Survivor 2 Fever Hits Africa
AFRICA– The juggernaut reality TV program “Survivor: The Australian Outback” has become such an  international phenomenon that even the simple people of the Horn of Africa are getting in on the craze.
   The residents of the Ethiopian village of Ordie can't get enough “Survivor” action.  Everyone in the town participates, young and old.
   The one major difference between the Australian made-for-TV contest and the African one is that the Africans are in it for the joy of the game, not the money.  Of course there are similarities, like the tendency for participants to complain about the small food portions.
   “I'm so hungry,” said Bikila Bonkola, an 8-year-old contestant.  “I haven't eaten in a week.  The only comfort I get is from hugging my stomach, making it feel as if I am full.”
   “I think the parasite in my stomach is trying to eat through the wall of my intestine,” said Kalila Berhanu.  “I will be dead before my child is born.”
   The African contestants must find their own food, just like those in Australia. 
    “I had a cow, but it died,” said Yohaness Abayie.  “Then I sold everything I owned for food, but it is all gone now because I had to feed those who came to my wife's funeral two days ago.”
   The contestants, much like those in Australia, have predictably had trouble adjusting to the harsh environment.
   “Half of my family is dead,” said Chewe Lajebo, another competitor.  “I would possibly have a chance at getting some food or money, but I spend all day digging graves and burying bodies.”
   “I held my mother in my arms as she died last night,” said Berhanu.  “I don't have the strength to remove the corpse from my home.”
   This “Survivor” isn't without its own form of the “Immunity Idol” either. 
   “Whoever has the guns has the power,” said Abayie.  “Any chance of us getting aid is quelled by warlords who intercept the supplies.”
   Despite the troubles they face, the Ethiopians realize it's only a game and remain optimistic.
   “I welcome the beautiful release death will bring,” said Bonkola.  “I stay alive only to help my mother and six brothers.  The day I bury them is the day I too will be buried.”
   There has been no end date fixed for the African “Survivor.”  Their apparent attitude is: Why set one?  These fanatics are having too much fun imitating their favorite show to think about ever stopping.