Muraho from Kigali,

I have only been in Rwanda 10 days but it already feels like home to me. I moved into the Peacebuilding center last Monday. Thus far I am only sharing my dwelling with cockroaches. I got used to them quickly and as long I don't have to share my bed with them, I am happy.
The house is wonderful. I am usually woken quite early by the mosque prayers and the birds. The center is actually in Nyamirambo which is about 10-15 mins from Kigali center. This makes for a serene setting. I feel blessed.
Albert and Joseph are real treasures! They have been so welcoming and helpful. I feel very honored to be working with such a good team.
Yesterday, Joseph, Albert, his fiancee Innocente and I visited Albert s family in a nearby suburb to celebrate the arrival of Albert s niece. It was a lovely celebration with food, drink, speeches, prayers and well wishes and lots of debates. I was fortunate enough to sit next to Bernard who interpreted what I could not understand. The celebration ended around midnight. What a wonderful experience!
My work is starting to take shape and I am quite busy assisting Albert and Joseph in any way I can. Last week was mostly focused on making the center liveable by buying supplies and sort of decorating it while this week is more focused on research, contacting different people and writing. Tommorow Albert, Joseph and I are headed to Gisenyo (a few hours from Kigali) to establish a youth club there. This will be my first real field trip. I am looking forward to it.
All in all, this experience has already been so rewarding and I am very happy to be here.
I hope everyone is well. To my family and friends, I am eternally greatful for you support, encouragement and love. Murakose.