Dar es Salaam, Jan. 3 -- Dear Aunt Sophia, Wai, shangazi witu Sophia!

My dear aunt, I begin this letter with our warm Nyamwezi greeting to let you feel, even from far away, the embrace of Ukumbisiganga.

I hope this letter finds you strong and peaceful, living well under the watchful eyes of our Nyamwezi ancestors, guided and protected by their wisdom, led as always by the spirit of our great chief, Mirambo, whose courage and leadership still walk with us in stories, in prayers and in the beating of our hearts.

May their blessings rest upon you wherever you are. Here at home, I am happy to tell you that we are all doing okay. Life continues with its challenges, as it always has, but we remain grateful and united.

The children are growi...