April 3 - Goats for Hong Ha

 Khanh and I left Hue at 7 AM for the 2-hour gradual, steady ascent to the mountainous villages of Hong Ha and A Luoi. Before long we were way up in the clouds, winding our way along the constant twists and turns. En route was much evidence of pulpwood harvesting for the purpose of making paper. The areas harvested are replanted, ensuring a continuous supply.


 

Our destination area was a hotbed of activity during the war.  The Ho Chi Minh Trail, the main route for NVA forces and supplies moving into South Vietnam, penetrated this jungled region. Hamburger Hill, the site of a major battle in May 1969, is just a few miles from A Luoi. Now, though, one just sees beauty in this rugged, remote area.

In about 1.5 hours we arrived at the village of Hong Ha. 


About the same time a truck carrying 10 female goats rolled in. They're about to be moving to their new home.


 But, the doelings were restless tied up in the truck. So, the goat delivery fellow pulled nearby vegetation for feed, which settled them down.

Restless Doelings
 

Happy Doelings!  

Waiting Patiently To Go Home

Soon 10 villagers trickled in, after which each drew a numbered piece of paper to determine which goat would be received.

 

Drawing Numbers

Drawing Numbers
After each recipient had obtained a number, it was time to begin. Of course, each goat had a number attached to her neck. As each number was announced, the recipient would step forward and accept the goat. I was the official goat giver! They were ready & raring to go!

 

I Wanna Go Home  

 


 


 


 


Yes, I Kissed This Goat!

 


Yes, I Kissed Another Goat!


This Girl Was Stubborn!

But, She Quickly Settled Down   

Another Ornery One  

Goat Number 10!    

My goodness, this doeling is surely going to a caring home. A raincoat! And, I'm happy to say, I kissed this one!



 

Some were led home down the road while others were transported by motorbike. This was our first goat program and I'm very pleased. The first female kid from each goat will be given to another Hong Ha villager. That's the extent of their obligation. Village officials decide who gets the goats based on poverty level, need, and disability. The goats serve as an ongoing source of food and income. Offspring can be raised for food and/or sold. They're easy to care for and are life changers for impoverished families. Everyone was very happy and most appreciative. And I got to kiss a couple goats. For some reason, the villagers thought that to be strange. But, I was driven to do it.




Comments

  1. AnonymousApril 6, 2025 at 7:00 AM

    Your goat gifting project should go a long way to help recipient familys.

    ReplyDelete

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