NDUTU'S DUST....FRIEND OR FOE?
February 2011 and Tanzania is in the throes of a mini drought. Evidence that the seasonal rains are late can be seen everywhere. Anything that moves over the surface of the earth kicks up a fine dust cloud that penetrates into your very soul. The relentless sun burns the air and makes breathing a laboured task. The air is heavy with dust particles and sparse shade lures the senses as the sirens lured the sailors. Ice, shade and cold water take on new meaning. A short geography lesson on North-eastern Tanzania reveals the presence of volcanoes, both active and inactive. A short walk however reveals so much more. The fine dust layering the surface of the earth appears devoid of nutrients. Vegetation is sparse and day and night temperatures approach desert conditions. The unexpected surprise is the quality of the dust. The essence of this dust is a contradiction in itself for a photographer. Dust is generally regarded as a foe. Dust is a scary term whispered sof...