DRC Journal: Entry 1

Three days of gruelling travel...Seattle - DC - Johannesburg - Kinshasa...and I'm here in the Democratic Republic of Congo! It's hot and humid and very green. Kinshasa, the capitol, is buzzing with over 8 million people that all seem to be on the streets at the same time. As I sit here borrowing someone's laptop the electricity just went out, which happens often. Luckily we have water. I met an American who is studying Congolese music here yesterday who said that before we arrived they had not had water or electricity for 10 days.
I have met many interesting people... today I spent several hours with a doctor talking about women's issues in Congo particularly surrounding childbirth, which as a doula is of great interest to me. On Wednesday I head to Bukavu in eastern Congo which was where much of the conflict occurred and where many women are suffering.
I have to run as the sun has set and the mosquitos are starting to buzz around me. I will try to report again soon. Thanks to all for your prayers and well wishes!