not the muzungu cycle tour

Lauren and Terri managed to see the Susa group of gorillas, which is the largest gorilla family.  They are still working their way down the mountain, as the Susa group is very high up at the moment and the hike up to see them was six hours!

After four trips to Rwanda, I can definitely say that today was my greatest immersion in African culture.   I had a 28 km cycle tour around Gisenyi with a guide.  We began on paved roads along the shore of Lake Kivu but were soon cycling potholed dirt roads on the far side of Gisenyi.  The streets are lined with simple dirt houses and there are people everywhere.  Children call “muzungu, muzungu, how are you?” while running after the bikes. Women carry everything imaginable on their heads.  There are fields of vegetables or flowers here and there.  Small shops carry vegetables and the ever-present cell phone cards.

We made a number of short stops including a huge market full of fruits, vegetables and used clothing.  People were laughing their heads off at us with our bikes and me wearing a Project Rwanda cycle jersey and bike shorts!  It helps to not worry about one’s image…

We got lots of thumbs up and cheers of enthusiasm from the Rwanda cycle team when they cycled past on their road bikes and spandex gear. 

We also stopped at a community centre that serves people with disabilities.  They teach disabled adults various crafts (sewing, knitting machine, woodwork, basket crafts) and have a program for deaf children and mentally challenged children.  The centre is sponsored by the zoo in Columbus, Ohio.  Don’t ask me the connection! 

My guide introduced me to a friend of his.  This person has had both hands amputated midway down the forearm – clearly an act of war.  It is incredibly sad and I can’t imagine how he is able to live with this horrendous disability.

This is a country of such contrasts.  Almost without exception, the Rwanda people I’ve met radiate kindness.  The land is spectacularly beautiful.  I am looking out over Lake Kivu where people chant and sing while race large wooden canoes.