About Congo

There are two Congos - the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo.  We have put together a reading list to help you understand more about the complex history of DRC.

The photos interspersed throughout the page were taken by Ryan Carter, a photographer and visual storyteller, who has given us permission to use his images.

Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter

 

Fast Facts about the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) - where HandUp Congo works.

Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter

  • Capital - Kinshasa

  • Neighbours
    Nine countries border the Democratic Republic of Congo: Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Angola, Zambia and Burundi.

  • Population  - Approximately 104 million inhabitants

  • Ethnic Groups - More than 200 ethnic groups

  • Major Languages - Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba, Swahili, French

  • Size/Area
    2,345,410 sq km; approximately the size of Western Australia or one fourth the size of the USA.

  • Key Natural Resources  
    Diamonds, Gold, Coltan, Uranium, Copper, Tin, Silver, Cobalt, Niobium, Timber, Hydro Power, Manganese, Petroleum.

    Learn more about COBALT and ETHICAL SUPPLY CHAINS

 
Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter

  • Income  
    US $210 per year for an individual Congolese

  • Life Expectancy  
    55 years

  • Religions  
    Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 20%, Kimbanguist 10%, Muslim 10%, Other 10%

 

More Information

Photo by Ryan Carter

Photo by Ryan Carter