I have watched some of your youtubes videos. Your trip is impressive.
How is the Jeep Holding up?
I have always wondered if the Defenders were over rated, the few I have seen make the Jeep look like luxury vehicles. I think your jeep will break some of those stereotypes.
As I think about it more the Defender is likely only associated with Africa because of British and European Colonialism over much of the area. They bought and used vehicles that were available to them and there military forces. I have never seen an extremely reliable Land Rover in the states until the LR3.
Good luck on your voyage.