Chelsie Frank in the Congo

Urgent Peace and Justice in the DRC- Join us in prayer and solidarity

2011-12-07T03:29:00.001-06:00

On November 28^th, DR Congo went to cast their votefor presidential and parliamentary candidates. It is their 3^rddemocratic elections since independence. The day after elections our colleaguessaid, “On the election day, people were excited to vote but now people havemixed feelings as they wait for the results: fear for the unknown and joy forhaving fulfilled their right. Especially with rumors people seem more anxiousand fearful. But as for us, we are trusting in the Lord who has the history ofCongo in His hands, not politicians or super powers. Let us wait and see God'splan for our country today and for the years to come!"

Great Lakes region political analyst, Laura Seay, said aboutthe polls, “Massive problems plagued the process, including hundreds ofthousands of registered voters finding their names missing from the electoralrolls, polling stations lacking sufficient numbers of ballots (and, in somecases, not having any ballots at all), and voters having little guidance onwhere to vote if they were at the wrong precinct. Accusations of fraud areflying, with several opposition candidates already rejecting the uncountedresults and widespread reports of pre-ticked ballots, pre-stuffed ballot boxesand extra ballots being flown into the country.”

The results of the election were scheduled to be announced onDecember 6^th. The weekleading up to the announcement was a mix of hope and fear. Hope for change andprogress in the governance of Congo; fear of violence and instability thatcould come from candidates vying for power. Among 11 presidential candidatesthere are 2 strong contenders: the incumbent, Joseph Kabila and a man who has ledbeside Mobutu, Etienne Tshisekedi. Kablia has propped up soldiers around thecountry and threatened people with violence if they didn’t vote for him. Tshisekedihasn’t proved a peaceful alternative. On several occasions he has incitedviolence by asking his supporters to “terrorize” the government.

Last week Seay said it looked like, “Tshisekedi may win theelection outright and, contrary to all expectations, it is within the realm ofpossibility that Kabila would gracefully step down and allow a transfer ofpower to take place. The most likely outcome, however, is that Kabila willclaim victory while Tshisekedi's supporters take to the streets in protest. Ifthis happens, the international community will likely push for a power-sharingarrangement as it did in Kenya after 2007's disputed elections. Whether Kabilaand Tshisekedi could actually come to a power-sharing agreement is impossibleto predict.”

Yesterday the results should have been announced. Thecountry is being heavily patrolled and policed. There are members of theCongolese police force, UN soldiers, Congolese national army soldiers, andneighboring country military support. Some estimates say sixty-nine percent ofvotes have been counted. Preliminary polls show that Kabila is leading by ageneral margin of 10%. However, the official announcement has been postponed untilThursday.

Seay says, “The international community provided inadequatesupport for Congo's 2011 elections, and it is inadequately prepared to dealwith any kind of violent or prolonged post-electoral crisis. Diplomatic effortsto prevent violence and bring all parties to the table should be intensifiedand should involve international actors at the highest levels. TheInternational Criminal Court should follow through on its promise to closely scrutinizeany violence associated with the elections. All actors should hope for thebest, but be prepared for the worst.”

I want to ask you to take time to pray for peace and justiceto reign in the DRC. There is an African Swahili proverb that says, “When andwhere two elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled. (Wapiganapotembo, nyasi huumia.)” May God protect the civilians, thwart plans of wickedpeople seeking to benefit from instability, give wisdom to those in power,bring stabilizing pressure at a macro/international level, and strengthenCongolese democracy.

Psalm 27- “The Lord is the light and salvation of the Congolese people;whom shall we fear? The Lord is the stronghold of our lives; of whom shall webe afraid? When evildoers assail us to eat up our flesh, our adversaries andfoes, it is they who stumble and fall. Though an army encamps against us, ourhearts shall not fear; though war arise against us, yet we will be confident…Hear,O Lord, when we cry aloud; be gracious to us and answer us!...Teach us your way,O Lord, and lead us on a level path despite our enemies...Give us not up to thewill of our adversaries…they breathe out violence. We believe we will look uponthe goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! We wait for the Lord, withcourage…we wait for the Lord.”

__________________

You may be wondering, “SoChelsie, are you safe!?” The leadership of UCBC decided to send me toKamapala, Uganda for the election period. I am here working remotely with mycolleague Bethany and staying up to date on the progress of the elections. Mycell phone contact is +256704361366 I’ll return to DRC when the leadership ofUCBC feels it is safe and stable. Thank you for joining us in prayer andsolidarity. I am happy to report that the situation in Beni has been relativelystable and no one associated with UCBC has been in harm’s way. UCBC cancelledclasses yesterday and today. Most businesses in Beni were also closed. Andtoday is my birthday! I’m blessed to have colleagues and friends here inKampala to celebrate!

Jason Stearn's Recent Article in 'the Guardian'

2011-12-05T17:54:00.001-06:00

The verdict of Congo's voters must not be sacrificed for 'stability'

Foreign powers who choose to look the other way as polls are rigged will hardly make the country more stable
---Jason Stearns; December 5th 2011

Tens of millions of Congolese went to the polls last Monday. It was an emotional day: women with infants strapped to their back waited for hours in the sun, while elsewhere old men hobbled through knee-deep water to cast their ballots. And yet, as the country heads towards a post-election crisis, western diplomats seem ready to see the voters' verdict sacrificed for a misguided notion of stability.

These elections, the second since the end of a bloody civil war, have been mired in controversy for the past year. In January, President Joseph Kabila's party orchestrated a change in the constitution, getting rid of a runoff round of polls for the presidency. This effectively pitted opposition candidates against each other, improving Kabila's chances. The election law was also changed, allowing the ruling coalition to appoint the head of the election commission. Nonetheless, the incumbent has faced stiff competition, especially from firebrand opposition leader Etienne Tshisekedi, who has been able to attract crowds of over 100,000 people. There has been no reliable polling, but preliminary results from voting stations suggest that the race is tight, meaning even minor rigging could be a game-changer.

Then, election day came with a crescendo of controversy. While most of the country voted peacefully, there were hundreds of incidents small and large. In the central Kasai provinces, dozens of polling stations had to close or were burned down by mobs following allegations of fraud. In the east, soldiers in Masisi territory forced voters in dozens of villages to vote for their candidate, in one case tying up voters and taking their ID cards to vote for them. In the western city of Mbandaka, the provincial governor chased opposition witnesses out of his polling station and then spent almost an hour inside before leaving.

Election results are now being compiled, with official tallies showing Kabila leading by a hefty margin. But these figures are again hotly contested, not least because the election commission has not disaggregated the results by polling station, so they can be crosschecked with those of independent observers. Opposition parties, which had officials in most polling stations countrywide, say they have proof the tallies are false. This is the basic bind the country is in: with the credibility of the election commission tarnished, neither of the main contenders will accept defeat. Tshisekedi had declared himself the winner, while Kabila's campaign has said it can't lose.

The sad truth is that it is no longer a question of whether there will be a crisis tomorrow, when official results are supposed to be announced; the question is how bad it will be. Kinshasa is simmering with rumours and anger, while police and presidential guards have been deployed in force throughout town. If Kabila is announced the winner, there will be urban unrest. If Tshisekedi perseveres, army officers in various parts of the country have threatened violence.

In the face of this predicament, the reaction of senior diplomats has been half-hearted. In a closed-door meeting of the UN security council on Friday, some European countries voiced concern at the irregularities, but the body was too divided to take a strong stance. Only one ambassador took part in the meeting; others were too busy working on Syria and Egypt. According to sources present at the meeting, the council thinks it will be difficult to know how much fraud took place and whether it affected the outcome. The priority is to prevent the UN from becoming an arbiter and to ensure stability. The fact that ambassadors find Tshisekedi an unsavoury leader does not help matters.

Their analysis and priorities are ill-founded. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has suffered from violence for the past 15 years, often due to unaccountable leadership. Looking the other way as polls are rigged will hardly make the country more stable. It is also not true that we may never get to the bottom of electoral fraud. There are around 40,000 Congolese observers from churches and civil society monitoring the polls, alongside several hundred foreigners. The election commission must urgently publish poll results in a disaggregated form, so observers can verify them. Polls should then be held again in the many places where they were cancelled, and allegations of fraud jointly investigated with international observers.

We are entering a critical period in Congolese history. Foreign countries, which provide over $3bn in aid a year to Congo, have a heavy responsibility to allow the Congolese decide their own fate. They should not shirk it.

Update on the Elections from Bethany

2011-12-04T07:35:00.001-06:00

Visit Bethany's (my colleague at UCBC) blog for updated links to websites reporting about the DRC 2011 Elections.

Quote from a colleague in Beni, "On the election day, people were excited to vote but nowpeople have mixed feelings as they wait for the results: fear for the unknownand joy for having fulfilled their right. Especially with rumors people seemmore anxious and fearful. But as for us, we are trusting in the Lord who hasthe history of Congo in His hands, not politicians or super powers. Let us waitand see God's plan for our country today and for the years to come!"

Bethany's Blog

Why should the US care about elections in Congo...? Report from Laura Seay

2011-12-02T00:42:00.001-06:00

The Atlantic Article: In Congo Elections, More Than Just Democracy at Stake

NOV 29 2011, 1:24 PM ET

The Democratic Republic of Congo has made important strides since its first-ever elections in 2006, but this week's vote could put it all at risk

LAURA SEAY - Laura Seay is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. She blogs at Texas in Africa.

A Congolese volunteer watches ballot boxes in Kinshasa / AP

Though many polling stations lacked a fraction of the necessary ballots and serious pre-election violence broke out in several places, presidential and parliamentary elections took place in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday as scheduled. The campaign was highly contentious; the country is still struggling to recover from nearly two decades of violence, state failure, and general insecurity. The DRC's first democratic elections since independence, in 2006, garnered lots of international attention and financial support. The 2006 polls were also contentious, but they ran remarkably smoothly, especially considering the logistical challenges of holding an election in a country so large and with such weak infrastructure.

Things are harder this year. Donor governments, which have weaker economies and plummeting foreign aid budgets, gave Congolese authorities significantly less money to assist with logistics and transportation for this year's elections. Fewer international observers will monitor fewer polling places and counting centers. Several electoral rallies and protests have turned violent, local tensions are boiling over, and leading opposition candidate Etienne Tshisekedi is now openly calling on his supporters to "terrorize" the government. International observers are increasingly concerned that the elections could result in significant violence. These fears are well-founded and the international community has no viable plans in place to address the consequences if the worst occurs.

Why should the international community care about Congo's elections, which look increasingly likely to be marred by violence? First and foremost, we should care because the DRC government's legitimacy is at stake. The Congolese government provides almost no public services or public goods, so elections and international recognition are among the few bases upon which its legitimacy rests. Many Congolese saw the 2006 elections as the international community's way of legitimating transitional president Joseph Kabila's rule. They are correct that most donor states wanted Kabila to be elected, but there is little reason to believe that Kabila did not honestly win in 2006. He had strong support in the eastern provinces, where almost all of the population supported him in the first and second round.

There were two reasons for Kabila's electoral success in the east in 2006 -- but they might not hold today. First, he ran on a platform of peace and development. Second, Kabila speaks Kiswahili, the lingua franca of the East, and ethno-linguistic voting patterns essentially determined the race.

Voters there have since become disillusioned by Kabila's failure to end the violence that plagues the region, and they have not seen the development gains he promised in the 2006 campaign. Faced with this knowledge, Kabila's party changed the country's constitution from a two-round, first-past-the-post system to a one-round, winner-takes-all system, which improves his odds at reelection. Since the opposition has failed to unite behind one candidate, it is likely that Kabila will win in this new system. While there is no reliable, systematic polling on the elections, most knowledgeable observers believe that Kabila will probably win with approximately 30 to 35 percent of the vote.

If he does, it could lead to disaster. Kabila's legitimacy as the winner will be immediately questioned, particularly by the population in Kinshasa, the capital and a major city in the country's west, where few people will know anyone who voted for Kabila. Western Congolese almost universally voted against Kabila in 2006. Today, rumors in the west run rampant that Kabila is "not really Congolese" -- his real mother, the rumor goes, is Rwandan, meaning that Kabila does not have a legitimate claim to the presidency. Yes, Congo has birthers, too.

Most members of the Congolese diaspora are stridently opposed to Kabila's rule and may use social media and other outlets to argue that he stole the election. That only a limited number of international observers are present to confirm or reject the election's validity could compound Kabila's potential legitimacy problem, as do the credible, widespread allegations of fraud in the voter registration process. Congolese voters have been watching the Arab Spring and the results produced by millions taking to the streets to protest perceived illegitimate or oppressive rule. Supporters of opposition candidates will probably not hesitate to attempt the same, though they would likely be met with a violent response. In the absolute worst-case scenario, it is unfortunately plausible that some groups could resort to attempting full-scale civil war.

Despite the ongoing troubles in the east, the DRC is more stable today than it was five years ago. Several militants groups have laid down their arms or integrated into the national army. While most people here still live in desperate poverty, there are small signs that the economy is strengthening. Transportation infrastructure is getting vastly better thanks to assistance from the Chinesegovernment. With assistance from the European Union, health care infrastructure and access are improving. But, if the 2011 elections leads to violence, all of these gains are at risk, as is the stability of the entire region. It is critical that donor states develop a plan to ensure stability during and after the election campaign. The International Criminal Court prosecutor has already warned Congolese candidates that it is watching and will claim jurisdiction over any electoral violence. This is a good first step, but more significant security and stabilization plans are critically needed -- and soon.

Congo votes.

2011-11-28T05:52:00.001-06:00

Here is a short account of what were hearing from TV News Reports, online news sources, and friends in Beni/Butembo:

November 27th, 10pm--
"Some of the voting stations have changed last minute causing a bit of uncertainty. Not to mention that many people who paid and registered to vote over the last few months can't find their names on the voter registration records. This means they won't be able to vote tomorrow andthey are starting to cry, ‘corruption!’ Despite the reports that CENI (the Congolese Electoral Commission) hasn't delivered all the ballots were being told that everyone will vote tomorrow. No delays. It's all over the radio."--friends in Beni

"Opposition leader, Tshisekedi, has been placed on house arrest for instigating violence." --Aljazeera

"People in Kinshasa have been buying machetes and sharpeningthem [in anticipation for election unrest]. They are saying to themselves, ‘if anybody bothers me I will use this.’The tension is high there."--friend from Butembo

"Kabila keeps saying that he's 100% sure he's going to win and if not there's sure to be violence." --friends in Beni

November 28th, 12:00am-3:00pm--
"The elections in Beni are moving along peacefully."--facebook status update from friend in Beni

"...hundreds of thousands of voters in South Kivu are not listed in the voter registration lists...some ballots are arriving with Kabila's name already checked off..." --online blogger in South Kivu

"people who are not listed on the registration lists (in Beni) have been allowed to vote, but have to be listed separate from the registered voters. They are writing their names down on a piece of paper." --friends in Beni

"In Kinshasa, the police fired live ammunition on opposition supporters. The first assessment reported 10 deaths and 40 serious injuries according to hospital and radio sources" --online news source The Beni-Lubero

Masked gunmen opened fire with automatic weapons at a polling station in Lubumbashi, the capital of Democratic Republic of Congo's Katanga mining province, The governor of the province said as presidential elections took place on Monday."Three people were killed, seven were arrested and five handed themselves over after being surrounded by the army," Moise Katumbi, the governor of the local Katanga province told Reuters by telephone from the city. --online news source Reuters News

"I'm coming to elect and really it was amazing.so we are the ones who will make brighter day, let's start giving there's a choice we're making and we'are saving our lives cos we'll make a better day just you and me.be bless Congo DR and God the mighty be glorified in this election.thx" --facebook status update from student in Beni

"Hello out there! I'm safely back in Beni this morning. As this was my objective, once I reached home, I went immediately to vote. I'm proud of being part of my country voters. Please, let us pray for the results, especially, politicians and the population's reactions." --facebook status update from friend in Beni

Websites to follow for updates:

The Beni Lubero Online

Congo Siasa- Jason Stearn's blog about 'Congo Politics and Tribulations'

CENI- Congolese Electoral Commission

Friends of the Congo- Election Reports

Blogs worth reading:

Texas in Africa- an academic blog for politics, security, development, and advocacy

Congo Siasa- Jason Stearn's blog about 'Congo Politics and Tribulations'

Bethany in the DR Congo- my colleague at UCBC (currently in exile with me)

The Enough Project: "The Kivus Without Kabila- A Return to Full-Out War?"- An advocacy organization looks at the political climate in North and South Kivu in relation to the current administration's use of former Rwandan soldiers in the policing the region

News reports/articles:

BBC- "Congo Votes Amid Fears of Violence"

Voice of America Reports: Polls open in DRC Elections, African Union Proving Support for DRC Elections, Electoral Commission says DRC '99% Ready' for Elections

Aljazeera-

DR Congo voters: What elections mean to us

Citizens in eastern DRC tell Al Jazeera why they are looking forward to national elections on November 28.

HEAL Africa's Report about Elections

Mutanni Radio- Special Elections Reports

Kabila's campaign billboard; could someone please explain to me how a yacht (third picture featured in the bilboard) communicates fiscal responsibility or the interests of the Congolese people!?

