Trying to function as a nonprofit in Rwanda has it's challenges. The other day we met with the Land Developer for the District Government. We had done everything asked of us when it comes to negotiating privately with our neighbors to buy their land. John and Emmy (along with other government workers) had met three times over 2 months. When finally asked about price it was apparent that their idea of the value of their property wasn't in line with the actual value.
So the next step would be to get the government involved to set the price and to help residents move. The process is called expropriation. Land/house owners would receive less than what we would give them privately but it seemed to be the only option left. So we met with the Land Development guy expecting to get guidance of the next step in expropriation. Instead, we heard that they want us to continue to negotiate privately. The District wants us to write a letter to the Mayor and get his support. The District would then help us negotiate privately.
The only bright spot in this next step is if we can get the Mayor's approval. If we can obtain his support he can make sure that a fair price is given to landowners and that expropriation can be avoided. In reflection from our Thursday meeting I think everyone at the District would like to avoid the "work" of expropriation. If they really want City of Joy to succeed, like they say they would, then we will need the entire communities support.
Another option our Board talked about was the possibility of moving our project to another government chosen site. This would not be ideal but is an option. The District originally had a spot that they recommended to us that was in dire need of a school. We will keep praying that we are in line with God's timing and plan!
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