Chapter Eight
The harmattan season brought scorching afternoons and chilly nights. It was understandable for anyone in Igbo land to resent this season due to its harsh weather, abundant dust, and the affliction of chapped lips. However, paradoxically, it seemed to be our favourite weather because it signalled the arrival of Christmas. The dusty streets were teeming with lively children, and newly opened stalls catered to the festive season, aiming to make extra profits. Many customers occupied most of the food stalls, relishing palm wine, suya, nkwobi, and pepper soup.
Those returning home for Christmas balanced their luggage on their heads or in their hands, while others travelled in fully-packed cars. Some happily led the goats they had purchased, while others carried yams, chickens, and other Christmas supplies. Children clutched small bags or held their little ones' hands. Truly, people were flocking home to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones. The scent in the air was unmistakably that of Christmas!
As we rode towards our local market, I exchanged smiles with the hawkers who engagingly beckoned passersby to buy their wares. The motorcyclists or rather okada riders called out to attract customers, and the marketplace resonated with shouts and sounds from loudspeakers, creating an incredibly lively atmosphere. It was a delightful spectacle to observe our bustling local market. The okada man carrying me slowed down near potholes scattered along the road, skillfully navigating around them. As we passed the market, we continued along the narrow road, which showed signs of erosion on its edges.
As I glanced back at the erosion and motioned to my parents' and sister's okada riders to slow down, the thought crossed my mind that Climate Change may have played a role in its formation. These days, conversations about Climate Change and the urgent need for climate action to preserve our planet are everywhere. Observing the erosion, I felt a strong desire to be part of the solution. I hoped to initiate change by reducing my carbon footprint, planting trees, and eliminating plastic litter.
While taking out the trash and being a good neighbour were important, I believed there was more I could do to improve my community. We needed more trees and vibrant green spaces. In this moment, I recalled the words of my Agriculture teacher, who had emphasised the importance of collective action in creating a green and clean environment. He encouraged us to come together and plant trees, flowers, and colourful perennial borders along our sidewalks and streets, as well as establish a community garden. To achieve such a significant transformation, we needed to collaborate. Although our monthly clean-up initiative, held on the last Saturday of each month, was a good starting point for a cleaner environment, I felt it was insufficient.