Moving from Markala to Bamako
	I have moved from Markala, a village of about 17,000 people, to the Capital City of Mali, Bamako. Bamako has over 1,000,000 million residents. My experience will be very different. My new address is: Stephen Andersen, PCV c/o le Corps de la Paix BP 85 Bamako, Mali Afrique The intention of the move is to enable me to work more closely with government ministries in the field of 'microfinance'. Microfinance is a form of banking where micro loans are granted to poor people in order to allow them to achieve a higher standard of living. About 17 friends and colleagues of mine in Markala organized a farwell gathering at my house. They rented chairs, brought Cokes, and played music. I expressed my true appreication for working with them all: - NYESIGISO (the microfinance bank) - the lycee (local high school) - NGO CADIBA - Sosumar sugar plantation project - sister church program - Jigiya and sister handicapped group program - Radio Jamakan/ Internet cafe They in turn offered their thanks to me, sang songs, and gave me gifts (balaphone, bible in Bambara). I will miss my friends in Markala.