Goodbye Bunia

Goodbye Bunia

Our work at Samaritan’s Purse has come to a sudden end. For some months, the communication between Roelof and the management team in the US has been wobbly as he felt progressively more uncomfortable in the organisation. The feeling was mutual, as Roelof’s leadership style did not match expectation from the US team. Mid-February, a meeting with his manager escalated, which was the last straw that broke the camel’s back. Roelof was announced to leave on March 9^th. These events took place whilst I was in Uganda on holiday with the children.

As soon as I got back to Bunia we had to pack and say our goodbyes. Monday morning (12^th March) we flew to Goma and from there we traveled by boat to Bukavu. This is where ZOA Congo’s country office is based and there is a possibility Roelof can get employment here. This past week he has had discussions with the local team and the management team in the Netherlands.

Arrival at Bukavu

At Bukavu

Fishermen at lake Kivu

Displaced people

Unfortunately, the conflicts North of Bunia, near Djugu, are not over. It even seems to get worse as we hear stories of brutal murders in the villages. The people in Bunia are very alert and frightened. It seems like the attacks are happening closer and closer to the city. At night, gunshots are heard in the outskirts, but the center remains peaceful. The cause of the attacks is being heavily debated, but nobody knows for certain who is behind this horrible move. The leaders of the two local ethnic groups (Lendu and Hema) claim that there is no conflict between them currently.

Makeshift tents

Displaced people, waiting for food

Meanwhile the number of displaced people in Bunia, currently estimated at 50,000, grows steadily. About half of the people have been taken in by host families. The rest stay in makeshift camps around the city, of which the biggest camp is still based at the central hospital. Twice a day a meal is cooked for them, each person receiving about half a plate of food. This is nowhere near enough, and some are dying of hunger.

Two displaced people in despair

Food is being prepared

Thankfully there are private initiatives which alleviate the most urgent needs. Local churches collect clothes and money to help displaced people and many pray continuously. We have left this situation behind us, but the need remains. We join the churches in praying for an immediate end to the conflict in the Djugu.