AFRICA: IVORY COAST: SISTERS TRY TO HELP MAINTAIN CALM AMIDST FIGHTING

Agenzia Fides REPORT - “In our part of Abobo, the situation is a little calmer, even if the area is controlled by the so-called 'invisible commando',” says Sister Rosaria to Fides, from the Congregation of the Holy Family of Spoleto, speaking from Abobo, in Abidjan where fighting continues between those loyal to the incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo, and members of the so-called “invisible commando”, a group that boasts some supporters of President-elect Alassane Ouattara. “In other areas of Abobo the situation is more tense,” Sister Rosaria continues. “For example, since yesterday in Williamsville people have been blocked inside their homes. Even the streets are blocked in some cases.”
The rebels seem to have made some steps forward. The barracks of the Adjamé gendarmerie was conquered by the guerrillas. The clashes are moving into other areas of Abidjan, such as the town of Yopougon. “Our situation is like that of the rest of the population,” said Sister Rosaria. “We are close to the people, trying to cheer them up. Our presence is already a form of aid, for our serenity, even though not always easy to maintain, helps people to endure this situation.”
Another congregation, the Sisters of Providence, were forced to abandon their house in Abobo, as a result of the military attacks and violent clashes going on over several days. In the looting of their mission the sisters lost two vehicles and other property.

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