Today we left Goma and have arrived in Bukavu. It was an adventure once again - as they say the journey is often more important than the destination. We had the privilege of getting on the MONUSCO helicopter! It was a 30 minute ride over lake Kivu and a beautiful picturesque ride. The seats were the most uncomfortable I have experienced...but hey the ride was free!
As we arrived in Bukavu we could see the landscape was very different from Goma. Vegetation, the colour of the soil and the picturesque scenery around the lake is beautiful. Our driver, Alexis, arrived right on time to collect us from the airport. He appeared in a Roots t-shirt!
So we then embarked on dirt roads and a 35km ride that took almost 1hour and 45 minutes. As we drove in this toyota corrolla, we felt many times like the bottom of the car would fall off! We passed three military checkpoints, one in which our driver was asked for cigarettes. The military presence is much more visible in Bukavu and clearly different personnel! Upon approaching one checkpoint, we found out we had a flat tire.....So, there we were in the middle of the bush by a very small village changing a tire. Needless to say we were the local attraction for the next 15 minutes.
We look forward to our meetings tomorrow - Panzi Hospital, a children's centre, and Search for Common Ground.
Shelly and Tanya
I just finished reading through your blog, this is an amazing trip Shelly, and great work you're doing. Keep it up and good luck.
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