First Term Updates – Cote d’Ivoire/Senegal

“Following the air strike on their base in Bouake, the French have begun evacuating wounded and dead directly to Abidjan. One US citizen was killed in the air strike. He had gone to the French base and was with two French citizens when the bombing took place. Many French soldiers were wounded in the attack and several were killed.

“The situation around ICA is quiet for now so we have gone back to larger perimeters for staff and students. Many are helping with necessary details or writing messages to family and friends. The Dispensary has been in activity already but so far the injured brought here are not serious.

“Evacuees from the town of Bouake have begun to arrive at ICA where they are processed in classrooms before being taken to dorms. We are not sure how many to expect but we have a team of staff members handling the details of this and helping with any questions raised.

“We will have supper in the dining hall around 6 PM and plan to open the gym and Commissary after the meal is over. We hope to let everyone sleep in their own bed again tonight but will confirm the security of the area before supper to see what the French may suggest.

“It is difficult to project what will happen on the political scene as the reality of this tragedy becomes more clear. We continue to pray for people in Abidjan and other places where there have been reports of demonstrations or other problems. Thank you for your prayers for us as we seek to serve in any way possible for those who had a much more difficult time this afternoon in Bouake.

“The night was calm and things remain calm this morning. No troops have crossed the line of demarcation at this point. 

“Everyone slept in their own bed last night and the generator was on all night. Power has been out in Bouake for over 24 hours now but we continue normally. Adequate fuel is available and our deep well pump is holding the water tower level fine. The students are in class now and we continue to monitor the situation.

“The attacks yesterday hit the northern and southern entries of the town, a large military camp and a building which housed the FN offices. Trucks had been blocked at the entries to Bouake and, since the drivers sleep with the trucks, many were wounded. No count is available that I know of. People in town are able to circulate some but everyone is nervous and ready to hide if an attack seems immanent. This situation will become more and more difficult for people as many do not keep extra food or water in their homes.”

This morning around 7:15, a military plane flew overhead, surrounding Bouake at a low elevation, and subsequently shelled a location in Boauke – not sure where. Later, around 10 or so, two military planes did the same, this time dropping a few bombs (Bob actually saw them drop). We later heard some gunfire exchanged in the distance.

Needless to say, this is significant. We’ve been told to pack to be ready to go, although no definite decision to evacuate has been made. At this point in time, we’re unclear how we would go if we go. The French military is in the process of evaluating that – whether it’s safe to drive out or whether we need to go by helicopter.

Cellphone towers are out; our only communication is by satellite e-mail, so I’m not sure how often we’ll communicate. But we did want to let you know that we are safe. It would be extremely unwise for either side to attack us here – a group of French and Americans. We’re probably safest staying put.