This is a short but very powerful photo essay about refugees living on the small islands around Lake Upemba in Africa. War and conflict going on in the Congo has driven millions of Congolese to settle on these islands despite the island’s present dangers. The muddy lands of the islands are not good for farming, so malnutrition and starvation is very common. This small collection of black and white pictures show the faces of many sick and hurting Congolese suffering from cholera, aggression from the Mai Mai fighters, and dehydration. The observer is filled with compassion at their condition as well as curiosity as to what kind of people they are and what their lives are like. The last picture stands out as it depicts many faces of smiling children. It seems to say that these people do have hope despite their bleak present circumstances.
What are you initial feels and reactions after viewing this photo essay?