IGBY PRIZE NONFICTION ESSAY: Festive Nostalgia For A Tanzanian Christmas

An Igby Prize for Nonfiction essay Tanzanian Christmas

When I think of the Christmas season in Tanzania, the image of the tropical flame tree comes alive.

We had a flame tree in front our house, a landmark that never failed anyone giving directions to Mama Gonsalves’ house. December is the month that these trees are in full blossom, giving us all a Christmassy feel. The strong red flowers and green leaves are the perfect combination for a natural Christmas tree and it is dubbed ‘Christmas tree’ by Tanzanians. When the leaves fall, the tree still remains covered with red blossoms only and provides useful shade.

[Continue reading at The Kalahari Review]

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