"The Church Must Influence All Citizens and Permeate All Parties" -W.Temple

2011-11-28T05:29:00.001-06:00

“The Church MustInfluence All Citizens and Permeate All Parties” –W. Temple
(19th Century English Archbishop, Professor, Reformer, and Social Activist)

This morningas I wake, the 2011 Congolese elections begin. Today the Congolese people willvote for their President and 500 members of their national assembly. As I read WilliamTemple’s reflections on social order and Christian duty I think of Congo. Hesaid that the church’s influence on society should have two functions: makingChristian principles known and enabling the Christian to reshape the existing socialorder. In my estimation the church in Congo has failed in the latter function.

Congolesesociety is converted to Christianity, but not discipled. Eighty percent of the populationidentifies as Christians. Theopolitician, Joseph Kiza, who teaches in theTheology and Leadership department at UCBC, says that there is a universalChristian identity but many people are simply church-goers. These people cantell you about Christian values, but does their faith equip them to change theexisting social order to reflect these values? Kiza says that, “Congolese people are convinced thepoliticians are not Christians, yet they are in the pews with us.” If they arein church, why hasn’t their faith impacted our society?

Two years ago during a chapel service atUCBC an elderly preacher from the community shared a message with our students. Heasserted, “Politics are satanic. Christians should never be involved nor runfor political office lest they fall into an unholy life.” I was mortified. Later on that day a Congolese colleague explained that this was a popular Christian teaching in Congo 15 years ago. Thank God for professors like Kiza who feel differently. For the past few months professor Kiza has been speaking in churches and universities around North Kivu to share how Christians should be involved in politics.

WilliamTemple says that political issues must take people and society as they are, notas they should be. Accordingly, the Church’s belief in Original Sin should makeus sober and realistic judges of our present circumstances (Foster & Smith, 2005).Kiza challenges this notion asking people to reconsider in light of thecontemporary political realities.

Kiza reminds people that the churchis being used by politicians; they come to campaign and give money for churchendorsements. He calls for people to recognize that the very leaders whoembezzle money, lie, let impunity reign, and murder are the leaders thatChristians have elected. Christians have elected the leaders under which wesuffer. He insists that the church must be a part of the solution: the Congolesechurch must understand their identity before God and take their place insociety!

God loves Congo: the people, theland, the nation, and the region of Africa in which it resides. In Genesis 1and John 1:3 we see that God created the world. He created the land that wouldbecome Africa. He knew how Congo would be formed and the people that would livetherein. God looks down from heaven; he sees a Congolese man living in a city.He loves that man. The man is created in his very image. He is unique from theother creations; given responsibility to manage the creation, community, andcountry. God gives dignity to that man. The State exists for the citizens, notthe citizens for the state. The people in that state should extend the dignitywhich God bestows unto their fellow man.

In the book of Romans the apostlePaul exhorts believers to transform their actions by changing their thinking.He says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed bythe renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’swill is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2).” In the passage hegoes on to speak about Christians living in harmony and honoring thecontributions that each of them can make to their community. I pray that theCongolese people would continually identify things in society that can beimproved (regardless of their political party or the election results) andimplicate themselves in the work that it necessitates to bring change.

Asthe elections take place today and as the ballots are counted this coming weekI hope that Congo will remain stable. I pray that the Congolese Christian communitywould promote peace, participate in the democratic process, and exemplify submission to governing authorities. In thebook of Romans, the apostle Paul assures the Christians in Rome that God hasappointed their governing authorities to maintain order and justice in society,thus they should be respected (Romans 13). May this moment in Congo’s historycontribute positively to the democratization of the nation.

"Beni will be a safe place...but the Congolese Police don't have what they need to control a riot..."

2011-11-21T09:16:00.001-06:00

From the UN Nepalese Battalion chief, “I believe that thePNC and the FARDC can do this (manage the elections) but they don’t have theresources. For example when there was an uprising in September, the police andFRDC resorted to shooting in the sky. I kept telling them, ‘Don’t do that!’ andwe sent out troops to go and disseminate that message. But they did thatbecause they don’t have the batons, tear gas, shields, or rubber bullets tomanage the riots. Their commanders have been trained in places like Belgium,France, and even America. But the problem is resources: they don't have whatthey need to handle a rioting crowd. I see Beni as a peaceful place. I don’tthink we will have problems during the elections.”

This is a rough quote from the battalion chief stationedhere in Kipriyani (where UCBC is located) explaining about the securitysituation here in Beni and his opinion of the Congolese police and army. Forthe elections, the Congolese police (PNC) and the Congolese national army (FARDC)will be poised to manage the population. MONUSCO will support them as long asthey act in harmony with the peace mandate ‘upheld’ by the UN. However, if thePNC or FARDC acts contrarily the UN will ‘intervene’ for the protection andpeace of the Congolese people.

The DRC Elections In Numbers

2011-11-16T07:22:00.001-06:00

The 28 November DRC elections in numbers:

0: No female presidential candidate
11: The number of presidential candidates
37: The average number of candidates competing for one legislative seat
56: The number of pages each ballot has due to the large number of parliamentary candidates
147: The number of political parties in the DRC
500: The number of parliamentary seats being contested
62,500: Estimated number of polling stations across the country
32,500,000: The number of registered voters
64,000,000: The number of ballots printed in South Africa

Sources: CENI, MONUSCO, Carter Center, media
via Desiree Lwambo https://www.facebook.com/zwanck
Accessed 4 November 2011

The Power of Choice

2011-11-16T05:55:00.001-06:00

"A citizen is an actor in the leadership of the state, the power of the citizen lies in their choice, they determine their future- in Congo we need to see the will of the people in choosing their leader, you have the right to choose the person who will represent you." -A. Mwaka

Today at The Christian Bilingual University of Congo (UCBC) we welcomed a guest speaker, Arsen Mwaka PhD. He grew up in Beni, and studied at the University of Kisangani, University of Kinshasa (the capital city), completed his Masters in Belgium and Doctorate in France. Today he leads The Centre for Political Science Research at the University of Kinshasa and is very involved in the administration of the CECA20 church (an Evangelical denomination here in Congo). Mwaka also serves as a consultant for the US-based organization, Global Integrity.

He exhorted the UCBC assembly to look at the situation in Congo and understand that it is because the democratic process isn't functioning like it should. He spoke about the purpose and proper functioning of a parliament. He spoke about the qualifications of a candidate for the position of deputy. He insisted that this political position demands that the candidate can read and interpret the law. They also must be able to propose new legislation and serve as an inspectors of the state's activities. Yet all the deputies that have come to represent Beni in the national parliament are under-qualified. Since independence there hasn't been a single candidate from Beni with more than an undergraduate degree. No deputy from Beni has ever proposed new legislation. However, in the last five years, the Provincial Assembly in Goma (comprised of 43 representatives) did propose one new piece legislation.

Mwaka spoke at length about the incompetence of Congolese political leaders. He gave examples of election candidates coming to say, "Yes, I have my degree in civil engineering and don't you see how I've built this city." He gave examples of candidates who come bearing gifts of salt, soda, t-shirts, or beer and asked the assembly if these gifts were sufficient signs of political legitimacy.

He said, "Look at the function of the parliament in our country. Why is everyone here wanting to become a deputy? Who has studied law? I would like to demand that people in Congo give the correct importance to these positions. We have written 2 books that are showing the identities of political leaders here in Congo. In North Kivu the people are the youngest, were influential in the war, and their first job was in campaign management...Look at what has happened in the past and where we are now. Please note their ability to perform the function for which you are electing them, not something like singing or playing soccer. The first thing he [a candidate] must do is not talk about himself, but to [be able to] read the law and lead it's implementation in his province and state."

Mwaka then gave an exhortation to the teachers and professors at UCBC. He said they are charged with the responsibility of three tasks:

1. Conducting scientific research,
2. Teaching related to that research and
3. Serve society.

He concluded by stating that his goal is that Congo's government would function like other states in the world. Mwaka said, "It is revolting to me that we are ranked as the last country in the world because we should be ranked 1st...we are the first in potential. In our country we can see a war for oil, diamonds, coltan, water, food, and more...We are a veritable salad of war." As a solution he proposed leaders who are well qualified for political office.

The assembly ended with an opportunity for the students to pose questions.

The 2011 Elections in DR Congo

2011-10-28T04:34:00.001-05:00

by Gaetan L. Kashala

The DRC elections are an evaluation of effective governance.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a large country strategically positioned at the center of the African continent, is currently engaged in muddled preparations for an election that is scheduled to occur in November 2011. The DRC is a nation of approximately 70 million people that borders nine other countries. It has been “blessed” with an abundance of natural resources, including the second largest river in the world and some of the most precious metals and minerals. In spite of its many geological assets (an estimated $24 Trillion in unexplored natural resource wealth, according to a story in the African Business Magazine), the DRC has been plagued by interminable conflict that has resulted in the loss of close to 6 million people since 1998. According to the United Nations Statistics Division, the life expectancy of a Congolese citizen is less than 50 years, infant mortality is 116 out of 1,000 live births, under age 5 mortality is 199 out of 1,000 children, only 25% of females achieve a secondary level of education, and approximately 71% of the population lives in severe poverty (less than $1.25 per day). Recently, the DRC has been referred to as “the rape capital of the world” – a testament to the devastation that is ravaging the country. A recent study by the American Journal of Public Healthestimated that approximately 400,000 Congolese women were raped in a 12-month period from 2006 to 2007, equal to about 1,152 rapes taking place everyday. Understanding the scale of destitution and instability that confronts the DRC is something that truly taxes the imagination. In 2006, Antonio Guterres, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, said of the situation: “In terms of numbers, a tsunami hits Congo every six months." The state of affairs in the DRC effectively illustrates the disastrous results instigated by the combination of a shameful colonial legacy and failed government leadership.
The DRC provides us with an effective test case for the evaluation of democratic prospects on the African continent. Political stability in the DRC will attract a significantly more diversified form of international capital to the resource and non-resource sectors of the economy contributing to enhanced employment opportunities and quality of life improvements for the Congolese people. We could expect that this economic activity would be more easily exported to bordering countries as a result of the increased focus on regional economic integration and the deconstruction of tariffs, duties, and other impediments to cross border trade. Competent leadership must be in place in the DRC to take advantage of these opportunities. The upcoming elections in the DRC should serve as an examination of each candidate’s policy prescriptions to the DRC’s many ailments. This free and comprehensive inspection of a candidate’s future plans requires the cooperation of social institutions such as the media, civil society, and justice system in order to guarantee that the electorate is exposed to the ideas of all eligible candidates and is able to support the candidate of their choice without fear of repression. Regretfully, the current Congolese environment is devoid of this security framework.
Numerous publications have raised caution as to the ill-advised manner in which the elections in the DRC are being prepared. The International Crisis Group’s latest report on the DRC elections cites grave concerns with the voter registration process, noting a palpable level of distrust between those responsible for carrying out the elections and the electorate and political opposition. Mvemba P. Dizoleleand Anthony W. Gambino’s report on the DRC election, recently published through the Eastern Congo Initiative, identifies a number of serious technical concerns that would appear to threaten the holding of elections on November 28, 2011.
Additionally, the Dizolele and Gambino presented a sobering assessment of the current state of electoral preparations in the DRC at a panel hosted by the Brookings Institution’s Foreign Policy and the Africa Growth Initiative. Most alarming among the many technical and logistical issues raised are the questions pertaining to the integrity of the voter registry, which is yet to be validated, the 62,000 ballot boxes required for the elections, which are yet to be constructed by their Chinese contractors, the final electoral lists for the parliamentary elections which are yet to be determined, and the printing of ballots in South Africa that is yet to commence. It is important to be mindful that these elections are just a short six weeks away and that the DRC is a nation severely deficient in terms of the transportation infrastructure necessary to expeditiously disseminate these electoral materials. There is great anxiety surrounding the financial and logistical milestones that have been repeatedly delayed in combination with the Congolese government’s hostility toward any modification to what many believe to be an unrealistic electoral calendar. The actions taken by the Congolese authorities charged with administering these elections strain at credulity and increasingly point to a situation in which the Congolese electorate and international community will be presented with one of two disastrous outcomes. The first scenario points to rushed and ill-prepared elections carried out, bereft of any semblance of internationally accepted standards of freedom and transparency. The second ruinous option would see the incumbent administration unilaterally postpone the electoral calendar, thus provoking a constitutional crisis owing to the extrajudicial extension of the incumbent President’s executive mandate. This situation can largely be avoided but will require the hitherto absent good-faith cooperation of the Congolese government and an enhanced public posture by the international community.
Greater international engagement, specifically from the United States government, will be necessary to compel the Congolese administration’s fidelity to normative standards of democracy that are vital to creating a political environment characterized by the unrepressed flow of ideas. It is long overdue for the United States to appoint a special envoy for the DRC. This individual should report directly to the Secretary of State and play a critical role in the consolidation of United States policy toward the DRC. It is absolutely critical that United States DRC policy initiatives, such as Security Sector Reform, Institutional Capacity Building, Sexual Violence, Conflict Minerals, and Human Rights, be integrated in a holistic fashion that reflects a coherent strategy for the region. It is important to note that the United States has strategic interests in the DRC, specifically the continued access to critical natural resources, the maintenance of regional stability, the success of counter nuclear proliferation efforts to prevent uranium from ending up in the hands of rogue nations or terrorists, and the American business community’s penetration of African commercial markets.

Importantly, the American consumer has even been put on notice as to its inadvertent complicity in the chaos that has come to define the DRC. Section 1502 of the 2010 Financial Regulation Bill that was signed into law by President Barak Obama on July 21, 2010 promulgates a Congo Conflict Minerals provision that aims to prevent the trade in “(i) columbite-tantalite (coltan), cassiterite, gold, wolframite or their derivatives; and (ii) any other mineral or its derivatives determined by the Secretary of State to be financing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo…or a country bordering the DRC.” These precious materials, which are ubiquitous components in popular Western electronic devices (cell phones, laptops, iPods, etc.) have for years been fueling violence and instability in the country, particularly in the eastern provinces. Similar private sector initiatives such as the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition and Global E-Sustainability’s Conflict Free Smelters program serve as explicit recognition of Western involvement in the events that are taking place in the Congo and, more importantly, Western capacity to take corrective measures.

Competent and responsive governance is the foundation upon which the remedy to the DRC’s many ailments will be built. Fair and credible elections in the Congo are necessary to establish the competencies of anyone who aspires to lead the country.Today’s globally interdependent nature mandates the existence of a competent government administration capable of navigating the complex challenges and opportunities that exist. Capable leadership is a non-negotiable component of the effort to reverse the dismal trajectory on which the DRC has long been embarked.

Complacency at a time when so many are suffering is a morally indefensible proposition fundamentally inconsistent with the democratic ideals to which the Western world aspires. For those unmoved by the aforementioned philosophical argument, please be mindful that the consequences to such incessant deprivation and chaos will likely find their way to Western shores, albeit in a far more dramatic fashion. We all have the potential to play a great role in the DRC and the capacity to take immediate steps that will contribute to bringing peace, democracy, and prosperity to the country. A united international approach encouraging and keenly monitoring the fidelity towards democratic ideals in the DRC will be an important step towards the consolidation of democracy in the country.

The outcome of the 2011 African elections, and the DRC’s specifically, will serve as a clear metric of African capacity to redefine the prevailing notions of leadership. The elections represent a historic opportunity for the realignment of the continent’s governing structures. The success or failure of the democratic process in Africa is at the heart of the fate of over one billion people. The time for change in Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo is upon us.

Original Report available at http://fairobserver.com/article/2011-elections-congoPicture:
MINISTER OF JUSTICE AND HUMAN RIGHTS OF THE DRC, LUZOLO BAMBI, 2010 // SOURCE: CREATIVE COMMONS/ FLICKR/ US ARMY AFRICA

Radio Tele Bilingue (RTB)...UCBC's New Radio Station

2011-10-19T08:36:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends of Congo Initiative,

You've already demonstrated that you are interested in the work of Congo Initiative (CI) and the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC). Thank you for your support!

Please extend that support and help us expand CI's impact. Literacy. Health. Democratic Elections. These are powerful forces for change in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) right now. And you can help!

UCBC student broadcasting

For just $25 you can help Radio Tele Bilingue (RTB), CI's just-launched radio station, double its broadcast time from 4 hours/day to 8 hours OR MORE! To do that, however, RTB requires a dedicated generator to power the station. The total cost: $12,000.*

A generous donor has given a $5000 gift towards the purchase, shipping, and installation of the generator. If 300 people each give $25, we'll raise the addtional $7000 that will enable CI and UCBC to power RTB-a station with a potential listenership of 400,000-700,000 people!

A one-time donation of $25 is the price of going to the movies this month, a new sweater, or 5 lattes. A small amount makes a big difference at UCBC.

Please, donate today and be part of the power for change!

*The generator is a high-quality, dependable machine with a superb track-record, and an expected life-span of service of 30 years or more. Our staff and students will be able to maintain and service the equipment to assure dependability and service. Even after UCBC campus installs a fully-integrated power source that includes renewable energy sources, the generator will continue to serve as back-up power, necessary for assured operations.

RTB is on the air thanks to the generous support of a committed group of donors and the Eastern Congo Initiative.

Want to know how you can make a difference in the Congo right from your computer?

