Feb 14th or 15th.

  So much of what Kikwit is about is it/s taxis both cars and motorbykes. They present a conflicting view of African life -- one reason I consider them a non- adapted bit of foreign culture that has never been Congolized. Whereas the life here is slow, relaxed and allows for interpersonal interaction, the taxis represent a very fast, aggressive approach. Others become obstacles and speed the ultimate. Anything in front, needs to be passed. I must add tough that the taxi driver are very skilled. They know every pothole in the 5 miles of main street. Normally, they are running " abreast with very little clearance between vehicules. In one sense they do represent Kikwit is that they all look to be survivors of a demolition derby.
  I did have a :first the other nght. It was dead dark and I crawled into a taxi with no  lights. I was scared at times. Fortunately he pulled in behind a moto with lights and I hoped he would follow. He passed. We made it home.