Yangzanezie Waarkw – 15 years old, P5, Karbo Primary
15 year old Yangzanezie, whose name means ‘the place where you attain knowledge’, lives with his mother and father, 3 sisters and 2 brothers in Tuore, Lawra. His grandfather is the one who provides for the family, though he no longer works, so the family eke out survival on his savings from when he was earning a living as a watchman, and finances are clearly difficult for the family.
Yangzanezie is happy that there is a feeding programme at school as he says this is his source of energy. He explains that most people here don’t get food in the house. The lunch provided by the school is their main source of food meaning their school is the place where they are sure they will get to eat.
When asked what is his favourite school meal, Yangzanezie’s face opens into the widest smile. He lists almost every dish that is served through the week; jollof rice, gaari and beans, banku…he likes it all!
He quietly says that he is very grateful and that he cannot really express it. He is so happy about the support given by ATE and feels strongly that the organisation should continue to provide food, books and uniforms which he and his classmates really benefit from.
Yangzanezi was interviewed by Leela Shanti, ATE Volunteer