#LetterToRiver: Nyakagera River by ALIMASI SABUNI GASTON - A Lifeline of Rwanda

Dear Nyakagera River,
I am writing to you today to thank you for everything you have done for me and for the people of eastern DRC.

You are a source of life for so many people.
You provide drinking water, irrigation and transport.
You are also a source of recreation and tourism.
I grew up on your banks.
I spent my childhood playing in your waters and fishing on your banks.
You have always been there for me, and for that I am grateful.
I know that the security situation in the east of the DRC is difficult.
Armed groups have attacked villages and looted property.
People have been killed and wounded.
Families have been separated.
But you are a symbol of hope for the region.
You are a source of peace and tranquillity.
You remind us that beauty and life still exist in this world.
I dream of a day when I can return to my village and live by your banks again.
I know that day will come, and I look forward to it.
In the meantime, I will continue to thank you for everything you do.
You are a precious treasure, and I promise to protect you.
With all my gratitude,
A refugee from the Nyakagera river

P.S. I hope you continue to flow freely and bring life to the people of eastern DRC.