I didn’t take any pictures of the Krai in the week before Apex’s funeral, because I felt that it would be insensitive. This is the roadtrip to Laigam.

We caravanned to Laigam with other members of the Yakamen tribe.

Some of the members of UTB road in the back of the car while Liz, Anton, and I were in the cab. They are a fun group with which to roadtrip.

We got a bit ahead of the caravan, so we stopped for a break. Judy passes around guavas and peanuts.

Ruth, Agus, Liz, Win, Nihlim, and Solo

Finally the caravan starts to catch up to us.

Just about ready to hit the road again.

When we got to Laigam, it was time to unpack all the gifts we had brought for Apex’s family

The process begins down to the funeral, and the wailing begins again.

The process continues down the road…

Entering the place where thousands of people will gather for the funeral.

The Yakamens make a strong showing with their presence and their gifts. There are definitely political elements involved in events like this.

I helped by carrying in some murita (the red fruit you see here)

We enter the tent.

Some of the gifts that were given to the family. This is kaukau…

…and plenty of murita

Now the funeral service actually begins with the procession of the pastors and those who will offer music. I was near the back.

Some of the music presented by Apex’s line…

The members of UTB offer some music at the request of Apex’s wife. Apex was a strong advocate for HIV education and had helped UTB on many occasions.

Huge crowds gather to honor this great man…an advocate for women’s right and HIV education.

Anton with some of the pastors after the service.

Time for us to head back to Mambis.