself, twice, and the babies got really ill...but upon returning stateside they NEVER get sick!!
Sitting hear watching another one of your great videos with my coat, quilt and furnace at 70 degrees longing for just a tad bit of that heat you are telling us about 😊 we just made it through the fourth nor’easter in Pennsylvania.
🌍 Hi, thanks for watching!
👉🏾 So how can you too move to an African country? Here my advice on 5 ways you can do it: bit.ly/2HCWqpF
👉🏾 Need help deciding which African country to visit first? Here's how to figure it out: bit.ly/2L3sIwp
👉🏾 Thinking about starting a business in Africa? Then read this! bit.ly/2N54Ysr
👉🏾 Looking for more reflections/tips from other African Americans living ALL around Africa PLUS advice on how to relocate to an African country, be sure to visit my website, "African American In Africa": www.aainafrica.com
Thanks as always for following my journey :)
you are a good mom ,am in okahao when are you coming in I would like to meet you and your son
AfroAmericaninAfrica Would it be easier for you to soak your pots after you use them so foods don’t harden in the pots. You’re gonna have to be proactive. You’ll get it soon. Just do the best you can. Is there anyone around that could give you a hand? To thy self be true. This is my first time watching your video and I can understand why people think you’re miserable. Did you know what you were gettin into before you got married. Sweetheart you’re not happy. Can’t fool an older woman.
You were raised well. Your parents should be proud. Your husband is lucky to have you. Most African American girls would have been complaining about everything. You are just so pleasant.
This is a real woman. So much respect and admiration.
Listen. You're American and you've managed to adapt to village life whenever you visit. I'm Tanzanian and if I were left in the middle of a village with nobody to help me, I would panic. I don't think you realize how many continental Africans you put to shame, myself included. Lol.
Can't wait to see more of your vlog videos.
Lol, thank you Czar, I appreciate you saying that!
CzarJuliusIII Agreed
that's so true. lol
honestly I'm so proud of her
she is my inspiration angle.
I really fallow her like my own blood sister😍
so real so noble.
Speak for yourself bro, I would adapt to any African village
Jiongelelee brathe.kama uwezani na maisha ya ocha usidhani waafrika wengine hawawezani.
This is how African Americans grew up in the south. My grandmother parents were sharecroppers as a child she worked in the fields. When she was a teen she was a housekeeper. In NYC at our home, she still had a scrub board (for hand wash items) a bucket and clothesline to dry clothing. a sewing basket, a cast iron skillet .... I miss her.
These people help out each other no matter what. This is how we are suppose to be as True Black Children of the Sun.
So true!!
I am Namibian, from Okahao and I absolutely love your vlogs, blog and experience of our culture. You may be amazed but it gets just as much with the cooking, heat and chores around the house with us as well. And Girl, nobody washes pots and dishes at night hahaha, exact same soaking and scrubbing struggles in the morning, especially if you have kids at home who always need to eat. And the Omahangu Pap, we have been learning our whole lives, it just gets better with experience. The time will just come when you know that you have put in enough flour when you stir. I temporarily live in Cape Town and I honestly screamed when that notification came in because I was getting to see home :-). I have shown your videos at home and my Oshiwambo parents were so happy to just see their culture being experienced by someone from a different culture. They could not get enough because it gave them an idea of what struggles their 'guests' may have in terms of adapting to their lifestyle and were so excited to identify familiar faces in the wedding videos. And my aunt saw you at church during holidays and she was like the lady with the cute son on your computer was at church today with her husband lol. Thank you and keep sharing.
Aww 😂 I love all of this! This comment really made my day! It took me 3 days of trying to upload this video, so your comment really makes me feel like all the uploading challenges were worth it! That's so awesome that you showed your parents and that your aunt saw me in church! LOL My son was really acting insane the last time I was there over the holidays, on the alter in front of everyone 🤦🏾♀ - I was embarassed LOL But thanks so much for sharing your perspective, its eye-opening for me as well and its wonderful to connect ❤
Niipindi Batholmeus ❤❤❤
AfroAmericaninAfrica also give your son encouragement! Like good job Lance you pooped! You guys have to participate with him! Or let your husband engage in the process also. Your husband should say things like I need to use it Lance do you have to go to potty! Also, reward him with healthy snacks for going to the restroom. He’ll come around eventually.
