Central African Repubic troubles

Tonight I became aware of problems occurring in the CAR. If you are new to this blog, let me explain why I have an interest in this small African nation. I went to the CAR in October 2005 for two weeks to help in the building of an orphan care center for Integrated Community Development International (ICDI). You can't visit a place like this and not come away with a real heart-felt care for the people that live there. It is a very poor country but many are working hard to make it better. During my time there, I had heard rumors of a teachers strike and now Reuters is reporting that the 2 month old strike is now over. I guess they did go on strike after all for not being paid.

But then a new story appeared, literally as I was reading the the web page:

Two killed in Central Africa riot - witnesses

05 Jan 2006 19:30:21 GMT

Source: Reuters
BANGUI, Jan 5 (Reuters) - Two people were killed in rioting in Central African Republic on Thursday after security forces opened fire in a confrontation with a crowd mourning a murdered soldier, witnesses said. (more)
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L05211406.htm

This really concerns me because the director of ICDI, Jim Hocking, is on his way back to the CAR today. Please join me in praying for the stability of the CAR and for Jim's safety during his trip.