Congo, Democratic Republic🇨🇩
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a country in Central Africa, is the largest in sub-Saharan Africa. Bordered by nine countries: Central African Republic and South Sudan to the north, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania to the east, Zambia to the south, and Angola and Republic of Congo to the west. Its relationship with neighbouring countries is complex largely due to civil wars and mass migration. DRC is famously known for its rich diversity, vibrant cultures, intricate traditional dances and music like Soukous. Its landscapes are a blend of steamy jungles, vast plains, and active volcanoes. It comprises the Congo Rainforest, the second largest rainforest globally where one can explore wildlife and unique plant life. Visiting Mount Nyiragongo, a large active volcano, and exploring the Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary, home to orphaned bonobos are among recommended activities.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid travel to the east and northeast of the country due to military conflicts and the presence of armed groups.
- Do not drink tap water due to risks of waterborne diseases.
- Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings as these can turn violent.
- Avoid discussing politics in public due to underlying tensions.
- Avoid non-essential travel during the rainy season due to risks of floods.
- Avoid late-night travel outside city centers as carjackings and ambushes are common.
- Avoid solo travel, especially for women. Female travelers should also avoid excessive alcohol consumption and wearing revealing clothing.
- Avoid illegal activities such as drug use and trafficking. Penalties are severe.
- Avoid illegal border crossings. Land borders can close without notice.
- Avoid using street money changers, who often give bad rates or counterfeit currency.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Criminality in DRC is rampant with a high rate of violent crimes such as assault, robbery and kidnapping. Major cities like Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Goma record many cases of opportunistic and organized crime. Late-night ambushes on roads out of cities, carjackings, and residential burglaries are also common.
Terrorism 💣
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The DRC suffers from numerous active militant and rebel groups, primarily in the eastern provinces. In 2021, attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) resulted in multiple civilian casualties. Incidents of terroristic attacks have occurred in cities such as Beni and Goma, causing thousands of locals to lose their lives and property.
War ⚔️
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DRC has a turbulent history of wars and military conflicts, primarily the First and Second Congo Wars, leading to millions of deaths. Rebel groups like ADF continue to pose security threats, particularly in the eastern parts of the country.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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The DRC suffers from natural disasters, namely volcanic eruptions and floods. In May 2021, the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo near the city of Goma led to many deaths and displacements. Seasonal rains often lead to flooding, mainly affecting the northwestern parts of the country.
Medical Care 🏥
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Medical facilities in the DRC are severely underdeveloped and lack resources. Accessibility to healthcare services is limited, especially in rural areas. Emergency services are deficient or non-existent, including in larger cities.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in the DRC is not safe to drink. Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a major issue. Waterborne illnesses such as cholera and typhoid are common.
Disease Burden 🤒
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The DRC has a high disease burden characterized by Ebola, COVID-19, malaria, yellow fever, typhoid, and cholera. During 2020–2021, the DRC experienced its 11th Ebola outbreak.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption in the DRC is widespread and pervasive. Government officials often expect bribes for providing routine services. Corruption scandals such as misappropriation of funds intended for the DRC's COVID-19 response in 2020 indicate the extent of this issue.
Safety for Women ♀️
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DRC has a high prevalence of Sexual and gender-based violence, especially in conflict-affected provinces. Women travellers are advised to exercise caution, avoid travelling alone, especially at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Sexual orientation and gender identity are not widely accepted or understood in DRC. LGBT individuals may face societal discrimination and prejudices.
Censorship 📺
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Censorship is prevalent in the DRC. The government has frequently shut down the internet and blocked access to social media during periods of political uncertainty and public protests.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in the DRC is unreliable and unsafe. Traffic accidents are frequent due to poor road conditions and unregulated driving practices. There have also been cases of armed robberies on public transport.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
DRC is considered unsafe due to high crime rates, militia activities, armed conflicts, and disease outbreaks. Advisable to adhere to any travel advisories issued by respective embassies and avoid travels to conflict-stricken provinces. It's important to be vigilant when in public places and use secure and reliable means of transportation. Precautions should be taken to prevent mosquito bites, adhere to hygiene practices and obtain necessary vaccinations.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Many countries maintain embassies in DRC, primarily in the capital, Kinshasa. These include embassies of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, China, and India among others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before travelling to DRC, it is recommended to get vaccinations for diseases such as Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Meningitis, Polio. Ensure to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations as well.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
DRC is home to dangerous animals including crocodiles, hippos, and poisonous snakes like black mambas. Encounters with these animals in the wild can be fatal. Certain areas are also infested with disease-transmitting insects like mosquitoes (Malaria, Yellow Fever, Zika Virus).
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most visitors to DRC will need a visa, which should be obtained in advance. An invitation or a hotel reservation along with a return ticket are typically required for obtaining a visa.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF). Foreign currencies like US dollars are widely accepted. There are many bureaux de change in larger cities, but their rates can vary widely.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card acceptance is limited in the DRC. They can be used in major hotels and some restaurants in large cities. It's always recommended to carry cash.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Working while traveling in the DRC may be challenging. It requires a work permit and the security context can be difficult. Teach English programs and NGO work are possible options.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel in DRC is relatively high for sub-Saharan Africa. Accommodation, transportation and eating out can be expensive especially in areas frequented by tourists and expats.