2011-09-23T23:46:00.000-05:00

One of the ways you can impact the DR Congo is easy. You can advocate for 'Conflict Free Minerals' and the full implementation of existing Public Law 109-456. As an American we have the luxury of free speech, free access to the democratic process, and the right to participate. Please, take a moment to advocate for these two pieces of legislation and be a part of promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the DR Congo.
Sign these petitions:
Speak up for Conflict Minerals Regulations from the Raise Hope campaign from the Enough Project
Fully Implement US Public Law 109-456 from Change.org

Find out more:
How does your computer, cell phone, or camera manufacturing company rank for conflict-free minerals? Find out and send them a note: Conflict Minerals Company Rankings
More information about policy issues and briefings from the Friends of the Congo website Policy Issues and Briefings or download the Action Kit
Discover the Christian Bilingual University of Congo's vision to train and develop strong leaders to transform their community and nation!
Read about how the US Government can influence stability in the DRC from Eastern Congo Initiative's White Paper: Strengthening United States Foreign Policy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Check out Ben Affleck's editorial in the Washington Post, How the US can help stabilize DR Congo

*Photo- Miner in DRC

UCBC's First Graduation! July 2011

2011-09-19T22:27:00.002-05:00

In July, 2011 UCBC celebrated its first graduation. Supporters of CI-UCBC, friends from around the world, and family members of UCBC students gathered on July 31 to celebrate this milestone. Enjoy this pictorial account!

Students line up. Procession to the ceremony.

Underclassmen greet the visitors.

Dr. Kasali and the Mayor of Beni congratulate graduate, Othy Vitswamba, President of the student body.

Friends, family, and fellow students congratulate the graduates.

Pastors and church leaders extend their hands to pray over the new graduates.

School admistrator, Papa Mbusa and his wife watch the ceremony.

Holding their diplomas.

Celebrating with song.

Mama Deky soaks up the moment with her daughter, Margaret.

Congo in Crisis Documentary

2011-09-19T21:23:00.003-05:00

This documentary video is a short, but comprehensive introduction to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Please take a moment to hear from authors, activists, academics, and other Congolese leaders.

The 22nd Annual Service-Learning Conference in Atlanta

2011-04-05T14:55:00.003-05:00

This week marks the twenty-second annual conference for service-learning (NSLC) hosted by the National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC). NYLC has been a key partner in the development of Service-Learning at the Bilingual Christian University of Congo (UCBC). Founder, Dr. Jim Kielsmeier, has supported service-learning at UCBC from the very beginning. He travelled to DR Congo last year to tri-host (with Paul Tshihamba, UCBC and NYLC board member; and myself, the UCBC Service-Learning Coordinator) a 2-day workshop for UCBC staff and faculty. This year, Dr. Kielsmeier invited UCBC to share their expertise in service-learning at the conference.

Academic Dean, Honore Bunduki and Congo Initiative Board member, Mary Henton arrived today in Atlanta. Tomorrow the conference begins. The NSLC features speakers, workshop sessions, discussions, and service-events with a national and international focus. Highly noteworthy keynote speakers for the conference are world-renowned Greg Mortenson, author of "Three Cups of Tea" and founder of Central Asia Institute, Pennies for Peace and Dorthy Cotton, Education Director for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and close advisor to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The conference will also host the 5th Annual Service-Learning World Forum: an event where service-learning leaders from around the world share ideas and happenings from their unique context. The exchange seeks to strengthen and enrich service-learning as practitioners come together. Honore and Chelsie will be sharing about service-learning at UCBC at the session focused on service-learning in Africa. Among them will be service-learning leaders, Naiomi Tutu (South Africa) and Wookie Weah (Liberia).

UCBC is blessed to be connected with this important work in service-learning and all the champions for youth development amidst people at NYLC.

Christ Presbyterian Church begins Documentary Film Project about UCBC

2011-03-25T15:37:00.009-05:00

On March 8th, a team from Christ Presbyterian Church arrived in Beni to begin a video documentary project featuring the vision of UCBC. Team members Lexie Soldo, Katie Osciak, and Jeff Johnson were led by Paul Tshihamba. Lexi wowed everyone with her French proficiency, Katie held a Human Resources workshop with UCBC's Human Resources director, and Jeff worked with UCBC Communications students to shoot footage for the documentary. Steve Conrad and Kris Lindquist from the Upper Room accompanied the team to Beni. They researched business opportunities and shared their expertise in marketing and IT with students through workshops and short presentations. The whole team really worked hard to make the filming a success and students enjoyed getting to know team members.

Visit The Table at CPC's website to read more about Lexi Soldo's experience at UCBC. She said,

"As the week went on, we met numerous Congolese, heard their stories of trials and tribulations, and witnessed their profound optimism that has brought them to where they are today.
After spending much time with some of them, learning about their lives, goals, and aspirations, I realized that each person had one common denominator: happiness. Not once did I meet someone who was negative or upset about something. I never heard a complaint or worry. I didn't even see a frown. These people were happy. Happier than anyone I've ever met. So happy that my words will never do justice to the joy that I witnessed."

DRC Realities Service-Learning Projects

2011-02-14T08:51:00.008-06:00

Over the last two weeks our first year students have completed 11 Service-Learning projects in their DRC Realities course. The course academically orients students to the various implications of challenges to development in their community. They start to ask, 'What will it take for us to change these challenges into opportunities?' One of the tools for further investigation is service-learning. Students focused on three sectors: health, social education, and economics.

In the beginning students asked so many questions. "Is service-learning really important for us? What is the goal of service-learning? How does it impact our lives? Are you really sure students will serve the community?"

So what is service-learning? Service-learning is defined as a “course-based, credit-bearing educational experience in which students (a) participate in an organized service activity that

meets identified community needs, and (b) reflect on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of personal values and civic responsibility.[1]”

Over a period of a month, students spent time planning, evaluating, and designing their service-learning projects. The project activities varied: group presentations, skits, and networking for resources and funds to support community development initiatives. Visit the UCBC Service-Learning Blog to see examples of projects in each sector.

Student, Agenorwoth Acira Justin was a leader in the group for Economic development working with community partner, Efata Deaf School, located in Oicha.

What did you learn? In our society partner, I learned more about how to help and what to do when I wanted to make an impact in the community. Before this experience as a UCBC student, I had not thought about helping my community.

How did you feel about your interaction with Efata Deaf School? I felt bad when I

saw them and saw their problems with studying, living, etc. It must be difficult not being able to hear.

How did the people react to your service-learning project? Their reaction to our help was so good. We were able to raise $130 in less than one week to promote an income-generating project for them. They were happy and they gave us thanks. They said that not only NGOs can help people, but also anyone who wants to help and has a will is able to influence the community.

Student, Mathe Regis Henry's group went to Bungulu High School and performed a skit ab

out corruption in the school systems. Afterwards their group posed questions and gave the students an opportunity to share their ideas about or experience with corruption.

What did you learn? Before this experience, I learned that from corruption there are bad results. For example: I knew someone who was using corruption to succeed in his high school studies by cheating, paying to get grades, and lying. When he arrived in 6^th form he could not pass because he was not able to do the work by himself. Every year he paid to get his grades. Now, he is receiving problems, because he is unable to think for himself. He destroyed himself. This inspired me to do this project, because I have experienced corruption first hand. Our skit talked about a school in which they were preparing exams. Those students who were not learning or studying and depending only on corruption were not able to succeed on the test. The head master caught them and they were chased away from the school. I learned that corruption can’t make a person succeed. It only makes him lazy.

How did you feel about doing the skit for high school students? I felt that they received more education about corruption and it helped them to better understand the problems that exist. Many people use corruption because of ignorance. Informing them was very important.

How did the students react after the presentation? They reacted by realizing that corruption cannot give you value. You demoralize yourself. I hope these students will want to change and want to learn through their own work.

These are just two examples of students experience with service-learning. Students like Justin and Henry are not only learning about critical issues in their country, but are taking steps to influence and develop their communities. In the words of Nathan Mboligihe, Service-Learning Community Partnerships Intern, "Service-learning has helped us put into practice what we have been learning. We are seeing people changing and receiving knowledge that they didn’t have. We discover as students, that people in the society can do something for themselves...When I watch students during these projects I feel happy and encouraged. I can feel something in me..We still have a lot to accomplish...this is just the beginning."

[1] Bringle, R.G. & Hatcher, J.A. (1995). A service-learning curriculum for faculty. Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning, 2, 112-122.

Quality of Education

2011-02-10T05:38:00.005-06:00

This past month, Academic Dean Honore Bunduki, traveled to Kinshasa, the capital of DR Congo to meet with the Minister of Education. We are on the cutting edge of education in Congo employing the License, Masters, Doctorate (LMD) system and English language learning. We are among 10 universities in the country to implement LMD.
The minister would like all schools in Congo to become bilingual in the next 10 years. We are one of the first so they are asking us for the blueprint. Honore said, "Everyone in Kinshasa is impressed with our English program."
Meeting with the Catholic University of Kinshasa was encouraging for Honore. He said that Mama Yenga, the Director of Private Universities in the Ministry of Education, posed the question, "What is quality? Why might you find a foreigner refusing to drink water bottled in Congo? Two reasons: trust and quality. These are the challenges we face in legitimizing education in Congo." Mama Yenga said that they are employing the LMD system to fight against this suspicion. There are higher standards for administrators, professors, and assistant professors. In addition to strict qualifications, each staff member is given a grade at the end of the year. This grade can lead to termination after 2 years. Furthermore, specifications for buildings, resources, land titles, classrooms and more.

Mama Yenga also encouraged us to start publishing research. As we grow we would like to incorporate this into our university culture. If we take this seriously we will be able to publish a journal that would be recognized in North Kivu by the Ministry of Education.

Darkest Africa

2011-02-04T08:30:00.004-06:00

My friends, Rebecca and her husband Jeff, have given much of their lives to supporting the development of Congolese led organizations. This year they are raising funds to come and teach at UCBC. We would love to have them join our staff. (Pray for the success of their efforts and/or donate.) Furthermore, read the compelling essay featured on their website, CongoStory. It denounces the paternalistic and degrading attitudes that surrounds so much work in Africa. My heart pangs with the truth of the words therein. Please read!

Let's rethink images and stereotypes like this...

"While we don't, as individuals, choose the system that rewards people viciously pursuing profit at the expense of human lives, we CAN, as individuals, choose to empower people in the Congo who are committed to doing good for others, and who are positioned to break cycles of violence and corruption, and to change the course of things by creating good community leadership and good government." -R. Cech

English at Bungulu High School-Service-Learning

2011-01-19T07:17:00.006-06:00

This week, our UCBC students in the Basic English class conducted their Service-Learning project at Bungulu ("boon-goo-loo") High School. Under the direction of teacher, Maka Bolulguhi, they decided to teach pupils at Bungulu about food!

Students were separated into groups to prepare an English lesson about food. So they planned, purchased various food for teaching examples, and mustered up some courage. I am so proud of these students because they conducted a project by teaching others despite the fact that they themselves have just started learning English! Often my English students in the most advanced level tell me they don't know enough to merit teaching. Yet these students were bold. The pupils at Bungulu loved the lessons and started thinking about the importance of learning English. The administration appreciated the involvement so much that they invited us to come back anytime we'd like.

Service-Learning Blog and Interns

2010-12-25T12:44:00.005-06:00

In December the Service-Learning Program added 5 interns to it's ranks and a blog.

The Service-Learning interns were chosen by application process. They were selected according to their service and leadership experience. Each intern has an area of expertise in which they will develop their leadership skills and hone their service expertise. These areas are: women's development, communications and multimedia, food security and innovation, and community partnership development.

The blog will feature regular updates about Service-Learning activities. Stay in touch by visiting the blog at UCBC Service-Learning.

(Pictures: Zawadi and Chelsie, Francine with women from Goats of Grace project, Jimmy extends a gester of friendship to fellow students at UCBC)

Service-Learning Interns Workshop: Planning for Community Projects

2010-11-16T22:34:00.000-06:00

Each year at UCBC, student interns play a vital role in the collaborative planning of service-learning projects. This month Zawadi Vihumbira, Amos Kambale, Nathan Mboligihe, Jimmy Tsongo, and Francine Nabintu worked with volunteers Meredith Knuckles and Sarah Gaither to plan projects for the upcoming year.

At UCBC classes begin!

2010-11-08T00:41:00.015-06:00

This past week was our first week of class. It is so fun to see students return from their break period. Many of them traveled back to their hometowns to visit family and friends. Some of them held internships in cities all around the region.

Reconnecting with colleages has been great. We have big visions and plans for this academic year. The last few weeks have been filled with hugs, smiles, and celebration.

Pictured on the right are: our beautiful Congolese sky, students dancing and singing a worship song to celebrate the begining of the academic year, students in a communications course, and students in English class with slogan "Being transformed to transform...".

UGANDA: Easing back into African Life

2010-10-14T07:50:00.005-05:00

This past week I was in Uganda anxiously awaiting the arrival of my packages. Before leaving the states I was cramming things into my suitcase and realized that all my books and teaching materials were going to be very heavy. Since Congo doesn't even have a mail service I had never thought of trying to mail myself something. So my grandma and I jumped on the computer and started researching fees to send it to Uganda where my friends, the Kawede family, live. So I rushed to the post office to send them out 3 days before I left for Congo in hopes that they would meet me in Uganda. Yeah...didn't work quite like that.
I arrived in Uganda to be greeted by my African sisters: Naomie, Lydia, and Ester (and a little brother named Sammy). They are the daughters of Muhindo and Lillian Kawede, directors of a Bible College in Kampala. Their college focuses on training untrained pastors in biblical thinking, and ministry and counseling skills. The family continually welcomes me into their home and family as I pass through Kampala during my travels. I've developed a close relationship with their oldest daughter, Naomie. She is truly a fantastic friend. She is generous, open, kind, a very hard worker, good sister, dependable, and thoughtful. Together we pray and share our hopes and dreams. We stay up late into the night giggling and talking about guys! And she introduces me to popular American TV shows like, One Tree Hill. We love combing the second-hand market for cute clothes (This week we purchased 10 shirts for under 10$) being the responsible ones when we go out dancing with her sisters. One evening the family asked me to make them an American meal...so I decided to make Spaghetti and Meatballs (from scratch, there's no Prego sauce in Uganda). They loved it! I even showed Papa Kawede how to use the spoon to wind-up the spaghetti noodles using a spoon.
The Kawede family loves God so much and have given their lives to training pastors from small congregations who would not otherwise have an opportunity for solid biblical teaching. Their school has about 60 students this year from all around the region (Burundi, Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda). Many of them currently pastor in congregations. Papa Kawede asked me to come and share during their chapel service. I spoke about my work in Congo at UCBC with Service Learning, shared my testimony of Jesus work in my life, and gave a lesson on Psalms 126. I used a visual aide in the lesson, adapted from Beth Moore's study, Psalms of Ascent. So often preaching in this region consists of a pastor yelling, reiterating a point to death, and concludes with an alter call. My lesson featured none of that. It was an interactive lesson using the visual aid to illustrate the main points. I was so moved by the opportunity to share with these pastors during our worship time I had to really focus on not crying. I felt so blessed because these men and women will go on to impact so many people through their ministry. I felt God's love for them as we studied the Bible together.
Then over the course of the week we checked for my packages, but discovered that they may take another 10 business days! I couldn't wait that long, so I proceeded to Beni and entrusted my package delivery to Naomie. She'll come to visit; I'll get more time with her and be able to work in the meantime!

Service-Learning Update and English Language Learners Teach English in the Community

2010-10-12T03:23:00.009-05:00

This past spring semester our Advanced English students went into the community to learn about teaching methodologies and engage in service. You may be asking: So what is service-learning anyway? Service-learning is best described as:
• A teaching method that helps students connect their own individual learning to a humble activism that seeks to serve others.
• A philosophy of learning and knowledge acquisition that gives dignity to the student as a creative partner in the process of learning.
• A community development model that bridges the often separated worlds of academia and the challenges of everyday life, such as housing, hunger and sickness.

During this past 2009-10 academic year, UCBC students of English served as teachers and teachers' assistants of English in the community of Beni. Over the course of 10 weeks students worked in the classroom twice each week, prepared lesson plans, and assisted with student evaluations. Throughout the project students reflected on teaching methodology, student interaction, and theological and philosophical approaches to service.

Engaging our students at UCBC in Community Education opportunities was an electric experience! Why?
• Students reflected extensively and actively on how they learned English themselves. Then they made active decisions regarding teaching style in relation to their own methods of learning.
• Students valued their own teachers and the challenges teachers face: envoking empathy.
• Students felt much more committed to the long-term success of their students and wanted to ensure future learning opportunities for them.
• Students took on responsibility for one another’s attendance and teaching performance by working in pairs and groups.
• Students developed curriculum tailored to the needs of their students.

This project is just one example of ways that the Service-Learning Program is changing the way UCBC approaches education and leadership development. Other projects from the previous year included: Fish Farming for Economic Development, UCBC Youth Club (YWAM) for Vulnerable Children, and Entrepreneurship for Empowering Women. Be on the look out for new Service-Learning projects this academic year!

The U.N. Report on War Crimes in Congo, by Nicholas Kristoff

2010-09-01T17:01:00.004-05:00

A confidential U.N. report by a mapping team on atrocities in Congo between 1993 and 2003 has been leaked and implicates Rwanda in stunning levels of brutality aimed at Hutus. It raises the possibility that Rwanda wasn’t just the victim of genocide (mostly against Rwandan Tutsis) but also a perpetrator (mostly against Rwandan Hutus who fled to Congo).

