Chaos in Eastern Congo

The M23 rebels in Eastern Congo decided to reek havoc once again. November 20th they launched an uprising against the government and took over Goma. This part of the country is rich in mineral resources and a constant battle for who gets to be in charge of it. Diamonds, copper, gold and coltan (a key component in the cell phones and other electronics we enjoy so much every day). The rebels spend their time killing innocent people and raping their women (rape is a weapon of war in the DRC). It is a devastating reality for the people in this country especially considering they are literally sitting on a gold mine of wealth. The Congo has been named "The Heart Of Darkness" and rightfully so. I'm not quite sure our little girl could be in a worse place. It's a shame considering how beautiful and how much potential this country has. From it's rain forests to its mountain gorillas. One day I really hope it will be at peace and we can take her back there. So on Thanksgiving we were notified that it was time to get Zola out of there. Her and 2 other children that are being adopted are still in Eastern Congo. The rebels had taken over Goma and the airports were shut down. Our agency has been trying every resource they can think of to get the kids out of there.  Everything from getting them in to Rwanda and flying them out of there.. to contacts with MONESCO at the UN. Unfortunately without the passports they can't leave the country. I haven't got any updates yet on the status of the transfer. But I did just read that they are reopening the airports. That is good news for getting Zola transferred to arms of love in Kinshasa where we will be picking her up. We have been assured that she is safe and since her orphanage in Katana is pretty much self sustaining she has been eating too. We're grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers that people have offered with her in this dangerous area. When we have an update on her transfer we will be sure to let everyone know.