The Beautiful Lake Kivu

Every time I visit Lake Kivu I am overawed by its beauty. I hope this feeling never wanes, because that beauty conceals some great sadnesses and tragic events. The lake forms a border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Rwanda which,  historically,  have had very strained relationships. At present there is a kind of peace,  with citizens on both sides of the border wanting to live in peace and harmony. 

The great strides that have been made by the people of Rwanda in the last 17 years could be ruined by people of ill will. Let’s pray for these two great countries and the powers that rule them.

After our visit to the village we spent two days in the comparative  luxury of Home St Jean,  by the lake. We had showers and a glass or two of  fridge cold Primus, sitting on the terrace overlooking the water and mountains. We spent some time by the lakeshore, reading and swimming (well one of us swam, the others dipped their feet!) We re –organised our brains and talked about our experiences of the past few days and made commitments to continue our involvement with the project.

Wendy and Phil were entering their third week of their holiday and had other things they wanted to do. Phil has a friend who is opening a Coffee Shop in Cockermouth  The Coffee Kitchen  and he has just signed a contract to buy Rwandan coffee for his customers. We visited the Co-operative and viewed the Washing Station which is situated not far from where I live.

We  visited the pottery at Gisagara and bought some lovely gifts, followed by a visit to the Ancient Kings’ Palace at Nyanza – including a ‘life size house of kings’, an amazing  structure and a fascinating  history. As a final insight into my life here,  we made a visit to one of my favourite schools where Wendy and Phil were introduced to the teachers and children. As usual the teachers wanted to practice their English and asked lots of questions about life in the UK. The children were as delightful and welcoming as ever. 

As a special treat for me,  we went to the Mille Colline Hotel in Kigali and had a wonderful steak lunch with chilled white wine – not tasted since January!!  

Unfortunately the swimming pool was empty because it was being re-tiled but next time...

Thanks Phil and Wendy for making the three weeks so happy and fulfilling. I'm proud of you!!