Karongi Here We Come

A frustrating start to the day when our breakfast, available from 7am we had been told, arrived at 8.25, the same time as Bp Nathan arrived to collect us. Spicy vegetable spaghetti with egg and avocado looked less than appetising, so wrapping a roll and a banana in a serviette, we headed off to Star School, confident in the knowledge that it would not be long before we were fed again..

The students were preparing artwork on the ground for Kwibuka, this is the time of the year when they remember the genocide. Chalk and a very liquid cement seemed to be the materials of choice. They told us government officials were due to visit later today.

Then a short but joyful visit to the nursery school where the children recited memory verses and sang for us. It is no wonder their faith is such an intrinsic part of their lives when they begin learning of God’s love for them at such an early age.  Lots of smiles and hugs and it was off to spend some time with the sponsored students.

A number of these students are in senior 6 and due to take their national exams. As their thoughts turn to university their concern over how they will fund their living costs is apparent. If they achieve sufficiently high marks they can win a government bursary for the fees, but the cost of living away from home may be a challenge they cannot overcome. They were all keen to know if they could receive any support through CHI. We couldn’t make any commitment but promised to pray that a way would be found for them to achieve their dreams. These bright and ambitious teenagers have so much to offer, and such bright futures in this rapidly developing country, if they can just access the opportunities available to them.

A refreshment break provided by Angel at Star School and it was off to CSK where Agnes is the acting Headteacher.

A short stop at CSK, lots more hugs from so many children of all ages, and we headed for the Bishop’s office to meet with his team and discuss various aspects of the ministry in this rapidly developing Diocese.

Prison Ministry is obviously very close to the bishop’s heart, and they were keen to tell us about the work being done and the impact being made. It is so hard for them to raise funds for this work as they cannot take photos and feedback, beyond a written report, is difficult. However, the impact is massive both in terms of those turning to Christ, over 200 baptised on the last occasion, and reintegration into society on their release. Bishop Nathan provided a New Year meal for over 13,000 men, women and children this year, the cost? Less than 50p per person.

Despite the rapid development and spread of the city, around 50% of Kigali Diocese is still rural. We spoke with Francois about his work on regenerative agriculture, improving the soil whilst farming, and his work in these rural communities.

Christine told us about the Mothers Union work with disabled women, teaching skills and providing small microfinance loans to assist them in supporting themselves and their families.

Once again, we were running late as we left on the 4 ½  hour journey to Karongi via Shyogwe, to pick up Bishop Jean Pierre and drop of Frederick, our driver. The usual chaos of the roads combined with roadworks, rain and low cloud, which on occasions, as we climbed high in the hills resulted in almost no visibility, made for an interesting journey, particularly when darkness descended at 6 o’clock.

Fortunately, Bishop Jean Pierre is a very steady driver, and we eventually reached Lake Kivu around 7pm.

This beautiful guest house sits on the shore of lake Kivu, the rooms are basic but clean, the area is tranquil and quiet, and we are looking forward to a good night’s sleep after the noise and bustle of Kigali.

Tomorrow we explore Karongi. This is a new Diocese for us, and we are looking forward to finding out more.