BABU Retires

Babu

This month, we said goodbye to BABU (“grandfather” in Swahili).

After 34 years of loyal service, our faithful tipper truck has left the parking lot… not without a little emotion (and a few sighs from the engine).

Always willing, sometimes a little grumpy, never really in a hurry, BABU travelled many unpaved roads. He carried red earth, sand, stones, and so much more.

He witnessed the birth of Partage’s buildings and took part in the beginning of so many projects. In many ways, he quite literally helped build the association — load after load.

Rest assured, we haven’t lost anyone — only a vehicle — but he had almost become part of the team.

A tribute to BABU, our “grandfather” — by Philippe Krynen

Farewell to Babu

Babu, the tipper truck purchased brand new in 1992, came straight from the ISUZU assembly plant in Dar es Salaam, which at the time supplied much of East Africa.

We were able to buy it tax-free (in those days NGOs had not yet acquired the “cash cow” status they sometimes carry today).

An indefatigable supplier for Partage’s construction sites, Babu oversaw the building of 22 health centres, 18 kindergartens, 4 vocational training centres, the rehabilitation of 89 water springs, and 911 home renovations… in all weather, across hills and valleys, without a single accident — never asking for anything more than a change of tyres, new brake pads, or a small touch of paint. He spoiled us, and we grew very attached to him.

It’s strange: things only have the life we give them or allow them to have — a life of objects, without feelings, memory, or words. And yet, when I look at these photos, I feel sure that Babu already misses us.

He has realised he won’t be coming back… and it brings tears to my eyes.