Bukama

A very quick post from Bukama. No electricity. Running low on battery. Taylor can correct spelling, etc.

First, Bukama is hot. Sitting right now in the "court yard" of a "hotel" the district has put us up in. The "" mean that it's not what you're thinking. Just saying that this is an adventure.

Second, we made the rounds of official visits. Surprise! The territory administrator here is the same person who was the territory administrator in Kabalo last year when we were there. Those who followed last year's expedition know that we had a rough beginning, but a very happy ending. He was delighted today to greet us.

Third, we made a few parish visits. For one visit, we walked across the Congo River on the railroad bridge. Watch for rusted out holes in the walkway! Very cool views of the river, the boats, and the surrounding villages. Also, a bird's eye view of cholera. So many people living in poor sanitation and without clean drinking/washing water. The churches all have the same needs. Cement and roofing. Everyone is building. No one is finishing the building.

Fourth, we had a good walk through the rail yard, the boat yard, and several markets. A lot of commerce moving through Bukama.

Hopefully on our way to Kamina tomorrow. It's a long stretch. Can't make it in one day, so it looks like we'll be pitching tents tomorrow night.

Bob
Bukama