Am humbled by your humility, well done and so inspiring
.I love the way u are coping. As a wambu person who grow up in the village I know how tough it can be . But u are doing just great.😍😍
I loved the energy of this video; it felt authentic. It may take alot of work & adjustment when you're there but I'm sure when you get back to the modern lifestyle you feel reinvigorated for being in a simple, natural environment. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man...no judgement here about tables; or what he has/hasn't provided for your comfort ...you're a young family you'll get there eventually . Thanks so much for sharing; it's such a privilege to share in your inspiring journey!
Thanks so much for saying all of this and for not judging! Appreciate this entire comment a lot!
Wow, you’re a strong woman. As an African myself I know what it means to visit the village; the challenges and what not. I love that you appreciate your husband and his people, keep it up.
Hey gal!,I'm African American of kenyan descent living in boston and I just wanted to tell you that that's now your village and home too! ,as africans, even if you live in the city, your in laws home /village is your place too and when a dressing pple you should refer to it as my village.
Yes, refer to your In-laws as your family and the village your village too besides, you're going no where because you have planted a root in an African soil - a son. That's important to Africans, that means alot.
Thank you for sharing this video and for being so meticulous capturing various aspects of your life there. It is truly an humbling experience for you. It appears overwhelming at times when you are among your in-laws in the village. But I see that strength and resilience in you. You have a really good spirit and comes shining through as I watch this particular video. Your honesty is also refreshing. Please keep these videos going and sharing and I appreciate you tagging us along this tremendous experience!
You are amazing! How great it must be to live in nature and not be so spoiled by all the amenities of America. You get a well rounded world experience that we only imagine. Your son Lance is getting so big! He looks healthy and happy too. Thanks for your video.
Not eating as much meat or meat products in the summer is another way to keep cool, because meat will cause your body temperature to rise, which will in turn make you feel the heat more.
Interesting!! Namibia is a heavily meat-eating society, especially in the village lol So I'm not sure this is feasible, but this is definitely something I need to think about overall as I try to live healthier. Thanks so much for sharing!
Baby Boy is Soooo Adorable...singing his little song ❤️😇👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
WOW. Wow. wow. In a way I'm a little envious ..it's like you're on this great adventure.
An honest soul-filled video. To me it doesn't matter that you find some aspects of village life challenging, that's no surprise, as you are not accustomed to the lifestyle. But you are doing it and living it when you are there. I find your videos uplifting and encouraging. Keep em coming please!
Thanks so much!
The "giving" and the "getting" of gifts is a form of reciprocity; a way of building ties to each other. Nice to see you again. Great video.
wow you are adopted so fast and i like the fact that you don't sugar coat, u really show the people how us Namibian live in the village, very authentic. Proud to be Namibian, especially when we go to the village, away from the city lights, its calming and home is home. keep vloging
watching this amazing because africans are moving to US and black Americans are moving to Africa
Daisy Jernigan the irony
You guys dont understand what is going on. Poor unemploy African come to America to look for jobs. And build houses back Africa. Dont go to Africa if you dont have money and plan to build house.
Good Morning from Louisiana,
First, You are a great mom!! My husband is from Cameroon, we are constantly sending camping supplies to the village to make life a little easier. My recommendation for teaching lil Lance to potty,is take him to the bathroom when you or your husband goes. He's also still young be patient he will get it(I have 4 kids) lol. Also if you save a gallon milk/water empty container you can poke holes around the lid or the neck of it, fill with hot/cold water and shower. Next time pack a hand saw, this makes life easier too.
I am 37 and was taught if you give a dish you return the dish with something. This is a old practice but very important one. I love how somethings are so simular. Anyway, Love your videos.
Thanks so much for all of this!!
Your ancestors Are very proud of you❤️❤️❤️✨✨✨✨You Are really really a blessing to yr hubby
As a kenyan living in Europe i really admire You n the life you living
Your village looks like our kenya village💃🏿😍
You Are blessed to have a mother in law that takes You Like Her dotta
May your family keep blessed❤️❤️❤️❤️✌🏾
I love how most of these ppl that you are sharing your experiences with are so encouraging. It’s like they are being family to you and helping you go through the process with much love. These ppl you should embrace like family. It takes a village to nurture and help family from the US who feels overwhelmed, and your striving/surviving well. ❤️👊🏾✊🏾✌🏾👸🏾
I love that too! I have some wonderful followers :)
As an Africa woman living in America, I really admire you. We grow up surviving the way you are living right now
It's so interesting how things are done there. Thanks for sharing your life.
