Ivory

Côte d’Ivoire has headlined African news for the better part of a month. Consequently it has been on my mind frequently. 

It is a situation that is complicated but I’ll explain to the best of my understanding... 


Elections, hoped to reunite the country, were held in November. Since the results were posted they have been widely disputed. The incumbent (Gbagbo), with support in the South, insists he remains the democratically elected leader. The challenger (Ouattera), supported by the North, is recognized by the United Nations and many world powers as being the leader. Both have been sworn in as President, and have appointed cabinets. The challenger has been under UN protection since the election. 

I have never been to the Ivory Coast but it is a country that has deeply affected many people that have had a profound impact on me. It is estimated roughly three million Burkinabe live in the Ivory Coast. (3 million of a country of 15 million!) 

I spoke with a friend in Burkina today. His concerns mirror those portrayed by the media.  

He told me it was a major concern. And then said, “I hope there won’t be a civil war.” 

This is what the world is hoping. 

We read about what is happening, hear about the rising tensions in Cote, anticipate news from the different nations and organizations that have taken an interest in the outcome....

And we wait. And we pray. 

                                                                      

I have been following several journalist's blogs (in addition to keeping up with the BBC) to attempt to keep updated on what is happening in Côte. If you're interested here are some links I have found informative: 

Hotel Ivory

West Africa Wins Always