Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abidjan (Agenzia Fides) - “The appeal by Pope Benedict XVI has found great resonance in Côte d'Ivoire and was broadcast several times by the Catholic radio station,” Fr Celestine Ikomba, Scalabrinian, chaplain for the port in Abidjan, tells Fides. “I continue to follow with great concern the dramatic events that the dear people of Ivory Coast and Libya are experiencing at this time,” said Pope Benedict XVI at the end of the General Audience in St Peter's Square on Wednesday, 6 April.
Fr Celestine also describes the worsening humanitarian situation: “several areas lack electricity, and water and food are scarce. We have 300 refugees in the hospital. There are a hundred in our parish.” While former President Laurent Gbagbo remains barricaded in the presidential residence, transformed into a bunker, attacked by the Republican forces, some foreign embassies have asked for the protection of the Licorne French military force to evacuate their personnel. Speaking to Fides, Archbishop Ambrose Madtha, Apostolic Nuncio in Abidjan, said he could not talk right now but urged everyone to pray for Côte d'Ivoire. The Nunciature is located near the presidential residence, in the midst of the battle. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 7/4/2011)
