It ain't a party without a Goat!

Ever since I decided to come here in March, I have read every piece of published literature/research about Dadaab. I alsoy contacted nearly everyone who has done research at this camp, to learn what mistakes were made so I could better design my own research methodology. The primary expert is a Dutch woman named Cindy Horst, who published a book entitled Transnational Nomads: The lives of Refugees in the Dadaab Camps. I had only acquired her email address 3 days ago, when Surprise! she happened to show up here last night! She was hired by the Danish Refugee Council to do a study somewhat similar to my own, only it is more statistical and does not have any spatial analysis. The irony however is that we are using the exact same research methodolgy! She is training participants this week in data collection and then having them collect the information over the next three weeks, just as I am doing!!!!!!! It is quite exciting really. Sadly I don't have her book with me for an autograph, but I suspect over the next 5 weeks we will at least have some level of friendship. Very cool indeed.

Last night we had a big party as some of the staff from CARE are leaving this week. We roasted a goat, and danced all night until about 3:30 in the morning. It was really a blast. The act of dancing here is different than in the states. Tribalism permeates all body movements.

On another note, for the last year or so I have had a moderate interest in international soccer/football, but I could never choose a team with which to align my allegiances. I now believe that I am fated to take up the cause for Manchester United. Why? Well when I walk through the refugee camps, everyone looks at me and says "Smith!"
Apparently I look like Alan Smith, number 14, of the Manchester United. I hear this constantly, and when walking past a field of footballers, the game will often pause while everyone stares at me. I looked this guy up, do you think I look like him?