In the last three years I have had the opportunity to get to know Hezron Mbise on many different levels. I first came to Tanzania as a student with the School for International Training (SIT) in February of 1998. During this time Hezron was selected by the school to act as head cook of the safari staff for the two-month safari. As a cook Hezron showed that he was resourceful, dedicated and largely talented. Regardless of extraneous circumstances, he managed to accommodate the individual dietary needs the students.
During this time his workdays stretched from dawn, when he would prepare eggs, scones, fruit, and tea for breakfast, until after dusk when he and his cook staff would wash the dishes of the twenty-five students on safari. Hezron always worked efficiently and cooperated with his co-workers to make sure they did the same. He was responsible for training the other cooks as it was their first time to work as cooks on safari. I, like many of the other students got to know Hezron in the evenings while preparing dinner. However, it wasn't until my second trip to Tanzania that I developed a strong friendship with Hezron.
Upon my arrival, Hezron traveled ten hours south to pick me up. This time I was without the protection of SIT, yet I never felt uncomfortable with Hezron. Not only did he look out for my best interest, he proved to be an incredible host. I spent a total of two weeks at his home in Arusha. At the time I needed respite from my travels and Hezron couldn't have been more welcoming. Once I had recovered and was ready to move on, as a favor Hezron took myself a few friends on a trip to Lake Natron. Hezron responsibly organized the whole trip. He purchased food, supplies, prepared his land rover, arranged for a driver that was familiar with the area, found a guard and guide, and did a 100 other things to ensure a safe and successful trip. I was very impressed and will always be grateful for Hezron's efforts.
With pleasure recommend Hezron and his services to anyone that is interested in going on safari. I have a great appreciation for Hezron and not only consider him as an excellent safari organizer, but also as a wonderful friend. I hope that you can get to know his virtues like I have.
- Kyle King