Thanks so much for watching!
His sis you are my biggest inspiration, I love your video, I am from Namibia grow up a village, and leave in England now but when I go back I always adapt to the village life. I am a herero women and I can relate to everything in your video.
Welcome to Namibia, you are strong, not everyone can do all those things, thats why we came to towns...
Thank you for showing your pride in AfriKa to all the world. You are very true to the term "African American" because of your mental embrace of AfriKa. Success to you!
I'm so proud of you, seeing how much you have adopted to the life style in Namibia. I'm Namibian (owambo) living in Europe for over 20 years now. It's funny that I had trouble adopting to the European lifestyle the first time I got here. I was just 18 at the time and even though I was born and raised in whk, alot of things where similar but different ways of doing things,the language (UK English) for starters 😁. But I think it's not the same way as for you. You had to completely change your lifestyle, and much more. I Salut you sis. I love watching your video and somehow I feel close to home. I admire everything about you and the strength to stay in a country totally different from what u are used to. Thank you very much for your stories and your lovely smile.
i was a few years older than your son, when my father moved the family to the country in the US,, and we moved from a big city, living in the country was different.. we had a out house, we pumped our water, grew our own food.. more than half the time we had no elecrity so we used laterrns and candles.... no television most of the time...I can appreciate the fact that I learned great surivial skills. . so living in Ghana is home for me.... your will adjust better and better
we only a a pot belly stove we burn wood
Thanks so much for sharing this, and for continuing to watch my channel! Always notice your comments :)
You are just an amazing human being with a higher spirit.
I enjoy seeing that you keep your footage raw and uncut, it gives you a great feel of how it is in Africa. My wife, children, and I currently live in Ghana and have been here for more than 2 years, so when I seen the jerrycan, the washing basins, and the stove top I was like 'LOL the new African American's in Africa Frontier United.' Good job sis. I will check out the video you have of your son going to school, I'm not sure how long ago it was that you sent your son to school, but my wife and I just sent our children to school here in Ghana annndddd it's going really smooth. Talk to you soon my sis.
Thanks for sharing your morning routine. It looks like it takes some getting used to but you are doing a good job. It’s great that his mother has welcomed you and gently encourages you to learn the traditional practices as well. Good luck on the potty training! Maybe ask mom in law for some tips.
Thanks and yes! I asked her while we were there and she gave me some good advice!
Sister I love the way you accepting our Continent situations, being born in a Big fancy City New York, wow 🤗🤗💖💖 much love for you baby, and you not complaining at all, down to earth , Jesus👐, God Bless you lovey.
Village life is hard work, I'm not gonna lie I don't know if I'm about that life...
A chicken, a pig...My cousin married a man raised in the desert Nomad tradition of Mauritania (I do not remember the tribe), but they live here in the States. She had to get used to arriving home after work, or waking up in the morning to people camped out on her living room floor. It was traditional hospitality extended to family and neighbors who had recently immigrated. She never visited his homeland because life on the desert walking behind a camel was just too much for her to deal with. I'm so glad that your mother in law is so welcoming to you, and it is wonderful that Lance is given the opportunity to learn the culture first hand. Put that table on your cell "to do" list!
Thanks so much for sharing the Mauritanian experience! Fascinating to hear about!!
I'm so so so so proud of you keep it up. I know it might be difficult but you are doing a great job. I will be there soon.
That's super-duper. That's how we do things in villages; nothing really wrong. The good thing, you are coping despite working under hot temperature. Am amazed, you're taking Ontaku. Incredible!
Yes, I love Ontaku :) Thank you for watching!
Back in the day when I lived with my grandmother the sink wouldn’t drain, so we had to use basins to wash the dishes and throw the water out the door when we were done.
Yep! That's what I do!
