Some Observations

We have been making some general observations about Rwandan culture that we thought we would share with you before we tell you about our day.

Rwandans are very busy all of the time. They are working or on their way to work. If they live in the country, they are working in their fields or bringing crops to and from the market.

Most Rwandans walk from point A to point B. In the United States, these walks would be extremely long. For example, if a family lives 12 km from the market, they would walk there and back almost everyday.

People walking are constantly dodging traffic and vice versa. Vehicles often come within inches of pedestrians.

Honking, swerving, and cutting people off is the norm. Road rage, or even road anger are very rare.

Very few Rwandans are overweight.

Very few visit grocery stores. Most frequent the market to buy what they need for their homes. The markets in towns are similar to the farmer's markets in Minneapolis and St. Paul except on a much bigger scale.

Homes within cities are walled, and Rwandans lock everything. We have had up to 5 keys for one hotel room.

We have found no ice in Rwanda. Both drinks and food are usually lukewarm.

People stare at Muzungos intently but most respond with a large smile and a head nod when we greet them with some Kinyarwanda.

Rwandans have very few material posessions. This is due to obvious economic circumstances, but we have noticed that Rwandans don't necessarily desire material things.

Most people we've met have a very favorable view of the US and are very interested in our country and its people.

Rwandans are generally very optimistic.

There does not seem to be a negative overtone left over from the genocide. Our cab driver today said that the genocide was an event in the past. He said that Rwandans are now trying hard to invite others to their tables for meals.

Most Rwandans are very religious and practice some sort of Christianity (75% Catholic).

Meals sometimes take a long time to prepare. If you come here and get frusturated and ask yourself, "What, are they killing the chicken?" they may very well be.