Regarded until recently as one of the most dangerous countries on earth. The last 20 years has seen endless wars and bloodletting. It is estimated that an average of 1,500 people die each day here, due to the constant fighting.
Border guards
Only very recently has anyone dared to cross the border into this wild and unforgiving land. As yet I have not decided if it is advisable to venture into the DRC. A decision will have to be made nearer the time.
If we do cross into the unknown I would like to climb to the top of the active volcano ‘Nyiragongo’. Described as “beautiful and brooding’, it last erupted in 2002 and swallowed half the city of Goma in the process.
Provisionally, the plan is to cross into the DRC at the Rwandan border post near the town of Gisenyi. This is only a short distance from Goma, the regional capital in this part of the DRC.
Depending on circumstances we hope to explore the area and climb to the top of Nyiragongo volcano. At the moment it is difficult to judge if a visit to this wild and potentially lawless country will be possible or suicidal.
One of the few Westerner’s who has dared to venture into the DRC in recent years is Tim Butcher a correspondent with the Daily Telegraph and author. His book, ‘Blood River - A journey to Africa’s Broken Heart’, is a fascinating read and a real eye-opener for the armchair explorer. Tim’s journey along the River Congo is both difficult and daring. Some of the scenes described in the book bring home to the reader what life must be like for those unfortunate enough to have to endure the hardships that a failed state can inflict on its citizens.
