I lived here for two years and it was a wonderful place to (partially) grow up. The marché on L’avenue D’independence, the endless green rice paddies, the evergreen forest leading up to the Queen’s palace at the top of the hill…

And the people. So warm and friendly. They have so little, but they’re willing to give you whatever they have if you need it more than they do.

As for the third-world aspect, this city needs our sympathy and support, not our scorn.

I would gladly go back.