Congo
Subregion: Middle Africa
Congo is a country located on the west coast of Central Africa. It is informally called Congo Brazzaville after the Capital City, Brazzaville to differentiate it from the Democratic Republic of Congo (which is also called Congo Kinshasa) The government is a Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential republic. The official language is French but the other recognized languages are Kituba and Ngala. The predominant religion is Christianity. Healthcare in The Congo is not good, it is not guaranteed for any of its citizens. There are over 300 hospitals or medical facilities but they are extremely understaffed. Eighty percent of the country is uninhabited tropical jungle.
Safety:
Overall, Congo has low crime. Although, crime, including theft, armed robbery, and assault, can be a concern in Congo Brazzaville, particularly in urban areas. Travelers should take precautions such as avoiding traveling alone at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of their surroundings. Congo Brazzaville has a history of political instability, and there have been occasional outbreaks of violence related to political tensions. Travelers should stay informed of current events and avoid any large gatherings or demonstrations. Congo Brazzaville is located in a region with a high prevalence of infectious diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. Travelers should take appropriate precautions, such as taking anti-malaria medication and getting vaccinated before traveling to the country. There are areas in Congo Brazzaville that are still affected by landmines from past conflicts. Travelers should stick to well-traveled roads and avoid any areas that are known or suspected to contain landmines. Women should avoid remote streets and being out at night alone. Rainy season makes side roads outside of Brazzaville impassable. The road conditions in Congo Brazzaville are poor, and accidents are common. Travelers should exercise caution when driving or riding in vehicles, and consider hiring a local driver who is familiar with the roads. Some roads may be impassable during the rainy season, which typically runs from October to May. Traffic in urban areas can be chaotic, with poor road markings, inadequate lighting, and a high number of pedestrians and informal street vendors. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid driving or walking alone at night. Vehicle accidents are common, and many vehicles are poorly maintained. Visitors should only use reputable transportation services and wear seatbelts when available.
Cultural Customs:
The culture in The Congo is a fusion of French, Arab and African cultures. Music and dance play a significant role in Congolese culture. Many Congolese are skilled musicians, and they enjoy dancing to a variety of traditional rhythms such as Soukous, Ndombolo, and Rumba. Congolese cuisine is a mix of various African and European influences. Staples include cassava, plantains, yams, and rice, which are often served with a sauce or stew. Meat dishes, such as goat, beef, and chicken, are also popular. Congolese traditional clothing is colorful and diverse. Women often wear brightly colored fabrics, which are wrapped around the body and accessorized with headscarves and jewelry. Men typically wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. It is commonplace to wear clean & pressed clothing because Congolese take pride in their appearance. Congolese art includes sculpture, painting, and weaving. Many Congolese artists use traditional materials such as wood and clay to create their work. Christianity is the dominant religion in Congo Brazzaville, followed by traditional African religions. Islam is also present in some parts of the country. Family is highly valued in Congolese culture. Extended families often live together, and there is a strong emphasis on respecting one's elders. French is the official language of Congo Brazzaville, but there are also many regional languages spoken, such as Lingala, Kikongo, and Tshiluba. Arranged marriage is a traditional practice. Men only can ask for a divorce. Polygyny is permitted but polyandry is illegal. When meeting people, you are expected to ask about the individual’s health & family to gain their respect. Discrimination against the forest dwellers (pygmie tribes) occurs often. They are turned away from hospitals, receive lower pay, and are not represented in the government.
Geography & Weather:
The Republic of Congo’s climate is Equatorial, hot and humid all year with a very short dry season, depending on the city.
In Pointe-Noire, which is on the coast of the country, the average temperature ranges from 73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The coolest month is July with a median temperature of 73 degrees F and March being the hottest month with a median temperature of 82 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is from October thru May. The dry season is June thru September. The sun doesn’t shine often on the coast. The average sunshine hours are 4 hours a day all year round. The sea temperature stays at 79 degrees all year round.
In Brazzaville, which is in the south-east, the average temperature ranges from 74 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The coolest month is July with a median temperature of 74 degrees F and April is the hottest month with a median temperature of 82 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is October thru May. Dry season is June thru September. Even though Brazzaville is at a higher elevation (1050 ft above sea level) than the coast the sun doesn’t shine much here either. The average sunshine hours are 4 hours a day all year round.
Economy:
The economy of the Republic of Congo, also known as Congo Brazzaville, is largely dependent on the oil sector, which accounts for the majority of the country's exports and government revenue. However, the country has struggled with economic instability due to the fluctuating prices of oil in the international market. Unemployment is also a significant issue in Congo Brazzaville, with many young people and women struggling to find work. The unemployment rate was estimated to be around 11% in 2020, with youth unemployment being particularly high. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the economy and employment situation in Congo Brazzaville, with restrictions on movement and economic activity leading to a decline in economic growth and employment opportunities. To address the unemployment issue, the government of Congo Brazzaville has taken steps to diversify the economy and promote investment in other sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and mining. The government has also implemented various training programs and initiatives to help improve the skills of the local workforce and make them more competitive in the job market. However, these efforts still face challenges due to limited resources and the country's economic instability.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Central African CFA Franc (XAF)
XAF 1.00 = USD .0017
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
5,518,087
Median Age:
19.2 yrs
Life Expectancy:
65.21 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
Cost: Tourist Visa, single entry 90 day $200
Business Visa, multiple entry 180 days (US Citizens only) $200
Visa must be obtained prior to arrival
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes
Naturalization - Congolese citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in The Congo for at least ten consecutive years, is of good character and behavior, no physical or mental disabilities, have no criminal convictions that had a sentence longer than one year.
Residency Requirements:
A temporary residence card is available for people over 16 years old who wants to relocate into Congo as expats. You must apply within 8 days after entry, have their 90 day tourist visa and apply for your residence card. The card is good for 1 year.
A privileged residence card is available to someone who has lived in The Congo for the last 10 consecutive years and less than 35 years old at time of arrival.
Resources:
U.S. Embassy Brazzaville
70-83 Section D
Maya Maya Boulevard
Brazzaville
Republic of the Congo
Telephone: +242 06 612 2000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +242 06 612 2010
Email: BrazzavilleConsular@state.gov