AFRICAN CHRONICLES by Thandeka

    IN THE ABYSS           As the unending drips of water hit the floor, the atmosphere turns dire. The entire level is drenched and one can smell mud, blood and water so distinctly. Not to mention, the intimidating weight of the watery grave above them. In this setting, an unfortunate community lies defeated and in utter despair with one foot in the after-life. This is a place that turns men to boys and boys to men. In the bleak moment, a host of agonizing sounds emerge from the huge boulders, “Unyawo lwami! Mayibabo!!”, (My foot! Somebody help!) it continues. It is the voice of one nursing a raw wound from last night’s calamity. Countless others have fallen victim to the unforgiving boulders and some lay buried beneath the rubble. In the commotion and dust storm, many have been unable to liberate themselves from the danger and yet in this moment the brave one strives to survive. At a surprisingly secluded corner of the hell hole, tw...