Africa: A Practical Guide for Global Health Workers

Acknowledgments

xiii acknowledgments The many students we have counseled before their travels to Africa, throughout their endeavors, and after their return provided the motivation for this book. They, above all, have inspired us with their curiosity , ability to translate ideas into action, and determination to make the world a better place. We have learned from their experiences, and hope that we have articulated their lessons into information others can readily use. We are grateful to the many authors who contributed their knowledge and experiences to so thoughtfully describe the countries profiled in this book. All unselfishly shared their enthusiasm, dedication, expertise , and love of the country they wrote about. In addition, several authors contributed tips and advice that are highly relevant for all travelers to Africa, and this information has been incorporated into the book’s second chapter. For their wisdom and forethought in this regard, we particularly thank Joyce A. Sackey, Nameeta M. Dookeran, Stella Safo, and Elizabeth Talbot. Stephanie Willman Bordat and Saida Kouzzi, the authors of the Maghreb chapter, provided critical and sensitive insights into working in a foreign culture. Their tips for helping readers understand cultural differences and develop positive relationships will help anyone working abroad to be more effective. Our fondest thanks go to Ambassador Kenneth S. Yalowitz, director of the Dickey Center for International Understanding at Dartmouth College, who brought us together as an editorial team, and provided the ongoing encouragement to ensure that we completed this project. Dr. Phyllis Deutsch, editor in chief of the University Press of New England, recognized at an early stage the potential usefulness of this book, and bolstered us with her enthusiasm for the project. She has provided wise advice throughout the process. We were fortunate to receive valuable input from several reviewers. Dana C. Grossman, Cynthia Haq, Heather Lukolyo, Stuart M. MacLeod, xiv acknowledgments and Peter Mogielnicki, provided critical and thoughtful insights that improved this book. Our spouses, Lars Blackmore and Stephen P. Spielberg, have been ever-present boosters and supporters of this project. Lars is the anchor of our family and household, artfully handling the practical details while providing stability to our otherwise hectic lives. His love and support help me feel grounded wherever my international work takes me and have allowed me to pursue my career with passion. lva Stephen Spielberg has made my life an adventure. I am inspired by his vision that allows him to move with ease between an individualized focus on each child and his efforts for children’s health globally. las africa Shading highlights countries or regions featured in this book ...