Kumbya

Kumbya is a "rustic" missionary retreat located a rough 1-2 mile truck drive from here. It's about a 20 minute drive, and we could probably walk it in 45 min. to one hour, but as muzungu we would draw an uncomfortable amount of attention and many requests for empty water bottles, which are apparently in great demand here. "Rustic" in this context means no electricity, no plumbing, and using outdoor latrines. Needless to say, I have not been tempted to stay overnight there yet! I am perfectly happy driving back to my little house with electricity and plumbing. But it is a great place to visit for an hour or two when we have free time. It has a little beach on the shores of Lake Kivu and good picnic facilities.

The picture on the left is of Lisa and myself at Kumbya. Lisa is British and about my age. I have really enjoyed talking with her and plan to spend more time with her after Lucas leaves tomorrow to go back to America :( Her family is volunteering here for 10 months, including 2 adolescent children. I think it has been a good experience for them, but I also can tell that she is looking forward to returning home in August. She told me last night that she has been planning her first meal back in England in detail :) ....all of her favorite things that she cannot get here.

The picture on the right is Lucas visiting a traditional grass hut on the Kumbya property. I am not clear on whether anyone stays in the hut overnight - perhaps - but again, it won't be me! Not far from Kumbya I saw the bottom rung of the local housing. It was a mud brick hut about six feet in diameter, with a dirt floor and a thatched roof. Sitting outside were 2 women who looked quite content and waved happily at us as we drove by. Wow. That sight was really good for my perspective. Sad and heartening all at once.