Your videos are really beautiful. I love them and enjoy watching each one of them. My home village is around the same region, in Uukwambi right before Okahao, but I'm based in the capital. I discovered your blogs a week ago, I wish I found them earlier
😍. It's amazing how the chores and routines especially the washing of dishes part are exactly the same in all households. Also, you could try washing some dishes at night, just before it gets completely dark, that way you'll just have a few to wash in the morning😅. And by the way, you are doing great, even better then many born into it😅😅. And you explain it soo explicitly and embrace the culture so beautifully . It gets even better and greater with time but you're already perfect. Thank you and blessings to your family
I think you are beautiful woman inside out. you are so real, I couldn't help but to fallow you life story. although I'm from Africa, I learned from you so much. I really thank you for the bottom of my heart for sharing your life story.
What you and you husband doing is the nobility at it core.
my God bless you and your family. much love and respect😍😍
So EXCITED about you sharing village life. It seems very hard and you are a strong woman. I recently visited Senegal and learn a lot about living simple and appreciate the small things and be more mindful of the food, and water.
I received so much love from People, hopefully one day I can move to Africa, that Is my dream.
Your litle boy is so big and handsome.
Sending you much love and positive thoughts 😚💖
You're one well disciplined woman, l really admire your tenacity.
Your son looks just like you! I’m happy with your adjustments to African village life
If your son doesn't have an allergy to it, dried nuts and berries, like raisins, cranberries and almonds or cashews are very great snacks with water that can hold his hunger while waiting for food. They don't need to be cooked or refrigerated so their shelf life lasts long. Fresh carrots or cucumbers make good snacks and last a little while unrefrigerated
Hello AA . I m TRUST from the NETHERLANDS . I saw one of your videos - titled : ´ My mourning routine ´ in a namibian village . I was genuinely impressed . You´ve coped very well . I know the challenges , i´m from there , similar , Nigeria .
Now , i´m one of your subschribers . I will wacht your other videos .
Should i say - you´re missing one ellement though , ´ the stream ´, it´s very important in the village . That´s how you combat heat during the day , you take a dip in the stream .
Keep the videos coming . thanks .
Girrrl, you are tough. I am omuwambo but I still find it hard to adapt at my village. Proud of you. ...
Thank you for sharing such an honest and beautiful video of your home and village life in Namibia, Africa. You are a beautiful, smart and strong woman. God bless you and your family.
You're gonna make me tear up, this is such a sweet comment. THANK YOU ❤
You are an amazing woman.
Thank for sharing this
Just getting around to watching this old video. I LOVE that you've repurposed an old bed frame into the "stove top." So clever.
Haha, yes, we sure did do that! It worked relatively well! 😄
The only channel I'll turn post notifications on for! Thanks for sharing 😊
Thanks so much girl!!! ❤❤❤
I love your videos have been following since day one you have a beautiful family as an african american im so proud of you retuning to the motherland an making a life for yourself you are an inspiration to me an my family god bless you n your family
wow I love this lady so humble. amazing
Very raw and real video, I enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing.
you are now a true african makoti "wife"....you are adapting pretty well to the culture
A couple stacks of cinderblocks can hold up a makeshift countertop or sheet of plywood. One for the kitchen and one for the bath. Maybe another as a breakfast table too.
Good ideas!!
I really enjoy your videos, being a Namibian from the city i comment you for all the stuff you do out there. It's so much fun to watch you doing regular things with your unique perspective. BTw we own a farm so that's totally different. This makes me miss visiting my other family in the village.
This is so real maybe a bit to real for me and I was born and raised in SOWETO Sourh Africa but I love who you are. Very humbling given where you come from NYC. A really BEAUTIFUL, GREAT BLACK WOMAN❤
It seems like Namibian villages are much like Zimbabwean villages in my province, and I feel for you gurl. I was raised in the suburbs in my city back home (I'm in North America now).
When your family is in the middle of talks for you to get married you have to meet and live with your husband's parents for a few days or more and be sure to impress them with your domestic skills so they know you were raised well, so I always had in the back of my mind that I'd have to do all this including farming and stuff on the regular for a while (not married so that's still a possibility).
So I'm quite impressed that you're adapting well coz even though I've been to the rural areas a few times in my adulthood, I've still managed to evade most of it coz yo... its a lot! Lol.
Kudos to you!
Thank you for sharing all your experiences.It is inspiring and full of great useful, practical information.Your experiences are not only valuable to the diaspora but also to Africans who live on the continent and are considering relocating elsewhere most specific to Namibia,since it is a great country.Please continue to share .Thank you.
