The Mwenga is located in the mountains west the town of Bukavu. This region has experienced several years of war and insecurity. Last year the Chinese have rehabilitated the road to Mwenga Centre, which helped open up the area and stimulate economic activities. I went for the first time last week. IRC has initiated a program of community projects and wanted to see some of the current projects. These are mostly small projects: the development of sources, tracks, and construction of classrooms and health stations. 
The road is relatively good (by Congolese standards) and we first spun at speed. But shortly before Mwenga, repairs were underway and so we had to wait over an hour before moving. This allowed me to admire the Chinese genius at work. 
Finally went to the parish, we have benefited, my colleague and myself Hyacinthe, the end of the day to walk the main street (and almost unique) of the city (town or large village, I do not know). I think I was the only "muzungu" in the area and my presence has not gone unnoticed, as usual. What was funny was, however, let me deal with several Chinese children. Because the only foreigners here are mostly Chinese. I did not have Asian features, but still ... 
The next day we went on two bikes (and I drove one of them of course) to explore nearby villages. In nature, on small winding trails. Really beautiful! And to achieve some projects had to leave the bike and walking trails. 
was mainly visited classrooms, construction and facilities of sources. You see here some pictures. 
In many communities we have met members FDLR (or Interahamwe) who settled there. These are former Hutu militiamen who fled Rwanda after the genocide (including having the most part). They have caused many problems in Kivu in recent years but now they seem pretty calm. We have thus explained our work and they let us continue on our way quietly. 
On the way home, problems with the chain on a motorcycle (mine) and then puncture. Fortunately, we were not very far from the base to get help. 
What has completed a busy day in the field.
The next day we went on two bikes (and I drove one of them of course) to explore nearby villages. In nature, on small winding trails. Really beautiful! And to achieve some projects had to leave the bike and walking trails. 
was mainly visited classrooms, construction and facilities of sources. You see here some pictures. 
In many communities we have met members FDLR (or Interahamwe) who settled there. These are former Hutu militiamen who fled Rwanda after the genocide (including having the most part). They have caused many problems in Kivu in recent years but now they seem pretty calm. We have thus explained our work and they let us continue on our way quietly. 
On the way home, problems with the chain on a motorcycle (mine) and then puncture. Fortunately, we were not very far from the base to get help. 
What has completed a busy day in the field. The next day we returned to Bukavu via another path (Walungu, a beautiful area which I'll soon) because there was a demonstration of teachers and students blocked the main road. Still the action in Kivu!
0 comments:
Post a Comment