We Arrived In Bangui, "We made it!"

Refugees at Bangui airport (Txs trust.org/)

Well, we made it! After 17 hours in a plane and four airports, it is nice to be in Bangui. For me, from Burbank to Bangui, the temp raised from 25 to 95 degrees. Stepping off the plane we were welcomed with a blast of heat. Then onto the tar mat and a short walk to the terminal,

I am not in Ohio anymore. The sights, sounds, and yes smells greet us as we enter the small terminal. After making our way through the disorganized maze of people we waited for our big suitcases full of parts, filters and a few clothes to come around the small luggage belt, all but one arrived. This means we will not have a chance to see that suitcase until next week since there is only one flight a week from Paris to Bangui. This is part of the fun and we will make due with what we have.

Bangui airport & refugee camp (Txs Water for Good for photo)

On the drive from the airport we quickly start to see changes. The huge refuge camp, with around 100000 people in it, is on the right hand side, then we pass through the French military checkpoint , then we start to see buildings that have been destroyed during the fighting. It is estimated over 1200 buildings have destroyed in Bangui alone. It seems to me to be far less people walking along the streets compared to past trips.

We arrive at the Mission station where we are staying, and we are greeted by those who have taken up temporary refuge here. Then we are greeted by our dear friend, Andre, with his contagious laugh, We see that he has prepared dinner for us, nice! While Jim and I eat Andre relayed stories to Jim about the violence that has happened over the recent months. Even though I could not understand what he was saying, because he was speaking in Sango, I could hear the emotion in his voice. I think this will be something we will do a lot while we are here, just listen.

Thanks for your prayers!

Tim