Kaylan you are doing good! This is from a city girl- Nairobi Kenya. But i also got used to village life and slowly modernised my home. You will get there.... and Lance is soo cute!
Thanks so much for saying this! Appreciate it
Hello lady. My 13 y/o son and I moved to Nigeria for a year. For less than $1000 usd, we bought solar panels and had 24 hour refrigeration 2 ceiling lights 8 hrs of use per after Sun hours w/ an additional outlet for 8 hour tv or computer/printer use. Due to. visa issues, I had to come back to the U.S. Watching your video makes me long for the simple life again. Do you have toilets or have you cut a hole in a plastic chair and put a bucket under it for a makeshift toilet?
Nice, thanks for sharing your experience in Nigeria! Yes, they have solar but its not working for right now and needs to be repaired!
But yes, there is a toilet there in the middle of their field in a brick structure they made... now there's an actual toilet but a few years back it was a plastered over toilet. You will see it one of the other village life videos I made: Part I ruclips.net/user/edit?o=U&video_id=AkIL1BmVWCg or Part II: ruclips.net/user/edit?o=U&video_id=4VALOJx6xLY
Ginger Mack i hope your visa issues gets sorted out and you go back... if u wish to. 👍
I must commend you because you understand the psychology of men and women who understand this win the heart of their with greater commitment. Kudos to you and somehow I have to watch your current videos and seen the tremendous progress you have made.
I think you can try soaking the pot at night after you finish cooking poridge! it will be easy to use in the morning
You're right, I definitely should LOL
stay strong sis. I know its not easy but overall worth it.
Thanks for saying this!!
you're welcome sis, God bless you and your family.
I can't stop watching your video I am so proud of you seeing you doing this things ♥️ it reminds living in the village with my grandmother and my wife in Nigeria
Hi there! Thank you for sharing such an intimate part of your family's life, but something I truly appreciate. Watching this gave me even more of a perspective of how I take many things for granted, like how much water I use to wash dishes. This is how our ancestors did things and how many people are clearly still doing it today. I think you handled your family's business with grace and I heard no complaining. I heard a woman expressing how real it is from going from a certain way of living to another way of living. Again, thank you and you have a new subscriber. I'm SO looking forward to binge-watching your videos from the beginning. You're doing an Awesome job and your little one is the absolute cutest! ☺
Thanks for watching and yes! It's the same effect on me, I gain an appreciation for how easy I have had it growing up and how easy life is when we leave the village (we live in another town a few hours away from the village in this video). Thanks so much for subbing! I'm working on putting out new videos, but in the meantime please feel free to follow my website www.aainafrica where I have shared more personal reflections and other experiences of African Americans living in Africa.
Sing baby!!! He's so big now. Time is flying. Thanks for the video.
LOL he was really singing tho! Thanks for watching :)
Can you please add a video of your journey learning Oshiwambo 😊... Great videos by the way, been following your channel since you first entered Namibia.
Great to see another video! Your locs are growing beautifully. I cut mine after 5 years and I quickly grew th em again. Low maintenance.
Nikkie I agree! I cut mine about 3 or 4 years ago and I greatly regret it I am now in the process of relocking mine!
Thanks so much for saying this! It has been quite the journey... still feeling my way through it and have wanted to cut them off and start over many days lol... but that's why I started them - low maintenance!
You are so brave and strong living and experiencing life as a wambo ... its not what you're used to but you're a tough cookie. Being a namibian myself the room you're staying in is not the best but it's what life is like... just do whatever you can to make yourself comfortable. Adding a table and making it okay looking helps... but not judging it at all... its life and that's just how it is for most up north, especially because you and hubs don't have a permanent home yet...
Hopefully once you guys build your house you can design the kitchen etc .
I’m proud of you and you are doing a great job. You will figure it out one step at a time, transitioning ain’t easy but you got this 💪🏾
Thank you for sharing this video with us. Nice to see you again.
I really appreciate your channel sissy, thawadah (thank you)! Your prince is so handsome, bless is heart!
I have never been to the village in Namibia yet. At least when I visit there one day, I can have an idea of what to expect. It is somehow so similar to our province in the Philippines, where everything is so simplified, and really basic. Thanks for sharing your experience. It is somewhat an eye opener for most people who have never experienced the village/province life. One day when I go back to the Philippines for a visit, I think I will also vlog our similar experience there, so that people have an idea that it is not just Africa, but Asia as well.
