Democratic Republic of Congo, commonly known as Congo is a country in Central Africa, famous for having countless attractions including World Heritage sites, the famous Congo River and exclusive Okapi WildLife Reserves. Apart from that, Congo is blessed with exceptional natural resources like cobalt ore, copper and industrial diamonds. Another eye-catching attraction is the variety of ancient sculptures, arts and crafts which represents their traditional art.
OKAPI WILDLIFE RESERVE:
The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is considered as one of the prides of Congo. This is the only park where Okapi can be seen in their natural environment but other species like golden cats, elephants, birds, butterflies, Bongo Antelopes, leopards, chimpanzees, water chevrotain and forest genet can also be seen. This beautiful place is located in the north eastern part of Congo closer to the borders of South Sudan and Uganda. The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
THE CONGO RIVER:
When we talk about Congo, the conversation remains incomplete without discussing the Congo River. The Congo River is the deepest river in the world and the second largest river in entire Africa. This river provides livelihood to countless people.
This river is without a doubt one of the most mesmerizing places to visit for the adventurers and visitors.
ARTS AND CRAFTS:
As discussed in the beginning, arts and crafts are one of the attractions in Congolese culture. It plays a major role in their culture, this is the reason why it is evolving with the passage of decades along with the ancient traditional work. Most of the products are made from using wood, ivory, metal stones, feathers, animal skin and cowry shells.
LITERATURE:
When we talk about creativity and inspirational authors, Congo has produced renowned poets and authors who are not only famous on national level but recognized on international level. Few of the famous literary names in Congo are Kama Sywor Kamanda, Sony Labou Tansi and Batukezanga Zamenga.
If you are interested in reading new generation authors, then you should read “How Dare the Sun Rise: Memoirs of a War Child” by Sandra Uwiringiyimana.
ACCORDING TO THE NATIVE ABEL FROM CONGO:
MUSIC:
When we talk about the music of Congo, Rumba and Soukous are the two famous genres. Rumba is a musical genre that represents a multicultural form of expression originating from the ancient dance of nkumba. Generally played with the dance of a couple (male and female).
Soukous is another famous genre of music played by the rhythmic guitar or electric guitar along with lively vocals.
ATTIRE:
When we talk about the famous attire of Congo, it is none other than Liputa. This stylish attire is prepared with bright and colorful material. Liputa is the dress worn during different occasions and festivals.
All in all, it can be summed up that Congo is a must place visit in your bucket list if you are visiting Central Africa for the first time.
NOTE: We are thankful to the following for the research work.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Congo_River
https://www.worldwildlife.org/places/congo-basin
https://www.profor.info/countries/congo-democratic-republic
https://nednadima.medium.com/congolese-rumba-a-love-story-641cffee3024
https://worldmusiccentral.org/tag/soukous
https://danddclothing.com/blogs/african-fashion-blog/congolese-traditional-wedding-styles
https://nednadima.medium.com/congolese-rumba-a-love-story-641cffee3024
https://worldmusiccentral.org/tag/soukous
https://animalia.bio/bongo-antelope
https://www.oneearth.org/ecoregions/northeast-congolian-lowland-forests
Nice article
What beauty and bounty Allah has dispersed in this abode of ours! Are we worthy of this all. So far we have proved otherwise. Thanks for this informative write up @Nabeel