I’ve been given a copy of the 545-page report by somebody who wants it to get more attention in English. The French version came out first, quoted in Le Monde, and bits of the English version have been coming out here and there. Here’s the Christian Science Monitor take. Rwanda has reacted with fury, calling the report “malicious, offensive and ridiculous.” It has also reportedly threatened to retaliate by pulling its peacekeepers from Sudan.
I traveled in eastern Congo during 1997 and saw truckloads of Hutu men being rounded up, apparently for execution. One commander, apparently a Rwandan, was busy organizing such a campaign east of Kisangani and detained me when I came across his soldiers, who acknowledged that they were killing Hutus. (The soldiers noted, correctly, that many of the men they were killing had blood on their hands not only in Rwanda but also in Congo.) Likewise, other reporters have written about the mass graves and killings from that period. But the report goes far beyond anything I saw or was aware of. Most striking, the report suggests that the brutality unfolded there was systematically aimed at Hutus, including women and children. An excerpt:

31. The scale of the crimes and the large number of victims, probably several tens of thousands, all nationalities combined, are illustrated by the numerous incidents listed in the report (104 in all). The extensive use of edged weapons (primarily hammers) and the systematic massacres of survivors after the camps had been taken show that the numerous deaths cannot be attributed to the hazards of war or seen as equating to collateral damage. The majority of the victims were children, women, elderly people and the sick, who were often undernourished and posed no threat to the attacking forces. Numerous serious attacks on the physical or mental integrity of members of the group were also committed, with a very high number of Hutus shot, raped, burnt or beaten. The systematic, methodological and premeditated nature of the attacks listed against the Hutus is also marked: these attacks took place in each location where refugees had been screened by the AFDL/APR over a vast area of the country. The pursuit lasted for months, and on occasion, the humanitarian assistance intended for them was deliberately blocked, particularly in the Orientale province, thus depriving them of resources essential to their survival. Thus the systematic and widespread attacks described in this report reveal a number of damning elements that, if proven before a competent court, could be classified as crimes of genocide.

32. It should be noted, however, that certain elements could cause a court to hesitate to decide on the existence of a genocidal plan, such as the fact that as of 15 November 1996, several tens of thousands of Rwandan Hutu refugees, many of whom had survived previous attacks, were repatriated to Rwanda with the help of the AFDL/APR authorities and that hundreds of thousands of Rwandan Hutu refugees were able to return to Rwanda with the consent of the Rwandan authorities. Whilst in general the killings did not spare women and children, it should be noted that in some places, particularly at the beginning of the first war in 1996, Hutu women and children were in fact separated from the men, and only the men were subsequently killed.

The report goes along on that vein, describing specific examples that are devastating to read. It describes Congolese civilians packed into rail cars that became “coffins on rails,” with air supply cut off or petrol bombs thrown in. It also describes the role of conflict minerals in sustaining the warfare and chaos in eastern Congo — an issue that the Enough Project in particular has focused on.
I’m still absorbing the report, and it’s worth emphasizing that it’s a draft rather than a final version. And the truth in Congo is always hazy, so this mustn’t be taken as gospel. My main hope is that the report will get more attention to the humanitarian disaster of eastern Congo. One lesson I’ve learned over the years is that it’s very difficult to solve a humanitarian problem unless it is in the spotlight, and Congo’s problem has been that it rarely gets much global attention. No country has suffered so many millions of deaths and received so few column inches of coverage. There are signs that that may be changing, and maybe this report will be part of the process.

War-Making or Peace-Making

2010-09-01T16:19:00.006-05:00

Recently in Congo there has been more violence and instability. I feel frustrated. Frustrated that I don't know more about what's going on. Frustrated that I don't even know where the 200 rapes took place in relation to where I live. Frustrated that the UN doesn't help stop rapes from occuring. Frustrated that things haven't changed and I want to say that most of all I'm frustrated that I can't CHANGE IT! But who am I to think that despite millions of dollars in aid and relief, professionals in all academic disciplines applying their expertise, and the cries and prayers of hundreds of thousands of Congolese that really it's little old me that could fix it.

It's so American of me to search for the "5 Best Kept Secrets to Wining the War and Restoring Harmony Among Economic Injustice" or "Quick Fixes for all Your Gender-Based Violence Troubles". I just wish it were easier. I just wish it would end.

Maybe when God said there would be 'hell on earth' before the Messiah returns he wasn't kidding. If I truely believed it, would I be so surprised when I hear about another rape in Congo. What about the silent domestic violence next door? I am so frustrated when I hear about injustice... and then I hear the words from Jesus, during his sermon on the mount. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted...Blessed are the peace-makers, for they will be called children of God." Oh, how I want peace-makers, not war-makers in Congo.

War-makers cause pain, mourning, loss, destruction, perpetuate anger and hatred.
Peace-makers build up, bring healing, inspire harmony, bridge trust, perpetuate forgiveness and hope.

I pray today that you and I would be peace-makers. Don't look at the situation in the Congo and say, "Oh, poor them." Let's look into the injustice in our lives and in the world and ask God to give us characteristics of peace-makers and a committment to what perpetuates peace.

National Youth Leadership Training- What does it take to train young people to lead in light of justice, sustainability, and peace?

2010-08-17T14:03:00.011-05:00

This year I had the priviledge of being on Program Staff for the annual National Youth Leadership Training hosted by the National Youth Leadership Council, experts in Service Learning. I learned how to guide students and mentors in courageous conversations around race, inequality, and youth realities.

So what does it take to teach youth to lead in light of justice, sustainability, and peace? It takes:

-1 organization fully assured of young people's ability to change their world and their entire staff to "pitch in"

-a group of 25 talented, patient, and dedicated of adult leaders
-65 courageous and honest young people from around the nation ready to be campers!

-1,890 meals

-a creative and interactive curriculum about the Acheivement Gap

-2 school buses

-a few megaphones for crowd control

-morning exercise at 7:00am!

-30 canoes

-a training simulation called Morals and Ethics to show youth qualities of a true servant leader

-1 beautiful Boys and Girls Club Campsite in Mound, Minnesota

-a spontaneous and fun attitude!

-7 Service-Learning and Community Integration sites across Minnesota (Northfield, Edina, North and South Minneapolis, West and East St. Paul, Selby-Dale Neighborhood) for a day of Service Learning

-lots of energy to make up for lost sleep (6 staff tents set-up outside the lodge to help make every minute of sleep count)

-a heart open to listen to challenges youth face

Goats of Grace- Phase 4: Oitcha

2010-07-04T12:59:00.003-05:00

It was a cool and brezzy day, our windbreaker jackets clung to our body as the harsh wind whirled around the quiet town of Oitcha. Our first trip was a bit of a flounder. Pastor Kamethe had arrived the week previous to tell the women's solidarity group to get ready for their day of training. When we arrived we were greeted by the pastoral staff, but only about eight women had shown up. They brought us into a small waiting room and gave us sodas and local doughnuts. We waited an hour and a half to see if more women would arrive.
We talked with Pastor Kamethe about his HIV/AIDS programming efforts in the Beni area and found out that testing for HIV/AIDS was a huge problem in the community. Many people are afraid of the stigma that comes with being seen going to an AIDS Clinic or having friends and family know if you've been tested. Pastor Kamethe boldly asked me if I knew my status. Words fumbled around in my mouth as I tried to explain that I had never thought about or been presented with the opportunity to get tested. He said, "Ok, well I'll take you." And I thought, "Well, I guess...why not." I said, "Ok, well...sure, I'll get tested, let's make a plan." It has been such a blessing to work with Pastor Kamethe from PAVF (Program for the Assistance of Vulnerable Families) because he is a community leader and servant. His work is extensive: HIV/AIDS, to setting up a school for Orphans and children kicked out of school for lack of school fees, women's economic empowerment, farmer's rights, and more. Men like him give me hope and confidence for the future of Congo.
After a couple hours of waiting, we decided to go greet the women who had arrived. They were congregated around a smoky fire, where they had begun to boil water. The women recieved us with warm, shy smiles and each slightly bowing their heads as we exchanged gentle hand shakes. After short, polite introductions we agreed to return the following week for the training in order that more women would be able to participate in the training.

On February 27th Goats of Grace performed the training with a crowd of more than 50 women adorned in matching fabric Congolese dress with an arrary of colored silk headscarves. The training was held inside a large church with simple dirt floors and wooden benches. The vetrinarian taught in Swahili (a unifying language between tribes) and Pastor Kamethe would review each lesson in Kinande (the local tribal language) to ensure comprehension among all participants.

The vetrinarian asked the women, "What are the benefits of raising goats?" They rose their hands and contributed to the lesson. Here is what was shared in the lesson.

Benefits of Raising Goats
-meat
-milk
-leather
-manure for fertilizer
-"To get married" Goats are used for dowry: giving 5-10 goats to the bride's family is standard practice.
-"You can sell them to help pay your children's school fees." Selling one goat at $45 could pay school fees for an entire year for one child.
-"Having money in times of trouble" Banking is not avaible to the poor in Congo, but goats can function a bit like a savings account.
-"To pay doctor bills" Goat meat is always in demand, so one can sell a goat to get cash quickily in times of emergency.

Celebrating Independance...Congolese Independance?

2010-07-04T12:10:00.017-05:00

Today is the Forth of July, the day we celebrate American Independance. On the 3oth DR Congo celebrated it's 50th Anniversay of it's Independance from Belgium. They were victims of one of the most brutal colonial projects, but 50 years later the population is still brutalized.

Take a minute to look at this gallery of photos depicting faces and marking the experience of individuals after half a centry of independance.
Congo: 50 Years, 50 Faces

Here are a few things I am thankful for in association with my American Independance:

-I am free to openly criticize the governement without fearing for my life.

-The government provides basic municipal services: water, electricity, sewer, transportation, and schools.

-We have a military that is capable of protecting our resources and people.

-I can vote and am provided with non-partisan information to make my decision.

-If ever assulted I could go to the authorities and be defended in a court of law.

-The infrastructure is strong and stable.

"Practice Makes Perfect" for Service Learning Students in Applied Sciences

2010-06-09T05:33:00.005-05:00

A Report by Adelphine Angemito, Kujitolea Intern at UCBC, in the Service Learning Program

At UCBC things are getting better and better because students have started helping the community with what they are learning from class. This is shown by G2 applied science students who testified that they went to town, in Ndoni Quarter on March 2010 with their teacher Mr Mandiko, who taught them circuit analysis for electricity generators. As a strategy, they talked to people and gave each one of them the opportunity to talk, they asked them the way they managed all the problems that they are facing [with their electricity]. The students then helped repair these problems.

One of the community members said that he used to notice the electrical interruptions almost twice a week. What the students learned and practiced in the community reduced the electrical interruption according to the community member.

This made UCBC proud of its students.

Pictured is Christian Babinwe

CPC in Beni, at UCBC

2010-06-02T09:18:00.008-05:00

CPC came to Beni this year to show it's support for UCBC's mission to raise-up a new generation of Congolese leaders. CPC's team strategically investigated UCBC's technological needs and invested in staff development.

The team, under the leadership of Jim Kielsmyer, Paul Tsihamba, and CPC Congo Liaison, Chelsie Frank held a Service Learning Workshop for UCBC Staff. The staff learned about Service Learning best practices, the connection to Christian service values, and embarked upon their own Service Learning project. They conducted interviews to gather various oral history accounts about life in Beni. The staff was eager to learn from Kielsmyer's experience and expertise.

One night they held a special dinner event for all the class leaders (8 students) from the Applied Sciences department. They learned about these student's challenges and hopes. They asked about the challenges students in this field faced. The students shared their dreams about becoming Computer Engineers, Network Specialists, Computer Programers and more. However this was becoming increasingly challenging relying on generators, gas, and consistent funds for repairs and fuel. They continually emphasized, in our domain, "We need power." This quickly became the CPC's team slogan and the team then committed to support technological improvement at the University.

CPC was an encouragement to UCBC. I anticipate that there is much that will be learned and experienced through this partnership.

Accreditation for UCBC!!!

2010-05-05T05:12:00.002-05:00

Last week we got a call from Kinshasa (Congo's Capital) saying that we've received accreditation.

This is nothing short of a miracle given the usual: slow pace of bureaucracy, corruption, and lack of resources experienced by most universities in Congo. In this accreditation cycle we were one of eight Universities. The last cycle for this national classification and permit for operations, was in 2005. This year we were the only University in our province.

This is evidence that we have truly found favor with the Congolese Ministry of Education. As stated before, corruption and bureaucracy are usually huge barriers to accreditation. Our Academic Dean, Honore Bunduki, explained that usually institutions will contribute to the 'financing' of the Ministry of Education for years (essentially bribing them to give accreditation once the institution has complied with guidelines). He said the Ministry might ask, "Is that Institution present?" When evaluating Institutions that are up for accreditation.

Along with the accreditation, they have approved our plan to use the credit system (like in Anglo-saxon/American higher education institutions) and our emphasis on bilingualism in English and French. The Congolese Ministry of Education sees us as pioneers in English curriculum in Congo and would love to observe and support our development. The Minister of Education wants all schools in Congo to be Bilingual in the next ten years.

The fact that our University is a mere three years old, pioneering the credit system in all of Congo, located in a post-conflict setting, and the only Bilingual University in Congo is nothing short of a miracle. Our Administration, led by Dean Bunduki, worked so hard to prepare the documents and institutional supports to make this possible. We are so thankful to God for giving us favor and bringing laborers from all around the country and world to work together.

Injustice: Congo's Resources Fuel Destruction & How you can help stop it

2010-05-03T08:54:00.008-05:00

Some estimates say that Congo has an approximate 24 trillion $ of untapped mineral resources. Yet most people eat one meal a day, lack running water, suffer from preventable diseases, and can not find formal employment.

This estimate is only for mine-able resources, this doesn't account for the rich soil and favorable growing conditions for agricultural and livestock production, the incredible mass of timber, the natural wildlife beauty that could be a site for eco-tourism, the linguistic aptitude of the people, the untapped sewing and textile industry, and human resources of various underdeveloped skills and knowledge.

These realities fester in my heart and build a righteous discontent. I want so badly to see these resources used in a just, helpful, growing, and beneficial manner. Instead they are used to fuel hate, death, lies, and abuse. I want justice.

You can do something along with me. I am here working to develop strong leaders who will confront these issues and work for solutions. Yet in our country, we can lobby and support legislation that fights injustice. Amnesty International has a form of advocacy that can be completed in less than 5 minutes...go to their website and send a pre-fab letter to your representatives about mineral resources in DR Congo. Click here to take action.

From rebel-held Congo to beer can,

BBC News Report

By Thomas Fessy and Mark Doyle
BBC News, Mwenga

High in the mountains of South Kivu Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a Congolese miner caked in sweat and dust hacks at rock in search of precious minerals.
Some of his fellow miners in the region look for coltan, a mineral used in the manufacture of mobile phones. Others search for gold.

This man is using an iron stake and a simple shovel to dig for cassiterite, or raw tin.

Much of the final product from the efforts of cassiterite miners like him ends up as the microscopically-thin layer of tin which lines metal food and drink cans. Tin does not corrode so it is safe for food packaging. That is why there may be a tiny bit of DR Congo on your table or in your cupboard today.

Some of these tins may have started out in DR Congo

"We have to pay the rebels to work here," the digger we met said. "They force us to give them cash or the equivalent in minerals," he added, standing on the edge of his three-meter deep pit. The roof of the dangerous pit - more like a cave, really - was propped up by sawn tree trunks. But the hundreds of tonnes of rock they supported looked like they could collapse at any time.

Many of the mines like these in eastern DR Congo - in North and South Kivu provinces - are controlled by ethnic Hutu rebels from the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

Chinese-built road

This group first arrived in DR Congo - under other names - in 1994 after Hutu military commanders and militiamen had masterminded the genocide of Rwandan Tutsis and moderate Hutus. The FDLR still vows that it will return to power in Rwanda.

It says it doesn't want war and calls for a political dialogue with the Rwandan government (which the Tutsi-dominated elite in Kigali is most unlikely ever to agree to). The FDLR says its weapons are just an insurance policy. But for now, with the rebel group deeply implanted in the forests and mountains of DR Congo, those weapons are also used to extort taxes and minerals from local diggers and traders, reaping profits worth millions of dollars a year.

We drove from the provincial capital of South Kivu, Bukavu, towards the trading town of Mwenga. Once hardly accessible by car - and therefore controlled by a variety of armed groups the central authorities could not reach - the dirt road has in the past two years been considerably improved by a Chinese company on contract to the Congolese government. In remote villages, Congolese people have been living under the control of this foreign armed group for years.

Shifting alliances
After having made contact with the rebels by mobile phone, we met them after about an hour's trek through the bush from Mwenga. The man sent to answer our questions was Colonel Job Rukondo. He declined when we asked if we could take his photo.

It is the Congolese administration which is in charge of the mines in this region. We mainly live off farming. We raise cattle and trade at local markets --Colonel Rukondo, FDLR

Most of the armed men around him were in smart uniforms barely distinguishable from those worn by Congolese government forces. This should not come as a surprise - for many years the FDLR were the allies of Kinshasa and worked closely together with the Congolese government army fighting forces loyal to Kigali. In recent months, however, the relationship between the FDLR and the Congolese authorities has soured, at least in public, with the government of President Joseph Kabila saying the Rwandan rebels have now outstayed their welcome. President Kabila even recently allowed the Rwandan army into North Kivu to track and chase the Hutu rebels.

