Trip to Kinshasa: Chaos, Charms, and Close Calls
Trip to Kinshasa If there’s one country that has remained shrouded in mystery for me, it’s the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As a student of history, this is one nation that has suffered the worst of both worlds colonized by a brutal Belgian regime and, post-independence, plagued by relentless conflict. From the tragic assassination of its first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba, to its rebranding as Zaire, the humiliating defeat at the 1974 World Cup, and the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" boxing match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman DRC's history is filled with drama, pain, and paradox. Despite it all, this country remains critical to Africa’s future, holding some of the world’s most coveted resources. Sadly, it often seems there are vested interests determined to keep it from functioning. Personally, I believe that if Africa is ever going to work, the transformation must begin with the DRC. Arrival: Lagos Vibes in French But enough of my historical rambli...