Makom is a farming community with an abundance of crops during the planting season. Apart from the staple crops of corn, millet, yams, roots, sweet potatoes and bananas, the farmers also raise animals for food and sale. It is interesting to note that some individuals in the community buy items such as sugar, rice, and beans in bulk and resell them to supplement their families’ income. The community has one church and two voodoo temples. While the lack of educational facilities in the area may pose a challenge, the children in Makom are determined to pursue their education and must walk to school in larger sections of the area. Most of the houses in Makom are built with rocks or cinder blocks and covered with tin roofs. Despite the lack of modern amenities, the community has a strong sense of unity and resilience. The people of Makom are known for their hospitality and warm welcome to visitors.
Back in 1980, a massive water reservoir was constructed in the region, which collected piped water from a large source. The builders of the reservoir extended pipes down to Cazale village, providing hundreds of people with a water supply. Upon completion, there was a dedication ceremony, which locals attended to celebrate the momentous occasion. Today, the reservoir stands as a proud symbol of the community, visible to all who enter or exit the village .It has brought about positive changes in many areas of life and has set the foundation for future development. The reservoir stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people come together to work towards a common goal.
The residents of Makom face significant challenges when it comes to accessing medical care. The area lacks any medical facilities, leaving locals with only two options: visit the RHFH clinic in Cazale or seek help from a voodoo priest. Most women give birth at home with the assistance of a birth attendant, and only in cases of severe complications do they attempt to make it to a hospital. Furthermore, funeral customs dictate that the deceased must be buried within 24 hours of passing. If the family has the necessary funds, they may opt to send their loved one to a morgue to allow for more time to prepare for the wake and burial. Despite these challenges, Makom remains a pleasant place to live. The area is lush with trees that bear fruit, such as bananas, and residents have access to water. In their free time, locals enjoy watching short movies or videos on their phones or sharing jokes with one another. Overall, the community in Makom relies on each other for support and resilience in the face of adversity.