The Rwandan army officially returned home a few weeks ago, though some of its close allies remain in position. President Kabila had found it politically embarrassing to have a foreign army on Congolese soil - especially one which had, in the past, twice changed the government in Kinshasa. But clearly the Rwandan government forces did not complete all the tasks they had set for themselves, because here was a Rwandan rebel officer ready to speak to the BBC, and still on Congolese soil with his men.

Colonel Rukondo was dressed in civilian clothes when we met. His men, many shod in stout Wellington boots, touted automatic rifles and machine guns and formed a tight close protection perimeter around us.

We are like lambs facing wolves- --Congolese villager

Colonel Rukondo denied that his movement raised money through illegally taxing Congolese miners and traders. "We are not involved in mining activities at all," he said. "I don't think I know of any mines around here. "It is the Congolese administration which is in charge of the mines in this region. We mainly live off farming. We raise cattle and trade at local markets." We left Colonel Job and walked further up the mountain in search of a mine we had been told about earlier.

'Danger'
The slope was steep and at times the pathway turned into a rushing stream. The few Congolese villagers that we met on the way all affirmed that the Rwandan rebels controlled the mines in the area. They also said they were living in fear as the rebels often mistreated them.

The FDLR rebels continue to operate in eastern DR Congo
"We are like lambs facing wolves," one villager said. "We feel in danger from these rebels all the time. The international community should really take on the issue, and make them return to Rwanda." The Congolese army, supported logistically by the UN peacekeeping mission in Congo, has said it will soon carry out military operations in South Kivu similar to those conducted by the Rwandan army in North Kivu. But the Congolese army may not have the necessary equipment and training to mount such a mission.

Mineral trail
In Mwenga, local traders also told us that they had to pay the FDLR rebels to get in and out mine sites under their control. They also had to pay a tax for each bag of minerals that they removed from these sites.

They rape our women, and people are leaving the bush because of them, taking refuge in town ---Basila Milabyo, Congolese Business Federation

We followed the mineral trail from Mwenga to the city of Bukavu, where several large export companies have warehouses and offices. We asked local business leader Basila Milabyo if it was true, as traders on the ground had told us, that the export houses knew exactly where the minerals they were purchasing came from - and, by implication, of course, that some of them colluded with the illegal activities of the FDLR.

"Well, even in areas controlled by these rebels, the diggers are Congolese", Mr Milabio said. "We buy minerals from traders, so we can tell which market or company they're coming from - but we can't tell the exact mine". Later, Mr Milabio strayed a little from the official line. "Look", he said, in a rather tired and impatient way; "What can we do to chase them? We suffer from their presence as well. They rape our women, and people are leaving the bush because of them, taking refuge in town. How can we get the weapons to fight them? We have none." He refused to answer whether these sorts of abuses by the rebels might be stopped if the members of his business association stopped paying out money which might end up in the hands of the FDLR.

Mass killings
Many FDLR members insist that they were too young to have taken part in the genocide of 1994. The Rwandan government has lists of people in the FDLR that it says took part in the mass killings. The allegations against some of them may well be true.

But its also true that an entire new generation of boys and girls has been raised by the Rwandan rebels inside Congo - and some of them barely know their homeland at all, let alone took part in the wars there. Since arriving in Congo in 1994 the FDLR and its predecessor Hutu organisations have woven a web of complex relationships with their hosts. Some of those relationships are military. Some are related to businesses - legal as well as illegal. Some of the relationships are personal.

The international community has encouraged the Congolese government to demonise the FDLR and say the rebels should return to Rwanda or else...

In reality, even if Congo had the military capacity to enforce its will, untying the relationships the FDLR has developed in Congo over the past decade and a half may take many years.

National Service Learning Conference (NSLC)- San Jose, California

2010-04-27T03:24:00.004-05:00

At the National Service Learning Conference this March, I was blessed with the opportunity to give a workshop and sit on an Africa focused panel during the World Forum on Service Learning. My workshop focused on using community development frameworks for building group consensus on service-projects while showcasing the work we’ve done at the Christian Bilingual University of Congo (UCBC). It was truly a joy to be a part of the Africa Panel. I felt at home exchanging ideas around collectivist outlooks as links to service, Africanist solutions for development, community transformation through spiritual beliefs, and innovation in Africa. Naomi Tutu gave an address regarding the African philosophy of “Ubuntu”. Directly translated it means, “oneness”, but the philosophy espouses, “You are, because we are.” It is an attitude that recognizes community interdependence as essential for success, purpose and life.

Over 2,000 people attended the conference to develop, share, and collaborate around Service Learning. The conference motto was, “Inspire, Imagine, Innovate”. I truly was able to rub shoulders with people on the forefront of inspiration and innovation in Service Learning: students engaged in world-wide water access projects, civic service professionals working to bring Israeli-Palestinian communities, students traveling across-country to share indigenous family histories, teachers making connections between learning and spiritual growth, and so much more…! I left the conference feeling truly inspired.

* Pictured is me, Vice President of NYLC-Wookie Weah, and Program Coordinator- Maya Beecham

Democratic Progress in the wake of militant attacks?

2010-04-08T09:21:00.005-05:00

This past week, April 25 2010, the Mai Mai (a Congolese militia group), in association with the LRA (a Ugandan militia group), attacked the Congolese Army (FARDC) base outside of Beni. Only eight deaths were confirmed, but new recruits and their families had not been registered. So there is no way to identify the true death count. However, residents have speculated that over 100 women and children were slaughtered. Read more on this local news site. How can this happen with the UN present? How can this happen when President Kabilia is telling the world Congo is ready to take charge of it's own democratic elections in 2011?

Read this article from International Crisis Group on Democratic progress. Click here: ARTICLE

A reaction to the International Crisis Group report.

Equipping Women's Groups- Service Learning for Entrepreneurship

2010-03-30T10:27:00.007-05:00

In DR Congo life is full of harsh realities. Women face a plethora of challenges from systemic oppression, economic disenfranchisement, and access to education. UCBC is dedicated to a rigorous educational curriculum that connects students to their community.

Rector, Dr. David Kasali was asked, “How will course curriculum at UCBC impact our community?”

Dr. Kasali replied, “Every teaching, be it a course or class, usually, the intellectual concept has been removed from the context of the community, of the people who are learning. So, there is usually no connection. That’s what we want to correct. A teacher must bridge the theoretical knowledge with the experiential knowledge of a student’s. We are not an empty space; the students come with the context with what they know. Both teachers and students must wrestle with the question, ‘So what? How does that knowledge benefit my people, how has it worked in other places in the world and how does it work here?’ I think every course and teacher [at UCBC] can do that. Bring the knowledge down to earth. When you do that, the rest is history.”

UCBC's Entrepeneurship class engaged with local handicraft producers for their Service Learning Project. These producers were part of a small women's solidarity group in Beni, a city in North Kivu. The women were having trouble knowing how, where, when, and to whom to sell their products. Product backlog was becoming a concern. UCBC Entrepreneurship students were learning about business strategies and concepts. Throughout the course professor, Brandon Thomas would probe, "How does this apply to the economy here in Beni?" Students met with the women to learn about their business and life challenges. Then, together, these students and women worked together to develop marketing strategies, improve products, set prices, and learn the business overall. Students were sent out with various products: table runners, necklaces, children's dresses, newborn outfits, soap, and doilies. The students went into the community and sold the products, gathering information and consumer opinions. They sold over half the goods and came back with helpful suggestions like, "this design is old-fashioned", "the soap bar is too soft and small", and "a competitive price would be $3.00."

Professor Holmes said, "This project was useful for my course because I'm always trying to get them to think about the economy here in Beni. This is where they will become businessmen and women. We are looking to continue this project next semester."

Goats of Grace! Phase 3- Cantine

2010-03-13T05:49:00.008-06:00

This summer, the Upper Room Community came together to support vulnerable women in the Congo through a life-enhancing, life-supporting initiative. In the developing world, small animals, such as goats provide income, security, enhanced nutrition, and opportunity; hence our project: Goats of Grace. Through livestock education and the granting of goats to vulnerable women our community hopes to emanate the grace of our loving God in Congo.

Phase 3: February, 2010
Cantine, DR Congo

This trip Pastor Kamethe said to me, “You’ll see how far we travel into the bush today; were really going into the forest.” I thought I was pretty tough and was getting used to traveling by motorcycle...whoo! After two and a half hours I felt sore and exhausted. Yet when we arrived the women’s eager and friendly faces dispelled all my fatigue. They were lined up on benches around the perimeter of the room patiently waiting for the training to start. Their children crawled around on the cool, dusty cement floor in the center of the room.

The Cantine group is composed of women who are underage mothers, victims of sexual violence, those seeking to leave prostitution and those suffering from extreme poverty.

The Program for Assistance for Vulnerable Families (PAFV) , our partner organization, works with pastoral leaders from the Cantine community. These pastors were extremely grateful for our work with these vulnerable women. They communicated that in Cantine prostitution is prevalent. Some estimates suggest that Cantine has the same number of prostitutes as Beni (a city approximately quadruple the size).

These goats will provide these women with an additional source of income and savings. We will continue to follow their progress and provide encouragement as they care for their goats.

Stay tuned for Goats of Grace in Oitcha!

The March

2010-03-13T04:48:00.006-06:00

We gathered on the dusty road in the center of town. Hundreds of women filled the streets wearing bright colored African prints, heals, and a determination to bear the hot sun. Twenty women from UCBC marched the 2 kilometers from the roundpoint in the center of town to the mayor’s office in downtown Beni.

We marched chanting UCBC cheers and singing songs at the top of our lungs. We sang the song, “Yes Lord” in English more times than I have over the course of my life and we sang a few songs in Swahili. One song was called “Kudunda (to bounce)”. We would sing and dance; whenever I would ‘bounce’ the crowd would erupt in cheers and giggles. The other song was “Sitaolewa mpaka masomo ishe”. The translation of the lyrics is roughly this: “I won’t get married until my schooling is finished. Before, before: school. Behind, behind: in the home (marriage).”

After the march we went to Mama Irene’s house. She is a 38-year-old student with three children and a husband, who finds joy in catering. At her house, we cooked fried plantains, meat, rice, French fries, and cabbage salad with mayonnaise. More students came to join us after an hour. While we waited, we watched music videos and danced in the living room.

It was so much fun celebrating Women’s Day with my Congolese sisters!

Celebrating Women!!! Women's Day: le 8 Mars 2010

2010-03-08T00:58:00.007-06:00

March 8^th is International Women’s Day and Congo is celebrating. This weekend the United Nations Mission in Congo (MONUC) hosted an event at UCBC to celebrate women. On the eighth, we, the women of UCBC, will march across town as a group holding flags and singing along with hundreds of other women from around the city. I am so excited to partake in this ceremony.

In the front of the room a large vinyl poster reads: Journée Internationale de la Femme (International Women’s Day), the women of MONUC proclaim: equal rights, equal opportunities, and progress for all. There are around 40 female students settling into chairs in the main hall while 20 male students help carry chairs and tables. Staff, teachers and administrators mingle with the MONUC personnel and chat with students. After a few short addresses, the main speaker is welcomed to the podium. She is a short, hearty woman dressed in bright Congolese flag fabric. Her smile betrays a large gap in her front teeth. Her unassuming appearance hides her impressive history. Vice Mayor, Dr. Angel Nyiabilaro, begins her story.

She was born in a rural Congolese village in the YEAR. She immediately introduced her mother: a mother who fought to find enough money to pay the school fees of all her children, even Angel, a girl. She said, “My mom insisted that I attend school just like my brothers. I didn’t even know the value of school [at the time], but she insisted.” Other pupils would interrogate Angel, “What are you doing? You know the conclusion of your studies will be the kitchen.” This expression not only disclosed the common expectation that women’s primary position was that of a homemaker, but also that the opportunity for professional or vocational development was unrealistic. She said, “It meant that my purpose in life was to marry, have children, clean the house and cook food.”

After finishing secondary school I went to the Lycee Amani, a girls institute in Goma, DRC. A nun at the school noticed her exceptional intelligence and took her under her wing helping her with food and clothes. After six years she finished her degree in Biochemistry and then sat for a national placement exam for doctoral studies. She scored 2^nd in the nation. This brought a new dilemma: would she return to help her aging mother who sacrificed so much for her success or would she continue her academic career? Slowly her family began to see how important her contribution was to the larger society.

Next she attended the University of Lubumbashi, in the southern part of DRC. Yet, what would she study. She wanted to study engineering or pharmacy, but most women studied in the social sciences. She did not have the finances to study pharmacy and engineering was considered men’s domain. So she decided to study Veterinarian Medicine (Vet Med). In the entire University there were only 5 female students, and 80 males. She was the first woman in the Vet Med program and upon graduation the first female Veterinarian in the county. She graduated with distinction yet still fought with inequality and discrimination among her colleagues.

She decided to move back near her parents and started teaching in a nearby technical school. She said, “I only was teaching men. At the University level all the girls had been sent back home to cook. [And at that time], girls especially weren’t studying in the sciences.”

She paused to reflect, “I want to encourage all you girls to study hard and finish school with as big of heads as the men.” She went on to say, “You know every time you hear on the radio, ‘Today we are here with Dr. Nyirabilaro…’ It’s me.” The audience erupted in excitement to acknowledge their familiarity with her name. “I’ve worked all over the country, the the FAO.” She continued to encourage them, “We have the same worth, don’t have an inferiority complex, go on to do big things! I’m the Vice Mayor of Beni, a director of a society, office manager, Provincial cabinet director for Agriculture, and have done so many projects. You need to be determined in your objectives…You need to value who you are.” At the close of her speech the audience erupted in applause and accolades.

The Beni Director of MONUC closed with an acknowledgement, “This woman was so ahead of her generation. Imagine the years behind her. She worked so hard. She confronted so much ignorance and opposition from her village, fellow pupils, family members, leaders, and colleagues.”

In Nicholas Kistof and Sheryl WuDunn’s book, Half the Sky, they insist women’s education is essential for promoting development and human rights across the globe. “In 2007, nearly sixty-six million girls did not have access to education in communities across the world…as these girls grow up, they join the ranks of illiterate girls, increasing the gender gap between men and women…Girls who are denied access to education are more likely to be trapped in a cycle of poverty and disease, forced into child marriage and prostitution, become victims of disease, forced into child marriage and prostitution, become victims of sex trafficking, domestic violence, and so-called honor killings.” Education will be essential in the fight to equal rights, equal opportunities, and progress for all.

Pictures: Photo 1- Annie Kahindo, UCBC Communication Student, Photo 2- UCBC students listen to the speakers, Photo 3- Vice Mayor, Dr. Angel Nyirabilaro

Goats of Grace! Phase 2- Kabasha

2010-02-20T08:59:00.004-06:00

This summer, the Upper Room Community came together to support vulnerable women in the Congo through a life-enhancing, life-supporting initiative. In the developing world, small animals, such as goats provide income, security, enhanced nutrition, and op-portunity; hence our project: Goats of Grace. Through livestock education and the granting of goats to vulner-able women our community hopes to emanate the grace of our loving God in Congo.

Phase 2: January 23, 2010 Kabasha, DR Congo

Pastor Kamethe (PAFV’s Director), Juslain and Pamphile (the two veterinarians), and I met at the gas station in Beni. We filled the motorcycles and “ponied up” two by two for our journey. Even though the sun was shining, we covered every inch of our bodies. Under my helmet I put up the hood on my jacket and wrapped a pashmina around my neck to keep out the dust. The road was bumpy and long. After an hour and a half we arrived in Kabasha at the top of a hill with a simple brick church, built by the congregants themselves, surrounded by dirt and grass huts.

Slowly male church leaders dressed in their Sunday best filed out to greet us with warm smiles. Children crept out of hiding to examine the visitors who came to interrupt the quiet of their serene village. Then a few women in bright fabrics and silk head scarves drew near to welcome us. Then one of the men went to go beat the drum (a traditional Nande custom for gather-ing people) and call the other training participants. The seminar began with a prayer, songs of praise and a message about the Samaritan woman in the book of John emphasizing the working of God in her life. Pastor Kamethe explained how the work of God in this woman’s life didn’t end with her blessing, but rather it went out to bless and bring faith to her whole community.

Ninety-three people from the Kabasha community came to Upper Room’s goat training seminar for vulnerable women. In Kabasha some men came to support their wives and learn how to build small stables for housing goats. Some goat owners present at the seminar were surprised when they learned that it was essential to give water to your goat to keep her healthy. There is a definite need for training, literacy, and assistance for vulnerable families in Kabasha. This week ten members of the Kabasha women’s solidarity group, Wamama wa AFPAF, will receive their goats. Until those goats each give birth to a kid they belong to the group. After a woman gifts her goat to another member of the group the goat becomes her possession. The seminar participants were serious about responsibility of raising goats. They saw their task as essential for the success of their families and the development of their community.

Stay tuned for more updates as next week we travel to Cantine!

Goats of Grace!

2010-01-20T08:07:00.009-06:00

January 16, 2010, Beni, DR Congo

We all met at the church at 8:00am and walked a mile to the training site. When we arrived we found some women arrived early to prepare the greens and rice for the afternoon meal. The women were all under the impression that they were attending a free seminar on Ufugo ya Mbuzi (raising goats). Among the 55 attendees was a local government representative from the Social Affairs department sent to learn from our seminar.

