Zambia

I spent my time in Zambia working with my auntie and uncle on their environmental projects. My auntie is a Moringa farmer, she has a plantation called Mother Earth which also has a lot of other plants such as neem trees. My uncle is a builder and is in the process of building my Auntie a Moringa factory that washes and dries the leaves, which is hopefully able to function completely without electricity. This way when the power cuts they can continue working. 

Moringa

Moringa oil comes from the seeds of Moringa Oleifera Tree. These are extremely rich in phytonutrients and can make a great impact on your overall health.

Neem 

Neem is an amazing gift from nature! It offers unbeaten and medically proven health and beauty benefits. The oil derived from neem seeds is ever more amazing! It is used as a main ingredient in many skin and hair care cosmetics. 

I helped plant seeds and learnt about making black soil to grow the miracle trees. Moringa oil is gaining popularity in cosmetics with the body shop and Estee lauder launchig products with the ingredient. Though organic and 100% pure is much more beneficial. 

During my first week in Mongu I did not have my suitcase as it was left in Dubai, I was incredibly distressed about it as I did not have my skincare products for my eczema, suncream or shampoo, let alone a hairbrush. But I soon realised none of it mattered, everything I needed was already there. Instead of moisturising with coconut oil I cut down pieces of Aloe Vera each morning to sooth my skin, I hand washed my clothes every morning, wearing the same top and trousers for an entire week is not something I would do at home but it really didn't matter to me out there.

One day I learnt how to make concrete water jars instead of using plastic ones, how to make renewable energy with hand made briquettes instead of charcoal and how to make a solar cooker with a cardboard box, sheet of tinfoil and plastic bag. 

It was really amazing to visit such an organic and environmental place, I have always questioned the UK and living here, as I grew up in Germany which was much more environmental than England, i was confused at why nobody washed their yogurt pots out and didn't recycle that much when I first got here. I expect I will return to Zambia after university to learn and experience much more.