Harmattan

We may have missed the beginning of the dry West African Harmattan trade wind while we were in the US, but its effects are readily apparent now. Dust and more dust supply a steady coat of cocoa brown colored powder everywhere. One can thoroughly clean the surface of any object and in no time at all, a new layer of dust will appear.

The Harmattan blows from the Sahara into the Gulf of Guinea, occurring in winter between the end of November and mid-March. Temperatures can be noticeably lower than usual. The weather change fluctuates with both cool and hot alternating conditions. Sometimes visibility can range from a dull haze to heavy fog. Outbreaks of fire are also a concern.

The University For Development Studies here in Tamale has a Harmattan School whose objective is the study and discussion of developmental issues affecting northern Ghana and to suggest solutions for them. Personally, I haven't met anyone yet who can provide a solution for keeping a clean house during Harmattan's reign. However, aside from at least wiping dust off the table before we eat, I have become quite accustomed to ignore the constant build-up on floors, windows and most of the other furniture. As the saying goes, "It is what it is."