Provides an account of a Congolese city at the center of international aid efforts, as told through the everyday struggles of its people. Drawing on personal narratives--from taxi driver to market trader, doctor to local humanitarian worker--Trefon and Kabuyaya emphasize the resilience, pragmatism and ingenuity which characterizes so much of daily life in Goma. Resigned and hardened by struggle, the protagonists of the book give the impression that life is neither beautiful nor ugly, but an unending skirmish with destiny. In doing so, they offer insights into the social, cultural and political landscape of this unique city. --Adapted from publisher description.