Photo Credit: Refugees International
11/19/2006

When asked why they left their village, one man explained that they were attacked by forces and their animals were stolen. He continued, “The army comes and says we’re rebels, but we are peasants. We don’t have arms.” Another villager, a teacher who spoke both French and English, said that the “bandits come for food and money but not to hurt people. Then, the military comes and they take money.” He said he has not been able to teach since January, but he hopes to teach again. For now, however, he wants food, healthcare and peace.