One Family Shares Glimpse of Life

Post a Comment » Written on August 24th, 2006     
Filed under: News
KINSHASA, CONGO (August 24, 2006) – The following is an emailed report to friends from one family living in Kinshasa that provides some insight into the living conditions during this time of turmoil in the capital city, following the July 30 election. The name of the writer has been withheld for security reasons.

An Inside Look

Well, we are still here at the compound. We did manage to get two vehicles out to two of the compounds to take people who lived in that area. That’s where most of the families with children are.

Unfortunately two people got left behind and now the RSO says it is unsafe again, so they are very unhappy. The area where I live is blocked by the United Nations peacekeeping forces and no one is allowed in or out. That is where most of the fighting has been.

They are discussing the possibility of moving us to the Mobil Building, which is where USAID has its offices and some people live. We think there are enough spare bedrooms in people’s apartment to put the rest of us up. But, the word hasn’t been given for sure yet.

There was a lot of heavy artillery fire today – all morning and into very early afternoon. But since then, it has died down. The main road – 30 Juin – was/is closed down while it is being “cleaned up” of dead bodies. We only have about 45 minutes or so until it is dark again, so am not sure if we will get to move or not.

People are getting very cranky, especially those with kids and pets. I just keep thinking my two cats must still be okay. They probably ran out of food this morning, but hopefully they still have a bit of water left. The one loves to drink from the faucet – too bad she can’t figure out how to turn it on.

Anyway, if and when I ever get home, I will not be able to send any emails as I don’t have a computer at home.

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