The pastor started with songs of praise and a message about the widow, Dorcas, who was known for her generosity and kindness to the poor (Acts 9). Then one of the women prayed that we would all follow her example.

The training seminar featured all aspects of goat husbandry (how to raise goats): goat characteristics, profit/benefits of goats, building a home and paddock for your goat, diet, feeding, breeding, sickness and disease, and caring for your goat’s overall health.

The trainers taught about simple gardening techniques and composting as well. After the training, we announced that women would be granted goats. The women were surprised and a bit confused. I don't think the reality set in until we walked outside and they were handed their goat. The women smiled and laughed amongst themselves as I asked them to pose for their picture.

Kukaribisha Bageni and "Girl" Friends

2010-01-04T02:09:00.006-06:00

I love my friendships with the Congolese women. There is nothing better than arriving at an event or place and experiencing the warm greeting of a friend, especially my 'girl' friends. You approach a warm smile and lots of physical affection: holding your hand, pulling you close, and quite frequently a kiss on the cheek. A friend will cry out with a common Swahili phrase that loosely translates, "Many days! You were lost? I didn't see you! Where were you hiding?" All these phrases express that the person was missing you and felt slightly discouraged by your absence. Mind you, even if they saw you yesterday they will insist they haven't seen you in ages! (At first these phrases felt accusatory! In the US if someone at your place of employment says, "I didn't see you yesterday or for the past several days...and it seems like you've were lost."...thats TROUBLE. It's a severe productivity and performance infraction. However, these days, I've learned to ignore the negative reflex and recognize the love and warmth embedded in these expressions.) After this short exchange, the friend will take your hand and you will walk together catching up on recent events. I always feel enveloped in affection and care. It's something that I find so beautiful about this community.

Congolese culture places a high value on hospitality so people love receiving visitors. However, in contrast to our culture, one does not need to inform the host prior to arrival or worry about the time. So, it's common for someone to arrive unannounced or two hours late. This is can be disorienting and problematic at times. Either I am scrambling to make myself presentable and get the tea ready or I struggle to occupy myself with reading or chores while waiting for them to arrive. But for Congolese,"kukaribisha/kupokea bageni" welcoming/receiving visitors is an honor and an opportunity to show respect and love no matter the time or place. Often when I come to the home of a friend or even acquaintance, they will prepare food, we will eat together, and at the end of the meal we will chat over tea. It is a time for conversation, solidarity, encouragement, and relaxation.

This past week, I went to my friend, Sarafina's house to meet her family and share a meal. I had so much fun being with her and chatting with her family. Knowing how much it meant for her to receive me as a guest increased my joy. When I returned home I recognized that I was speaking Swahili the entire evening where we had covered topics such as politics, education, family and marriage among different cultures, and professional aspirations! What a blessing to be able to communicate freely.

Often our house (where the volunteer staff from UCBC lives) we invite groups of students or UCBC staff over for dinner. This helps us honor them as friends and colleagues, and get to know each other outside of the University setting. It breaks down barriers of status, race, culture, age, and gender. Louise is a student leader in the choir and para-church ministries of UCBC, Bethany is the Volunteer Coordinator and an Administrative Assistant.

Louise and Bethany

Chelsie and Sarafina

“Unto us a child is born”= “a baby is here intended for us” -Isaiah 9:6

2009-12-17T06:26:00.001-06:00

Such a common phrase during this holiday season, but what a strange thing to say, “unto us a child is born”. To remark that a baby would be meant for us. As an English teacher, I am always asking my students, “What is a synonym for that word?” Synonyms for the preposition ‘for’ are: on behalf of, in favor of, and in support of.

Additionally, who is ‘us’ and what might a baby be ‘intended for’ immediately upon birth?

This month babies are on my mind. My sister, Megan, and her husband, Mark are pregnant with their first baby. And just yesterday, my step-brother, Mike, and his wife Crystal, had their first baby. (So, for the first time, I’m an aunt!) To think, that either of these tiny babies would be purposed for us: those who have superseded it, is ridiculous. We are older, stronger, and more mature in every aspect of life. A baby is helpless and completely dependent. Yet, it was pronounced that this particular baby is purposed for us, humanity, at at the time it's elder, superior.

Yet, who are we? Are we, the elders, really superior? We are the tainted and needy. We are the liars. We ignore injustice. We cheat on our spouses. We steal music. We act with anger and hatred towards our siblings. We refuse to forgive unless they move first. We act like animals craving self-satisfaction in entertainment, sex, and food. We make rubrics in our mind to rank and compare our moral superiority. We fake our happiness and isolate ourselves from relational intimacy while were crying inside for meaning and connectedness. We who are grown have so much to learn.

The bible says that approximately 30 years later that baby taught a crowd of people about God’s heart, proclaiming, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall see God.” -Matthew 5: 3,5,8

With tears coming to my eyes I must share the richness of God. His loving purposes are as vast as the depths of the ocean. You see Jesus announced, “Favored by God are those homeless people who bring nothing valuable to the table. Sacred are the dirty children in the slums of Goma with ringworm and typhoid. Sanctified are those Congolese soldiers who have committed rape and murder. Forgiven is the adulterous American Fortune 500 CEO. Intended for heaven are those ‘Christmas and Easter Christians’ who lack spiritual wisdom, good theology, and a clean mouth. Hallowed are all you who are ignorant of your pride and apathy.” Jesus came for us: those of us in need. Not the moral people who have it all figured out. Not the people who can make it on their own or have already ‘cleaned up their act.’ He came to support us, to advocate for us. (Matthew 9:12)

My Congolese brothers and sisters see God. Today in the office, one of my students was making copies for his physics class. I asked him what it was about. He showed me a diagram of the human eye and began to explain its ability to receive light and interpret images. He said, ‘You know there is so much to learn about this, but there are still so many mysteries.” His face lit up with a handsome smile, “God is amazing. We can learn so much, but there is still so much left to discover. But one day we will know everything.’ You must know that yesterday this student lost in the student government election. In his past, he has experienced rejection by his family, isolation, and loneliness. He currently struggles to pay tuition, and yet is one of the brightest students I have met. Last week he came to me with a brilliant service-learning project idea for the harnessing of hydraulic power for electricity. I know my Congolese brother truly sees God.

And is it so strange that one would be born for many? Here in Congo, the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child” is easy to grasp. All community members contribute to the discipline and responsibility of raising children. And the success of this child means future provision and development for his community. Triumph is corporate; inclusion is prolific. Jesus says that if we have faith, even the size of the smallest seed (the mustard seed) we could move land masses the size of Mount Kilimanjaro. (Matthew 17:20) This Christmas look at those places in your life and heart where you need Jesus. He came on our behalf: to show us the love of God. I implore you to muster up a little faith and apply it to those areas where you are meek and poor in spirit. Ask Jesus to let you see God with eyes of faith, dependency, and adoration.

Sights for the Season

2009-12-17T03:37:00.009-06:00

friendship

strength

learning

beauty

Corruption

2009-11-25T08:08:00.005-06:00

I struggle as I try to explain corruption. My firsthand experience has been frustrating, but seems mild to the contextual realities experienced by our students and staff.

Dilapidated systems facilitate and promote corruption. It's undeniably a huge problem for the development and progress of any nation, but here in Congo it has been especially crippling. Not everyone is corrupt, but every institution has been contaminated by corruption. Let me just touch on the educational corruption that is common in Congo.

Our students have come from high schools and Universities where corruption seen simply as a right of passage. Professors and teachers often require that students pay for the ability to take a test, receive points in the class, or even to simply pass. This is above and beyond the expected tuition. Students explain that even if they legitimately perform well in the class, but don't pay the bribe, they won't pass the class. Girls are often coerced into performing sexual favors in exchange for passing grades. In addition to the appalling immediate atrocity of this reality, are the effects. Students see no incentive for studying thus lacking motivation. Pass their time in University in 'survival mode' just waiting for the next onslaught of unjust stipulations. Students watch their classmates literally purchase passing grades. And this continues after graduation with the bestowing of vocational positions based on 'who you know', 'how many goats (form of wealth) you bring to the manager's home', or 'wether or not you offer your body in return for the position'.

Here at UCBC we are fighting hard to tend the wounds of corruption and create anew a culture of academic excellence. Take a few minutes to read reflections from two of my Preparatory year English students.

Corruption in Congo

When I was still living in our villiage, I usually saw the prince of our village taking things freely. Every Saturday he entered our shop and took clothes, shoes…for nothing only because he is the son of the chief.

I shook my head to regret.

When I was in secondary school, I usually saw girls of my class getting marks freely, without working hard and boys who looked for the teaher and gave him money in order to succeed. Whereas that practice causes a shortage to the quality of the education of Congo.

I shook my head in regret.

When I was helping my brother who was working as a civil servant at TCB Customs, I saw lorries [trucks] from Mombasa [Tanzania] which pass by fraudulently because of corruption. Whereas that practice causes a shortage to the economy of Congo.

I shook my head in regret.

When I was at Lubumbashi University most students told me that to succeed there [one] needs to give money to professors. If you do not do that even if you’re intelligent, you’ll fail. That’s why I realized that corruption is everywhere in Congo.

I shook my head to regret.

Condemned to be a Girl

I’ve arrived at school

I have a big problem

I go somewhere thinking that I can have the solution

The answer of the question is:

You are unable yourself, come on my bed with me: if you want to be successful

I’m confused

I can’t change my nature because I am condemned to be a girl.

I am looking for a job

I get it easily

Problems come immediately

Someone tell[s] me that he has a solution:

To come [in] bed with him.

The job is all I have

I don’t know what to do because

I am condemned to be a girl

Oh! World! Why are you cruel with me?

You wont have the one thing that God give to me?

I am very confused

I can’t change that thing!

It is my nature because

I am condemned to be a girl

That is my destiny

Pray for us...

2009-11-03T02:53:00.006-06:00

As they begin the academic year, pray for our students:

-Pray for their spiritual growth. We are asking God to develop our students into strong, mature Christians. That they would love God with all their hearts and love others with humility and compassion. Pray that they would be willing to sacrifice fame and fortune for the benefit of others.

Pray for the leadership:

-Pray that we would be diligent workers and teachers. Pray for us to be united. Ask God to bless our creativity, intelligence, and endurance.

Pray for this country:

-Pray that the DRC would change. Pray that peace and justice would come. Ask God to help it's leaders steward wealth well. Ask God to fix the military and root out rebels. Ask God to restore women to a place of honor and respect. Pray that men would have jobs and children would be fed.

Hunting for Goats

2009-10-12T07:05:00.008-05:00

This past week I traveled to go 'hunting for goats' in a neighboring city. We are looking for goats to purchase for our project, "Goats of Grace".The Upper Room Community generously sponsored grants for women at Congo Initiative's Women's Center. The beneficiaries are vulnerable women from the Beni community. Here in Beni a goat is a valuable asset. This is what Susan MacMillian of the International Livestock Research Institute says about livestock as an asset,

Cattle, sheep, goats and other ruminant animals are life-enhancing, as well as life-supporting in poor countries. Animals feed people and soils. They generate incomes. They are the major capital asset of smallholder farmers. They reproduce themselves under even the harshest conditions. They are highly specialized eaters of grasses and similar vegetation that grow not only on range lands, which make up two-thirds of the earth's agricultural lands, but also on and near croplands. They convert these organic materials, which are indigestible by people, into human food of the highest quality. They are the nutrient (manure production) and financial (dairy income) crankhandles of smallholder systems, acting as catalysts that jack up the viability and health of those systems as a whole.

In short, livestock help improve the quality of life for people using agriculture as a primary or supplementary means of survival.

In my search for a herd of goats I traveled to Butembo, a city 54km south of here. We left on a Sunday morning at 6:00am and arrived at our first farm, a beautiful sprawling ranch with tall redwood and eucalyptus trees interspersed with pasture land. We climbed a winding, rain rutted road for thirty minutes to reach the top of the hill. A few wood shacks on stilts speckled the landscape. Inside held a clattering hooves and a chorus of baying goats. We were shown the largest goats in the herd, but they weren't the right breed. I made sure to sneak into the section partitioned for the smallest kids (baby goats) to crouch down and pet them. The shepherds chuckled at my fondness for them. So we kept on searching.

We pressed on to the town of Butembo.

To be continued!

Intensive English Courses

2009-10-08T09:48:00.007-05:00

For two weeks prior to the start of the academic year we are teaching Intensive English classes. I've been elected to teach our level 2 students (returning scholars) English Reading. I'm loving it! Many of you have asked me, "What does a typical day look like for you in Congo?" I always have had trouble answering that question because there isn't always a schedule and often something can take much longer than expected (ie. trip to the bank setting you back 2 hours). So one needs to be VERY flexible and patient! However, this teaching opportunity has given some structure to my days.

A typical day consists of the following:

6:15am Wake up.

6:30am Swahili teacher arrives at our house for group lesson

7:15am Get ready, eat breakfast, read bit of Bible

7:45am Rush out of house and hail a motorcycle taxi, negotiate for standard price in Swahili because they think I should pay more because I'm a Mzungu

7:58am Arrive (dusty and windblown) at UCBC (the University) greet teachers and students with handshakes and smiles

8:00am My first class starts (students saunter in until 8:20)

9:00am I, the teacher, move classrooms (because it would take the students 15 minutes)

9:00ish My second Class starts

10:15am Daily Chapel service with vibrant worship songs and preaching

11:ooish My teacher prep time

12:00ish Work on Service-Learning program, and "Goats of Grace" program (planning curriculum, email correspondence over the turtle speed internet, researching care and purchase of small animal livestock)

2:00pm Lunch (beans and potatos or cabbage and rice)

2:30pm Fight with projector, amplifier, computer, and pirated dvds for English Movie and Disscussion class

3:00pm Movie starts

4:45pm Discussion and Assignments for movie critique

5:15pm First UCBC bus leaves to bring students into town, all the staff email like mad until the second bus comes

5:45pm Pack in bus like sardines with UCBC students and staff

6:15pm Arrive at home

6:45pm Sun has set, we turn on the generator

7:00pm Eat dinner with roomies (other volunteer teachers and UCBC support staff from all over the States), pray, laugh, talk about the day, debate all things controversial (politics, theology, etc...)

8:30pm Relax, read, pull hot water off the stove and bucket bathe

10:30 Generator off, fall in bed

These days things are busy! But it's so fun. I feel blessed to be a part of this team of people working at UCBC.

Photo by: Christine

CPC Raises Funds for HEAL Africa at Hope Walks

2009-09-22T11:59:00.009-05:00

Christ Presbyterian Church is passionate about loving the poor and forgotten of the world. Over the last few years CPC and Hope Walks have nurtured a partnership with HEAL Africa in the eastern Congo, a part of the world that has been devastated by war, natural disasters, poverty, and AIDS. It is through these partnerships that we have been able to develop relationships with the orphans and vulnerable children of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This year in August, CPC raised $11,000 for HEAL Africa at it's annual church picnic and walk.

The event started with a worship service. We praised God for the faith of our friends in Congo and the opportunity to join his work at HEAL Africa. Mike Hotz and I gave the children's sermon...which brought me to tears everytime I rehearsed it. I was overjoyed because our kids made educational activities for the kids at the hospital in Goma. I KNOW the pediatric patients will be overjoyed! Also, for our kids in Minnesota to be praying for other kids across the globe just enlivens my spirit. God is so cool! Additionally, we had Congressman Eric Paulsen come and talk to the congregation about his experience at HEAL Africa last year. It's great to see our state representatives postured to learn and take action to affect suffering people in the Congo.I'm so thankful to be a part of this work!

Photos by Katy Mc Grath

My Minnesota

2009-09-11T12:19:00.015-05:00

Living in the Congo people always ask me, "Where are you from? And what's it like?"

I beam with pride as I think about my Minnesota. Over the last few years as I've met people from all around the states and world I've come to appreciate how Minnesota is different. I talk about the weather, culture and diversity, ecology, and even food (hotdish)! Here are some of the things I love about Minnesota:

1. Minneapolis! We have an urban area that is clean, full of green space, and appreciates the arts.

2. The lakes! I enjoy walking or rollerblading around any of the chain of lakes in the city, hanging out on a beach that's not so salty, and I LOVE jet-skiing.

4. My friends and family live here! I'm so blessed to have y'all in my life. I'm encouraged by your love and generosity towards me and others.

3. The people. We have such a diversity of cultures, ethnicities, political views, and belief systems. We've got Minnesota-nice, Minnesota good-byes (that take 30min if you're unfamiliar), the Protestant work ethic, and that Minnesota grandma 'I'll feed ya 'till' ya burst' hospitality.

5. Driving (on flat, well maintained roads) with the windows down and radio up on a warm summer night!

USA Training

2009-09-01T17:14:00.005-05:00

Many of you know I am currently in the States. I arrived in July and will leave in a few weeks. It's been a huge blessing to be near my family and friends. I've been working with Christ Presbyterian Church and the Upper Room to grow our partnership with HEAL Africa and Congo Initiative. We've raised $11,000 for HEAL Africa, 74.5 goats for grants to vulnerable women at the Women's Center at Congo Initiative, and a whole-lotta awareness around what's happening in DR Congo. (More goat pics to come...)

I've also been doing an internship with an organization called NYLC, the National Youth Leadership Council, they are experts in Service Learning. I've really enjoyed my time with their staff and training programs.

