KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON
Camp Nles Mamse is approaching its tenth Birthday. Built in 2015, this nine-year-old facility has seen countless stories unfold and occupies a space in the heart of anyone who has ever called it home.
Many team members have come and gone over time, but the camp still stands strong. However, the impacts of age are felt faster in the humid and hot climate of the Kehje Sewen Forest. Therefore, maintenance is a never-ending task at the camp, which can include repairing the camp’s roof, cleaning the water tanks, patching the boats’ hulls, repairing the kitchen walls, tidying up the camp, and servicing the equipment.
One of the longest-standing “residents” of Camp Nles Mamse is the generator (genset). This equipment is nearly as old as the camp where our team works. It also serves as the primary source of electricity for the team in the middle of the forest, facilitating the team’s activities, especially at night. Nevertheless, no matter how sophisticated and good a tool is, it can only last long with proper maintenance.
Maintenance is key
Just like humans go to the doctor, regular maintenance is a prerequisite for ensuring a tool has a long “life” and functions optimally. But only some people can repair this sometimes-fickle genset. Fortunately, one of our technicians, affectionately known as Bang Ali, is highly experienced in maintaining equipment such as gensets, water pumps, and other essential pieces of technology.
Even with experience, it takes a lot of work. At times, Bang Ali is puzzled when the genset suddenly stops working without an apparent cause. On the other hand, when the genset can be repaired, the team feels relieved to have Bang Ali’s skills in the team.
Happy Birthday, and to the next ten years, Camp Nles Mamse!