Roamba, Lea

Lea was about 10 years old at the time of our visit in January 2012.  Her father died in 2007, leaving his wife and 4 children.  The oldest of the children is married and living elsewhere.  Lea has 2 older brothers, Jean Luke who is about 18 and Lese about 13.  They are living in the capital city with relatives trying to find work.   Lese was in school but his mother was not able to pay fees for all of her children, so when Lese turned 12, he left school.  Jean Luke also had to leave because fees are too expensive in high school.  Fortunately, Lea is in her 2nd year of school and with sponsorship will be able to continue. 

Lea and her mother live in a village called Songnaba.  They are in their uncle’s courtyard, but he is mentally ill and often disappears for months at a time.  There is one other woman in the courtyard.  Their home is a mud brick hut but it is in decent condition.  They have no electricity.  They do have a donkey which helps with the work in the fields.  Their water comes from a nearby well. 

Lea's mom farms with alone to provide a crop for her and Lea.There is no other work.  All are in good health.