I was volunteer staff at a youth training camp with around 100 high school youth. During this camp I was awarded the Bernard Gill award. Bernard was a beloved leader, minister, father, and friend to many at NYLC. The award honors his memory and is given once a year to a staff member who emulates his character and love. I felt so humbled and encouraged.

Additionally I was able to attend the National Service Learning Conference in Philadelphia during the month of August. Service Learning practitioners from around the country gathered to share resources, experience, and expertise. I met great people and took a few seminar courses that will help me pioneer the Service Learning Program at UCBC.

I am so excited to encourage young leaders in the Congo to serve and love others the way Jesus does; I'm glad that I can be a part of a Congolese led movement to improve the lives of people in Central Africa.

I'm so blessed that this is my job!!! Praise God.

Pic- Me after receiving the Bernard Gill Award.

Building Futures

2009-08-13T17:04:00.016-05:00

Since it's inception in 2007, Congo Initiative's UCBC (Bilingual Christian University of Beni) is growing quickly!

Look at a few of my construction pictures.

Pic1- Construction team lifts blocks to build the university community center.

Pic2- UCBC staff and students welcome the director and building team to campus.

Pic3- A team of construction workers pose to show their strength.

Pic4- A young boy is fascinated by my office work.

the beauty of beni

2009-06-09T06:03:00.006-05:00

life in Beni is a little slower, we stop to greet everyone.

"Jambo," is the call. "Jambo sana," is the melodic reply.

life in Beni is filled with children shouting.

They shout, "Good Morning" (the only English phrase they know) even in the afternoon.

life in Beni is warmer.
At night the strong storms blow open the windows and it rains inside, in the morning the sun brings the mid-day heat. This rhythm makes the mosquitoes happy.

life in Beni is dusty.

Motos (motorcycle taxis) kick up dust and pass overloaded trucks. The wind carries grains of sand that powder your skin.

life in Beni is full of building.

The University is building a community center and more classrooms, in the volunteer house (Nyumba ya Amani) I am building friendships we are becoming a small family, we are building opportunities for education.

life in Beni requires faith.

The faith that God will help us change the country and the faith that God will keep us growing.

Moving to Beni, DRC

2009-05-31T10:37:00.007-05:00

Hamjambo (Hello Y'all)!
Tuesday I move to Beni, DRC for my new assignment. The transition has been hard. I've come to love so many people at HEAL Africa. I have many friends and colleagues I will miss terribly. I will especially miss the women at HEALing Arts. We spent so much time together, their beautiful hearts and laughs are precious to me.
For my next assignment I'll be in a new city, working with an organization called Congo Initiative (www.congoinitiative.org). Beni is on the northern tip of North Kivu (the province where I live now) approximately 250 kilometers north of Goma. I had the privilege of visiting them back in November while Goma was hostile territory due to rebel fighting. My colleague Cristina and I did financial planning and business forcasting workshops with Congo Initiative's Women's Outreach Center. We were inspired by the vision and growth of the organization and impressed with the quality of leadership.
One of Congo Initiatives greatest initiatives is UCBC, a Christian French/English Bilingual University. I was left thinking, "I really hope we can bring a group of people from the Upper Room (one of my two sending churches) to meet these students. They would be astounded to see their faith, pursuit of truth, and desire to change their country."
That may be a very near reality! I will be in Beni for the next month looking at that possibility and investigating a volunteer role they have asked me to fill. The University is in need of a Service Learning Program Coordinator. Service is a pillar of their tridactic approach to academics (Service, Work, and Classroom Curriculum). I would be helping bring the gap between classroom curriculum and service opportunities in the community. I would meet with community leaders, UCBC professors, Service Learning experts, and UCBC students to pioneer the program. This is very exciting and appealing to me. I am hoping that God will work everything out for me to take this position.
When I think about this transition it is useful to compare it to work in the medical field. At HEAL Africa we were often dealing with emergency, acute, dire needs. Our beneficiaries have desperate situations that require immediate attention. However, at Congo Initiative we are working at the preventative care level. Congo Initiative's people will impact long-term planning and transform society through their leadership and influence.

Hear Congo Initiative explain 'who they are':

Central Africa's political crisis has left a void of mature leaders in the DRC, left broken by years of oppression and conflicts. There is need first for restoration, then to bring about transformation, and finally work towards the multiplication of the transformation agents. In this vein, Congo Initiative (CI) through its Congolese partner entity the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC - the Christian Bilingual University of Congo) is developing progressive partnerships with churches and organizations, locally and overseas, for the implantation of training and service provision, for authentic discipleship education, and for a lasting reconciliation process between ethnicities as well as between conflicting regions based on the work of the cross of Jesus Christ.

Thus, whereas turmoil resulting from political and social unrest has left behind a body of Congolese lacking proper leadership, instruction, and spiritual nurture, CI-UCBC has brought a new alternative by providing solid education, holistic practices, Biblical leadership training, discipleship, and mentoring. DRC is faced with the monumental task of nation building, and CI-UCBC is assisting with efforts by mobilizing resources locally and abroad, which will significantly influence the rebuilding of the nation.

VISION: To train and develop strong, indigenous Christian leaders to transform their communities and their nation of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

MISSION: To model, nurture and shape an authentic redemptive community of Christ’s followers whose calling is to transform the society in the DRC.

Pray for God to continue to strengthen this powerful calling in the DRC and ask Him to prepare my heart to join them!

HEAL Africa Partner Organization, Christian Blind Mission (CBM) Working in Bukavu

2009-05-14T04:16:00.021-05:00

This past week I was sent on a photography assignment for one of HEAL Africa's partner organizations working in South Kivu. It was great to see a different sector of health care, province, and organizational approach. Christian Blind Mission is on the forfront of providing care for people with disabilities around the world. They support more than 1,000 projects in 113 countries. It is estimated that CBM reaches out to 20 million people worldwide. http://www.cbmuk.org.uk/

Their "Clinic ya Macho" (Eye Clinic) draws people from all over South Kivu for catarat surgery, eye exam, and optomotry services. Dr. Kadima is the boistrous, joyful head surgeon at the clinic. I met with the thankful recipients of his skills. Here are a few of their stories:

Helena M Rubanga, 72 yrs
Helena is a delightful woman with deep expression lines that convey wisdom and joy amidst her suffering. Her young granddaughter Nzigira Rubanga made the journey to Bukavu to provide constant care and companionship. Helena lived for 9 years with severe cataracts, until one day, her son had enough money to pay for the surgery. He made a living selling second-hand clothes. Each week he would put some money aside for his mother’s cataract surgery. He decided to take out a small loan from friends to cover the rest of the costs and today Helena has finished surgery on her right eye. In two days she will undergo surgery for the left eye.

Bukongo Family: Byamungu Bukongo, 7yrs
The Bukongo family lives in Bukavu. Their youngest son, Byamungu, was playing outside, climbing a tree when he fell and injured his eye. Byamungu lost his eye as a result of the fall, but his family received care and compassion from the staff at the CBM Clinic.

Ngorombe Asomani, 67 yrs
Ngorombe had cataract surgery at the CBM Bukavu Clinic. After surgery he exclaimed, “Ninaona sana!” (I see very well) and “Minafurahi kabisa!” (I am super happy).

US Congress Delegation Visits HEAL Africa

2009-04-17T02:20:00.012-05:00

Yesterday we had a visit from a Congressional delegation led by Representativ Adam Smith (WA). The group was comprised of Congress representatives Jim Cooper (TN), Gabrielle Giffords (AZ), David Scott (GA), and Erik Paulsen (MN). The delegation came to learn about HEAL Africa's work combating sexual violence and caring for it's victims. They toured the hospital and conducted an interview with a rape survivor. They also heard about HEAL Africa's advocacy work in conjunction with the American Bar Association to promote women's rights and prosecute offenders. At the end, they pledged their solidarity and support for HEAL Africa's work.

I was able to speak at length with one Congressman, Eric Paulsen from Minnesota. Paulsen was interested in understanding the larger social context of rape in Congo. After hearing from one survivor, he compassionately asked questions to try and understand the vast differences between women's lives in the West and women living in war-torn Congo.

I hope that their visit will bring more media attention and political will to end the violence in Congo.

He is on our side...

2009-04-13T03:57:00.013-05:00

These lyrics are from a Bethany Dillion song called, "You are on our side." It is my favorite song about Jesus. The lyrics are simple, and the melody is passionate. It shows Jesus' compassion, His indiscriminate love, the unlikely nature of His power, and where He finds joy. The song speaks to the needs of my soul for rescue, justice, and forgiveness. It reminds me how important it is to "do life" with those who are wounded, suffering, and in need.

The orphan clings to you hand, singing of how he was found
The widow rejoices, for her oppressor's silenced now
You sit at the table with the wounded and the poor
You laugh and share stories with the thief and whore
When you could just be silent and leave us here to die
Still you sent your son for us

You are on our side

The runaway falls at your feet, you are what he has searched for
The rich man is broken when he stands beneath a sky full of stars
You sit at the table with the wounded and the poor
You laugh and share stories with the theif and whore
When you could just be silent and leave us here to die,
Still you sent your son for us
You are on our side
Still you sent your son for us
You are on our side

Dusabe Ireni Bimenyimana

2009-04-08T04:36:00.007-05:00

Dusabe was 15 years old, returning from working the fields, when she was raped by the CNDP (rebel Nkunda’s forces) in Ma-sisi. Distraught after the violent rape, which involved the use of the soldier’s rifle, Dusabe found herself with a severe case of fistula. A beautiful young girl, her life was changed forever.
She has spent the last 6 years at HEAL Africa. She lived for a long time in the transit center at the hospital, receiving surgery after surgery. Finally, Grounds for Hope was built with support of Upper Room and Souls in Stride to support women suffering from long-term fistula. For the first time in years, Dusabe found herself in a comfortable and safe environment she could call home.
Dusabe is now 21 years old and cares for her 6 year old sister, Zinankunda.
At Grounds for Hope, they live in a community with other women who are fighting to rebuild their lives with dignity, despite their years of living with the emotional and physical pain from fistula. Dusabe learned to sew, read and write through HEALing Arts’ programs at Grounds for Hope.
Her smile is wide when she talks about her sewing skills, which she is excited to continue when she returns home with an income generation grant from HEALing Arts and Finn Church Aid.
Today, Dusabe finds herself healed after her sixth fistula surgery and is ready to begin a new life, which no doubt she will, with her engaging personality and happy disposition. She is healed emotionally and spiritually and hopes to marry and have children.

Ban Ki-Moon Visits HEAL Africa

2009-03-04T03:24:00.004-06:00

"Anapita raisi ya Congo, ya Amerika...iko mkubwa sana! kama raisi ya dunia!"

("...he's bigger than the president of Congo, he's bigger than the president of the United States of America...he's super important, like the president of the world!")

That's what we told the women at the transit center (women waiting for surgery to repair the hurt inflicted by violent sexual assult) when we heard that the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon was coming to visit HEAL Africa.

This Saturday he came to see our work at the hospital with women who were victims of sexual violence. He came to speak out against rape. He came to visit violent North Kivu for the first time. He came to listen to the story of a young women waiting for fistula surgery. He came to see women at HEALing Arts becoming strong, loving, skilled women of faith.

Praise God for the attention and advocacy his visit will bring to the conflict and plight of Congo! I was so proud when the women at HEALing Arts handed Ban Ki-Moon and his wife the skilled work of their hands as gifts. One of the young women bravely told the Congolese Minister of Foreign Affairs, "I was raped. I want you to stop what is happening in our country." Their strength and hope is amazing.

Check out these news articles to hear more about Ban Ki-Moon's visit to North Kivu, call for peace, and photos of him at the HEAL Africa Hospital in Goma:

http://www.france24.com/en/20090228-ban-ki-moon-urges-congo-seize-chance-peace

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090228/wl_africa_afp/drcongounrestun_20090228191049

Endearing aspects of Swahili...

2009-02-13T08:32:00.010-06:00

So, as many of you know, I've been studying Swahili for the last few months. I always liken learning a foreign language to being in a romantic relationship. There is an initial excitement, daily interaction, and commitment. Some days that you feel like you've come so far together, you are comfortable, and you are so glad this is a new part of your life. However there are other days full of misunderstanding, frustrations, and you just wish it wasn't this hard! Often you feel like giving up, but alas it is worth it.

Here are a few of Swahili's endearing qualities...
Greetings:
When greeting someone, it takes a long time because you want to know how they are doing, how their family is doing, and if they woke up feeling good. So you will ask, Ulilamuka? (oo-li-la-moo-kah, you woke up?), and Habari yako? (ha-bar-ee yah-koh, what's your news?), and Habari za jamaa? (ha-bar-ee zah jah-ma, what's the news of your family?). I love these things because it shows the hign value placed on community, family, and relationships.

Fun Words:
They use the same word for plane and bird.........ndege (nn-deh-gey).
The verb used to express the act of 'cuddling' sounds a little bit like baby talk.....kubembeleza (ku-bem-bell-eh-zah).
The verb, "to be confused" is confusing and hard to say....kuchanganikiwa (ku-chang-gan-ee-key-wa); say that ten times fast!

Names:
Upon having her first child she is refered to as "Mama 'insert child's name' " and this will continue for the rest of her life.
A child is often named to reflect the circumstances of their birth, ie. Machozi (tears), Neema (grace), Furaha (happiness), Muhindo (son born after women).

I hope you enjoy this little bit of Swahili!

HEALing Arts

2009-01-19T04:40:00.032-06:00

So many of you have asked, "So what is your job in Congo?" Well...one of the most important aspects of my work is supporting a program of HEAL Africa called, HEALing Arts. HEAL Africa sees the healing process as containing three parts: physical, spiritual, and socio-economic. HEALing Arts is one of HEAL Africa's amazing examples of God's ability to heal people despite horrific circumstances and seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Our mission is to equip women and vulnerable populations in the Democratic Republic of Congo with skills, opportunities, and education so they are economically capable to support themselves and their families. Through Healing Arts products we advocate for conscious consumerism and promote active awareness in the western world regarding the role and responsibility to combat extreme poverty and conflict in the Great Lakes region of Africa.

The income-generating activities at HEALing Arts include: sewing, weaving, jewerly-making, improved agricultural techniques, soap-making, and small enterprize cooking.

To find out more and purchase products visit our website at http://www.healingartscongo.com/

Questions? Contact me at cfrank@upperroomcommunity.org

Photos by Mo Sadjadpour

...looking for the the kingdom of heaven...

2008-12-24T09:23:00.006-06:00

Here is a small glimpse of life at HEAL Africa:
This weekend as I sat at HEAL Africa’s church service I was overcome with emotion. The congregation of patients, and staff sang joyful songs of praise in Swahili; even people with walkers and crutches danced uninhibited. Hands clapping, voices harmonizing, bright African patterned dresses swayed in rhythm. At the end of the service, the pastor called for those in need of healing to come to the front. All the women that stay in our transit centers waiting for fistulae repair traveled to the front and orthopedic patients slowly crutched forward. Maybe a dozen people remained seated (presumably healthy), but then the pastor welcomed forward anyone in need of work, practically the whole congregation was down front. I remained seated, watching and praying along with them. I thought to myself, “These people have so little and they trust God with so much of their lives…what faith they have.” Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3) I know theologians have written entire books about this section of scripture, but that day I saw the kingdom of heaven in their faces: eyes scrunched intense in prayer, arms raised, open hands eager to receive from God. After the time of prayer, most of the orthopedic patients crutched back to their seats, no job offers fell from the sky, and the fistula patients are still waiting for their turn on the operating table. But they left the alter trusting, hoping, and above all waiting for the kingdom.
Now let me fast forward to today. I am traveling home to Minneapolis for Christmas. I befriended two young women. They have their health, they are educated, and they have high paying jobs. Both found cultural significance in the holiday as a time to grow closer to family but felt that they do not have a strong need for God. They commented that faith was important for some people, but not them. My heart broke thinking of how much they are missing.

For those of us who feel our need, our poverty of spirit—the kingdom of heaven is ours! This Christmas I pray that you would feel your need and call upon Christ. May He lavishly reveal Himself and the kingdom to you.

FEEL your NEED.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Restoring Hope

2008-12-10T07:40:00.009-06:00

A friend and collegue of mine, Desiree Zwanck, wrote an extensive report based on interviews of refugees and residents around Goma. In one question interviewees were asked, "What kind of change would actually restore people's hope (in Eastern Congo)?"

Congolese in the East of the country are convinced that they are at the bottom level of everything, in every way – nationally, regionally, and internationally. They feel betrayed and abandoned by all. As their sole hope they claim God and the Churches.

When asked about change, most people have but one response: they need food. They want to live in a world where they can cultivate their fields and have a foundation for their existence. Second is the desire for new values and ideas, which can change people's behaviour and mentality. Some also wish for a functioning, well-trained army and police.

Pray with me: God, thank you for caring for and about all people. As people in the Congo feel abandoned, thank you that you see every tear, every sleepless night, every hungry belly, and every death. You say the last shall be first when your Kingdom comes to earth. I ask for a glimpse of your kingdom to come to this place. Thank you for the tireless faith you have given to the people of the Congo. Answer their prayers for daily bread. As peace talks between rebel army leaders and goverment officials ensue in Nairobi, bring peace. In Jesus name, Amen.

Minova Refugee Camp- Clean Water Mission

2008-11-18T05:35:00.004-06:00

Last week we travelled for two hours into the beautiful Congolese countryside to find Minova's refugee camp. A humanitarian aid organization invited us to tag along. As the road wound around the lush mountains, we could see the camp lying in the valley. Home to 1,800 of the area's internally displaced people.

