Peace Corps work in Botswana

Here’s how it started:
“Be forewarned that this is not a ‘typical’ Peace Corps assignment. It is more urban based and highly administrative. DAC volunteers work in offices that will feel very ‘Western’ on the surface, but that function in a wholly Botswana way.”

These words were the first that I read about my job upon receiving my invitation to the Peace Corps. I’ve read these words, and all of the other ones that accompanied them in my welcome packet multiple times, and have found that I am left with more questions every time I read through it. I wonder what it will be like, I wonder how I will get everything done before I leave, I wonder what my final goodbyes will be like.

Here are some things I know DAC’s are responsible for:
1. Facilitating the district plans for HIV/AIDS mainstreaming and the implementation of related programs.
2. Providing assistance to the District Multi-Sectoral AIDS Committees for the development of multi-sectoral, district-wide responses to HIV/AIDS.
3. Monitoring, evaluating and documenting district HIV/AIDS programming and its impacts.
4. Promoting strategic partnerships with traditional leaders, government and non-governmental organizations and the private sector.
5. Promoting the increased use of government sponsored HIV/AIDS programs and resources.

With this little bit of information...and rather ambiguous information I have found myself getting very excited about all of the possibilities, all of the unknowns, and all of the adventures that await me.