One of the publications I subscribe to as a RPCV (Returned Peace Corps Volunteer) is called The Herald, and a massive issue just got delivered. No I haven't had time to digest it all. But one of the things I note is, for better or worse, the Ethiopians have contracted with the Chinese to build a giant dam, 600 feet high, 300 megawatts, on one of the Blue Nile tributaries that flows through the northeastern highlands. They are in the first year of a five year construction project.

Unfortunately, world coffee prices have taken a nose dive; they have declined 70% since 1998, a 30-year low. Sigh, I could now get a kilo of my favorite Harar coffee in Ethiopia for about $1.65 US; that same kilo costs me about $20 US at my local supermarket. You know, the international marketing systems just sucks up about 90% of the profit of producing and distributing coffee. My point? It's not just market reform in third world countries that's needed for improved economic development. But you all knew that, right?

Meanwhile, this dire drought has already killed nearly 180,000 cattle. On site inspections by international relief workers mirror observations during the 1984 drought. Emergency food shipments in the "pipeline" are on the way but probably will not meet the demand. I still would encourage thoughtful donations.

Charley Noble
RPCV (1965-68)