Each home stood about 4 feet high, with a 3 ft x 4 ft area inside. Their frames were constructed with sticks. A few were covered with plastic tarps, but used large dry banana leaves to protect them from the elements. Hundreds of these temporary homes filled the valley.

Getting out of the truck we were greeted by people from the village and those on the road. They all made sure to tell us they were hungry. We explained that we were there to help prevent cholera and other diseases by making clean water. Many were astonished to hear the white girls speaking Swahili.

One of the aid organization leaders showed me how they test the 'turbidity' of the water. In the states, the drinking water must be at .5 or less. The World Health Organization says 1 is permissible. The test showed 1000+, the water in this camp was so dirty that it surpassed the reading capability of the machine.

We carried all the supplies down into the valley: buckets, PUR water purifying packets, plastic piping, white fabric for filtration, and handsaws to make the pipes into stir sticks. We roped off the area to set up the 300 buckets and prepare for the teaching and distribution.

We worked diligently with a few leaders from the camp to compile all the 'water-kits' and the aid organization began giving a tutorial on how to use them. Meanwhile, the crowd grew. Cristina and I made small talk, politely declining marriage proposals, and encouraging people to sing Swahili church hymns. We would dance and they would laugh.

However, as the training carried on, and the wait for the distribution grew long the mood changed. Thunder clouds began to roll in and people were not understanding that distribution would be delivered by pre-determined groupings. They could see that there were only three-hundred buckets. Old-women stood at the rope begging, "give me one, please", children started snatching parts of the kits when our backs were turned, and everyone was pushing. Leaders tried to command attention and order. Then a few people grew bold: snatching the buckets and making a run for it. Local leaders helping with the distribution furiously chased them, yelling and swinging a stick. They would strike the thief, and angrily reclaim the bucket and as many of it's components as possible.

The rain began and the situation grew grave. Small sticks didn't suffice so larger ones were lassoed in the air to try and protect the buckets. The ropes were torn down and mayhem ensued. We grabbed our tools and headed towards the car. All around us people were fighting, yelling, and running.

Mission incomplete.

HEALing Arts Emergency Fund Beneficiary- Heri

2008-11-13T08:04:00.003-06:00

A few days ago I was finishing up an errand in the hospital compound when Annifa, the manager of HEALing Arts, pulled me aside to tell me about a newly admitted rape patient that sounded like a canididate for our "Emergency Fund". Annifa explained that the person came from a village far away from Goma without money or relatives to administer care for the duration of the hospital stay. We both assumed the rape patient was a woman.
We arrived at the specified bed and found a young man lying on his side. His bare chest was half covered with the white bed sheet. He greeted us with a weak whisper of a voice. With each movement and breath he clenched his muscles, wretched with pain. Heri's discomfort was so unsettling: the strength and youth of a man assulted. With tears he explained that he lost his children and family. He also said that the instrument of assault was a knife. We left the ward with heavy hearts, even recounting this portion of the story leaves me unsettled. Later Cristina took the full account of his story.

"Heri is from Kiwanja, north of Goma, next to Ruthsuru. A poor bean seller at the local market, Heri had already seen his fair share of trouble and pain. Heri is a widower, caring for his two children, his mother and his two younger siblings. However, it was not until that fateful Wednesday, October 29 when his world truly fell apart.

He was out in the fields when he heard of the fighting breaking out in town. Immediately, he raced home with his two brothers. Unfortunately, Rwandan soldiers with the CNDP army of General Nkunda had already arrived at his house. As they approached, he heard the tall soldiers yelling in Rwandese “There they are! They are inside!” A split second later, they launched a large grenade into his home. The explosive destroyed his house, killing his mother, two children and younger brother inside. Heri and his brothers turned around to flee, but were instantly surrounded by soldiers on all sides. Then bullets were fired and both of his brothers fell dead. Heri threw himself down next to them, pretending as if he had been shot as well, but they were not deceived. They attacked and beat him wildly, banging his head against the rocks, gouging his forehead.

Finally, they raped him with a knife, leaving him for dead. All Heri could think about were his two dead sons, Tungane, age 7, who had just begun school and wanted to become a priest because he loved God, and little 4 year old Bulenba, who had been happily playing inside their house that same morning.

Later, a lone moto driver, also fleeing heard Heri's cries for help and picked him up. Heri remembers very little, only that he was transferred once or twice to other vehicles and found himself at the HEAL Africa hospital on Friday night.

He has begun receiving treatment, but he cannot afford to pay anything, having lost everything in the war. HEALing Arts’ Emergency Fund is covering all his bills. Despite his deep suffering, he is beginning to look towards the future. Little by little, he hopes to regain his strength. Heri is interested in learning to make products out of banana leaves at HEALing Arts."

I've heard statistics that 10% of all rape victims in Congo are men, but no one is talking about what this does to the fabric of a society. With high poverty and unemployment, many men feel incompetent. When men are unable to protect their wives, daughers, mothers and sisters from assult...how do they feel? When they themselves are victims what can they do!?

BBC "In Pictures" DR Congo Unrest

2008-11-11T11:12:00.003-06:00

Some of the best reporters we've met are from the BBC, check out this account of the suffering in pictures.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7722688.stm

Psalm 35

2008-11-01T12:03:00.005-05:00

1 Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me;
fight against those who fight against me.
2 Take up shield and buckler;
arise and come to my aid.
3 Brandish spear and javelin
against those who pursue me.
Say to my soul, "I am your salvation."

4 May those who seek my life
be disgraced and put to shame;
may those who plot my ruin
be turned back in dismay.
5 May they be like chaff before the wind,
with the angel of the LORD driving them away;
6 may their path be dark and slippery,
with the angel of the LORD pursuing them.

7 Since they hid their net for me without cause
and without cause dug a pit for me,
8 may ruin overtake them by surprise—
may the net they hid entangle them,
may they fall into the pit, to their ruin.
9 Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD
and delight in his salvation.

10 My whole being will exclaim,
"Who is like you, O LORD ?
You rescue the poor from those too strong for them,
the poor and needy from those who rob them."

How you can help...

2008-10-31T02:51:00.002-05:00

1. Pray
--For peace and protection for the region
--For our enemies
2. Donate Money
-- For food and medical expenses for victims
Instructions: Write check out to HEAL Africa with HEALing Arts- EMERGENCY FUND written in the memo. Then mail check to Harper McConnell at P.O. Box 147, Monroe, WA 98272.
3. Petition your Politician
--Write a letter or email to your Senator, and Congressman.
--Letter Template: http://healafrica.org/cms/files/media/Coltan%20Letter.pdf
--Find your Senators: http://www.senate.gov/index.htm
--Find your Congressman: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
Thankyou for your support and encouragement!!!

How Congo's Heaven Became Hell (BBC Report)

2008-10-29T08:43:00.003-05:00

As Congolese government troops and UN peacekeepers engage in fierce fighting with rebel forces in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, BBC World affairs correspondent Mark Doyle assesses why it is such a volatile region.

Eastern DR Congo was once memorably described by the journalist Kate Thomas. The place "looks like heaven", she wrote, "but it feels like hell". She was right. There are towering volcanoes, rushing rivers and sparkling lakes. Heaven indeed.

Eastern DR Congo feels like a different country to the capital, Kinshasa And there are, above all, the hills - the green, rolling and fertile hills that stretch from the current conflict zone, right across the border into neighbouring Rwanda, which is itself called the "Land of a Thousand Hills". That should be a clue as to why eastern DR Congo is also hell.

The geopolitics of central Africa have tied the heart of eastern DR Congo, the provinces of North and South Kivu, whether they like it or not, to Rwanda. After the genocide of Rwandan ethnic Tutsis, in 1994, the killers - the Rwandan army and a large proportion of the entire population of ethnic Hutus - were militarily defeated and chased into DR Congo. Some of them remain in eastern DR Congo as a militia force which, according to Rwanda's now dominant Tutsi rulers, could threaten genocide again.

But in the intervening years another force also emerged in eastern DR Congo, this time a Congolese Tutsi force, led by a self-declared general, who said he was protecting Congolese Tutsis from the Rwandan Hutu militia. Almost all Congolese say that "General" Laurent Nkunda is a puppet of Rwanda's Tutsis.

In reality neither of these groups is really protecting their ethnic kith and kin because they are, by their pursuit of violent solutions, exposing their people to reprisals from the other group. That is what hell feels like in eastern DR Congo.

According to the United Nations there are now about a million people displaced by the war in the single province of North Kivu alone. Eastern DR Congo feels like a different country to the capital, Kinshasa, which is 3,200km (2,000 miles) to the west on the Atlantic seaboard. Northern DR Congo is tied to the capital by the Congo River, that great trading artery of the country that flows down to Kinshasa. Southern Congo is tied to Kinshasa by money - most of the profitable industrial mines are in the south and the Kinshasa politicians, of course, stay close to them. DR Congo is home to the world's largest UN peacekeeping force But eastern DR Congo is just a separate series of seemingly intractable problems with Rwanda glued on.

From Kinshasa, Rwanda looks like a humiliatingly tiny and tightly run country which has successfully fought proxy and real wars with giant, unruly DR Congo. Journalists talk in shorthand about "the world's largest United Nations peacekeeping force" working in "one of Africa's largest countries". But in reality almost all the UN forces are concentrated in and around eastern DR Congo.

The region is the source of the tensions that have sparked all of DR Congo's wars in the past decade. Though it looks like heaven, for those one million war-displaced people, it feels like hell.
And the UN, for all its concentration of forces, has not fixed it.

Vita Itakuja (War is Coming)

2008-10-28T03:56:00.002-05:00

Please Pray:
For the Congo- for the people who can not escape the fighting.
For Peace- for the conflict to end.
For our enemies- the rebel army leaders and any who would seek to do harm.
For the UN-that they would prevent the rebel armies from taking the town of Goma.
For us- As we decide whether to evacuate to Rwanda with the other NGOs or if we decide to go and work in Beni (a town far from the fighting) with a partner organization called Congo Initiative until the city of Goma is safe.
Thank God- that we are safe and have the resources to evacuate.

To inform yourself on the current situation:

Go to Google News. Enter "Goma" in Search and click on 'News in the Last Hour'. You'll find a plethora of new information.

Or Check out the Links Below...

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1081152/20-000-forced-flee-Congo-peacekeepers-launch-helicopter-attack-UN-compounds-stoned-rebels.html

LA Times, "A Day in Photos"
http://www.latimes.com/la-1027-day09_k9ef62nc,0,2017332.photo

BBC News, "In Pictures"
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7693828.stm

The Hardening of Boyhood (A poem by Cristina Edelstein)

2008-10-22T10:58:00.006-05:00

Fathers emasculated by their inability to protect their daughters and wives.

The blank stare of trauma, the troubled mind eased by its surrender

To nothingness.

The anger, the pain, the inability to change

The government, the soldiers as they range

With empty, greedy, starving eyes.

Too easy to blame them, but little would you know

Their wives have also been ravaged with that blow

The stripping of feminine privacy, purity marred for the world to see

But would you believe it?

Often children they may be.

The destruction of war is destruction by greed.

Mask it as tribal, mark it as sexist; hatred is only the seed.

Who doesn’t want more- more wealth, more power?

More ability to protect one’s own family?

Dignity vanished…

A young boy dreams of becoming a doctor;

His impoverished father hands him a gun.

“Your work is cut out for you now, boy.

No, in this hard world we live in,

I must teach you to fight for survival.

Education is for the wealthy, not for people like us.

Let go of your childish dreams, wipe your tears, and straighten your back.

Today you will learn to defend your family so that when you are married,

No man will be able to do to your wife and daughters

What those men did to your mother and sisters.

Listen and learn:

Run until you can go no further, fight for what is yours.

In this world of evil, in this war, there are no rules.

Grab what you can, eat it while you have it.

Trust no one and do not plan for a long life.

This world is not a happy place,

So wipe your tears, straighten your back and

Stop your hand from shaking

As you hold this gun.

This is your future.”

The boy tightens his grip on the cold metal,

Wipes his cheeks with his tattered shoulders,

Bites his trembling lip and with eyes still welling with tears,

Learns as he looks up into his father’s hardened eyes.

Nyirandegea Florance

2008-10-13T03:20:00.005-05:00

In Rwanda she worked in the fields cultivating beans, as well as selling second hand clothes to supplement her income.

She was raped when she was 14 years old, after which she began to leak urine due to fistula. She was horrified, but lacked the means to find a solution to her problem. As she was nearing 20 years of age, she went to Goma all by herself, since her family could not leave their fields. Her family was very vulnerable financially because her father was killed in the genocide.

Nyirandegea crossed the Congo border because she heard about HEAL Africa, and that there were specialists who helped women like her. She received her first operation after being sick for six years. She has already received two operations and has not healed yet. She never attended school and is just learning to read and write now at 23 years of age. She also has learned to sew at Grounds for Hope and is able to make a livable income from the fruits of her sewing.

She is an active participant in sewing the newborn baby outfits for the Safe Motherhood program in Congo’s rural areas. Her favorite activity is weaving beautiful Rwandan baskets, which she also continues to produce for sale, as seen in the above picture.

First Day!!!

2008-09-29T09:24:00.001-05:00

Wow, I am here. After three days of travel, we (Cristina- my partner and I) have arrived. The drive through Rwanda was breathtakingly beautiful! The mountains are lush with vegetation and the volcanoes are a grey shadow in the background. The valleys are a green and brown patchwork of farmers’ fields. Big banana trees are everywhere. Sporadic trees with bright red berries are a beautiful surprise on the landscape. In between my facination with the view and a few naps storm clouds were forming. When we were about an hour away from Goma a storm hit. It was strong! We saw half dozen trees down on the road, but thanks to all you praying for our safe travel we arrived unharmed.

Today, I’m being oriented to HEAL Africa! The hospital has an outpatient clinic, operating room, pediatric unit, neonatal unit, prenatal unit, early-birth unit, men’s and women’s ward, AIDS testing service, various psycho-social and spiritual counseling offices, and those are just the ones I can remember. Additionally there is a school, peanut butter-making child nutrition project, Healing Arts sewing/income generating project, conference center, restaurant, vehicle repair and maintenance shop, and a small agriculture program. It is busy with women cooking, washing, nursing babies, and talking. Little kids run around playing and people wait to be seen by the doctors. Most people (especially the children) are surprised to hear me speak Swahili and they receive me like an old friend with kisses and laugher. Introducing myself to a child instantly makes me their best friend; they hold my hand and plead to be picked up. I love it.

This afternoon I will go home in a land rover jostling over the lava rocks (prevalent due to the volcano eruption in 2002). Cristina and I share a room and bathroom. My mom would be happy to hear we have security guards and I sleep under a bednet. We live at a place called Maji Hai where many of HEAL Africa’s guests and short-term volunteers stay. It is alive with activity and conversation. It is quite an interesting and international group! Cristina has been a joy and gift. She introduces me to everyone and I follow her like a puppy dog. Tomorrow I start with my Swahili tutor!

Tutasumulia, baadye! (We’ll be talking later!)

Where I'll be...

2008-09-12T17:09:00.009-05:00

I'll be living in Goma; a city located on the eastern side of the country, neighboring Rwanda.

HEAL Africa describes Goma on their website, "The city of Goma lies on the eastern edge of the Democratic Republic of Congo, bordering the country of Rwanda (area map). During the genocide of 1994, the UNHCR estimates that nearly a million refugees sought shelter in the area. After the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo in 2002, tens of thousands of families lost their homes. Unlike the rural areas which are very fertile, Goma is built on volcanic lava without water supply or soil, making it very difficult for the population to support themselves. 70% of families in the area have an average monthly income of less less than $25."

Preparation for the DRC...

2008-08-25T10:43:00.000-05:00

My last few months in the States have been eventful!
Last month my sister and my best friend each got married, (one in Edina and the other in Virginia) it was so fun being a part of their special day. I am encouraged by their example of Christ centered marriage and delighted in seeing Christ's love reflected in their relationship.
In addition to the celebrating I've been learning: French and attending skills seminars from the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs (group process facilitation, grant-writing, and leadership assessment). My last few classes at the University of Minnesota were fantastic! I am so blessed to have studied at this institution.
Additionally, I resigned three jobs that I held over the past year. The first job was an internship with Green Lands, Blue Waters; my work contributed to sustainable livestock practices. I wrote an informational brochure for producers considering Grass-fed Beef. I became good friends with my advisors. Their professionalism and character have inspired me. The second job was with an after-school program in St. Louis Park where I worked as a substitute teacher. The kids and staff were great. Saying goodbye to those kids was hard, snotty noses, poopy diapers and all. And the last job was at a neighborhood coffee shop, Java Jacks. Java Jacks was like my second home! My co-workers felt like cousins (might not see 'em everyday, but you pick up where you left off- joking and razin' each other) and with such regular customers, I really got to know them! I miss serving people that beautiful, brown, energizing goodness. I miss playing with their kids and pets (we have lots of dogs and even the occasional parrot). Java Jacks is exactly what a coffee shop should be...the energy and meeting grounds of the neighborhood. :)
Leaving these jobs has been bitter sweet, but its made way for my to start working with the staff at Christ Presbyterian Church and the Upper Room. They have warmly invited me into their homes and lives. My heart is so full of joy and excitement as I reflect on the kindness of God!