As you are all no doubt aware, the political system in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been undergoing some upheaval. The eastern cities of Goma and Bukavu have been taken over by a rebel military group known as M23. As a result of those attacks, there were a few days of protests and rioting in the western capital Kinshasa in early January, which targeted some embassies including those of neighboring Rwanda and Uganda. Fortunately for the past several weeks, things have been relatively quiet in Kinshasa. Many NGO’s and businesses are still operating, but things are in no way back to normal. Negotiations are under way to cease the fighting and to reach a peaceful solution to a conflict that has been happening in the East for the last 30 years.
Kandale in many ways is an oasis from the world outside, life goes on without disruption, not unlike during the pandemic. At the board meeting last month, the REVE Kandale Board discussed ways to continue with all the ongoing projects, in view of the current situation in DRC. Colette is still intent on returning in March for six weeks to complete the roof of the first block of classes and to complete a second block, roof and all. If there are enough materials they will begin work on the foundation for the third block. The intention for this year is to complete three blocks of classes.
The second truck was originally scheduled to leave for Kandale in mid-January. There have been delays, but the truck left on Wednesday the 19th along with Olivier to assess the materials available on site for the construction. Unfortunately, the truck broke down on the way to Gungu and a replacement part arrived the next day. The truck made it to Gungu on Saturday after getting stuck along with several other trucks on the uphill climb from the Kwilu bridge to Gungu. Fortunately a REGIDESO truck (Congolese national water service company) helped to pull everyone out. The following day the truck was again delayed heading to Kandale due to significant erosion en route. The crew spent many hours filling in the ruts to allow the truck to continue. The truck made it successfully to Kandale this past Sunday around 10PM and was unloaded the following morning. One might think about the journey to Kandale as a metaphor for the greater challenges DRC is facing. The road is arduous and tests the mettle of those making the journey, but in order to make progress, people must believe that the sacrifices are worth the journey.
Many young people headed down the hill early to prepare the stones in anticipation of the empty truck. The truck made several trips, carrying big stones and sand up to the construction site, before returning to Kikwit. Despite all the difficulties along the way, everything came together in preparation for the construction of the next two blocks.
The community has been digging out red clay to make bricks and tirelessly collecting the small stones needed for the foundation. Presently Doka and his crew have created over three thousand bricks in anticipation of the miracle team, Colette, Frederick and Olivier.
Even though the rainy season arrived late, the peanut crop yield was excellent. Corn has supplanted millet at the grinder, and Bea has begun preparing the harvested fields for beans.
The fourth and final ABCD training will commence and word has gone out to many distant communities. This year’s session will focus on building local economies and learning how to start a successful small business of which Tumba and her beignets are an excellent example. There will be presentations on agriculture and composting along with other trainings on soap making and bread making. After the ABCD training, there will be another training for the referees in preparation for the upcoming regional girl’s soccer tournament in June this year. This will be the first tournament focusing on girls in the region. Rumor has it that members of the National Soccer Team will be present for the kick off to inspire the region and bring attention to this one of a kind event.
Lastly, 'Ami du Livre', a pilot program to instill a love for books and reading in small children, continues to grow stronger and stronger. Recently parents attended a meeting to discuss their responsibilities, conduct and hygiene. The meeting was chaired by Khenda and mama Patience, the Présidente of women in Kandale.
As always we wish Colette and her team a safe journey. She has a very full agenda for her visit.
