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Section 1	Mention of “endless war” during the time of the Derg. Inequitable land distribution under Haile Sellassie; popular uprising and formation of provisional military government. Land reform introduced: “farmers were … liberated from the burden of the landlords”. Inadequate pest control and agricultural training (e.g. in use of fertilisers) until recent arrival of development agencies – benefits of these.
Section 2	Idirs/Qires (traditional funeral associations) – being encouraged by SOS Sahel. Marriage more highly valued in the old days; divorce settlements also more equitable. Previously men kept concubines in towns and this was tolerated by their wives: “Now the men do not stick to one lover. They keep moving from one house to another and risk catching this new disease called AIDS.” Teaching children about family lineage – given little emphasis now that land is no longer inherited from relatives. Improved relations between Muslims and Christians – meeting hall built for (Muslim) blacksmiths: “This has demonstrated … how respectable their profession is.”
Section 3	Rising crime. Problems of caring for the elderly and handicapped. Women’s participation in development activities. Distinct cultural traditions of Meket people and differences with lowlanders.
Section 4	Description of places of worship and religious festivals. Own schooling interrupted because of marriage and family responsibilities. High value placed on educating all his children.
Section 5	Benefits of the road. Listening to the radio to learn about national developments. Change from traditional medicine to use of health clinics. Need for public awareness about sexually transmitted diseases and family planning education to reduce population growth.
Section 6	Experiences of famine in 1973 and 1984/5.