Conflicts continue

Further south, about 15 hours drive from here, there continue to be armed attacks against vehicles traveling on the main (only) north/south highway.  We are effectively cut off by road from the capital city.  Vehicles are traveling only in armed convoy, and there have been many military deaths and some civilian deaths.  Closer to us, but still 8 hours drive south, there is bush fighting going on between the government and the main opposition group.  Deaths are occurring regularly.  We were able to drive by that area in June without any difficulties.  Elections are approaching in October, and we don’t know if things will get worse or better, or just continue on as they are.  There are concerns that things will escalate after elections if the desired result is not obtained (by any of the three parties in the running), but meanwhile things are quiet in our city and we don’t anticipate problems soon.  There have been some difficulties in obtaining supplies because transport from the south is more difficult, but overall supplies remain accessible here.  Many of our supplies come in through a port on the coast directly east, so that helps.  – C