Good stuff! Love it! All the best! Kind regards from Angola!
Im just happy I found this video. Eye opening life changer !!.
Thank you for being back. Following from Botswana 🇧🇼
In rural areas in the South, it was customary for decades (even as recent as the 2000s) for someone who received visitors to give them a gift to leave with. The gift was usually food from their garden or their fields, etc. It would have been insulting NOT to take the gift.
That means he’s ready when he goes away to relieve himself! All it takes is repetition, motivation, and patience!😊
Suggestion:
Fill the empty pot with water over the fire, let it boil and then clean it that night. Make a plan for the village routine asap. You got this. 😊
Great to see another video... Its funny because Ive been watching a lot of people living in their vans and cars....and their challenges are somewhat similar... but with tenacity, determination..their creativity always surfaces... when you're in the city do you plan out the things that would nake your visits to your village easier?? and make that a part of your prep? like containers to put your food away, things to scrub your pot-- garbage containers- just like recycling here in the US. a sturdy folding table to use as a counter for your dishwashing and cooking..think camping... each time you visit you make a list( simple)of things to make your stay less challenging.
wow i wanna go soooooo bad!!!!! I am the only one in my family who want to go to Africa ( so sad). So right now just looking for someone to go with hopefully i can meet you this summer!
I really enjoyed your video. Girl, you are brave
You certainly have adjusted! More power to you. I could not do it. Best wishes.
You are a good woman and I thank God your husband is a sensible man and dont worry he will get those things for you.
In order to clean a used pot with porridge, add a little water to it on the stove ire. Bring it to a boil and use a cooking utensil to loosen the dried on food while the water boils. The food residue should come right off for you to easily wash it from there.
LanceI is BEAUTIFUL!! Girl I miss carrying water in Panama. Odd, I know. But it was my workout. Yes, i am in the US now and can go to the gym but I love the idea of getting exercise out of necessity. But yes, I understand the heat wears you out so you are the REAL MVP!! THank you for sharing.
Thanks so much
I always love your videos and posts!!!! Keep up the good work!!!
A lamp with wax ( so like a hurricane lamp)} that is safe for lance too. Those wood can make an awesome table . slice in two, flat side up and cut four legs .There is a whole lot of sunlight.
Thank you for sharing this, you did very well. I'm sitting here turning into Macguyver, trying to figure out how I would engineer a sink with a drain and how to make a shower. When I visit I'm definitely taking some basic engineering diy. Blessings.
Do you have access to canned goods where you are? Keeping a few cans of chunky soups can substitute a meal quickly when you don't have time to prep and cook. Add dried veggies, and pasta to the soup while heating it to add more substance.
I LOVE this kind of life my mother, grandmother lived it. Its a much healthier life to live, compared to the cnveniences of america. If i can save enough i will come there to live forever.
LOL... What is the little guy chatting about? Adorable
LOL, right he had something to say! LOL
If you can find a squirt bottle, that will help with rinsing soap off your body after washing hands or bathing. Use a clean damp rag to remove any remaining soap. Also there are water containers with nozzles on them that open and close to control water flow and can mimic running water.
Yes, such a good idea because I struggle with feeling soapy after my bath when we visit which is not good at all. I'm not doing something right lol
Thanks for sharing! I have been eargerly waiting for a new video.
I have one comment:
1. For your safety with the gas, strike the match, place next to the burner, then turn on the burner with your free hand. You don't ever want to turn on the gas then strike the match.
As always, thanks again for sharing and allowing us in to personal life.
Bajan
This is good advice! Thanks so much for sharing it, lord knows I needed it LOL Also, #bajansrepresent 🇧🇧🇧🇧🇧🇧
Oohh my kids were 5, 16 months and 7 weeks old....my 5 year old caught mumps(had all mmr in states) 2 months after we arrived, my younger ones had mysterious fevers as well as myself, twice, and the babies got really ill...but upon returning stateside they NEVER get sick!!
Sitting hear watching another one of your great videos with my coat, quilt and furnace at 70 degrees longing for just a tad bit of that heat you are telling us about 😊 we just made it through the fourth nor’easter in Pennsylvania.
I'm totally a spoiled American and I love AC.