Geography
Where is the Republic of Congo located?
The Republic of Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, is located in Central Africa. It is bordered by Gabon and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Cameroon and, the Central African Republic to the northeast, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the east and southeast, and Angola to the south. It also has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
What major river forms the majority of the Republic of Congo's western border?
The Congo River, the world's second-longest river after the Nile.
Which national park in the Republic of Congo boasts chimpanzees, gorillas, and the endangered okapi?
Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is the highest point in the Republic of Congo?
Mount Bongo, rising 3,930 meters (12,894 feet) above sea level.
What type of biome covers much of the southern portion of the Republic of Congo?
Tropical savanna, characterized by grasses, scattered trees, and seasonal rainfall.
History and Culture
What was the Republic of Congo formerly known as under French colonial rule?
Middle Congo (Moyen-Congo).
Who led the Republic of Congo to independence in 1960?
Abbé Fulbert Youlou, the country's first president.
What is the most widely spoken Bantu language in the Republic of Congo?
Lingala, used by around 60% of the population.
What traditional musical instrument is known for its unique sound and intricate carvings?
The ngoma, a slit drum made from a hollowed-out tree trunk.
Flora and Fauna
What large primate species shares its name with the Republic of Congo, but is found primarily in its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of Congo?
The bonobo, known for its peaceful and matriarchal society.
What brightly colored parrot is endemic to the Congo Basin forests and considered a symbol of the region?
The grey-necked parrot, with its vibrant red, blue, and green plumage.
What unique reptile can be found in the Congolese swamps, known for its long neck and crocodile-like jaw?
The Congo dwarf crocodile, one of the smallest crocodile species in the world.
What endangered plant in the Republic of Congo has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and produces a sweet-smelling fruit?
The Lovoa trichilioides, also known as the African walnut.
Economy and Current Events
What is the Republic of Congo's primary export commodity?
Crude oil, accounting for around 90% of its export revenue.
What significant infrastructure project was recently completed in the Republic of Congo, aiming to improve transportation and connect with neighboring countries?
The Pointe-Noire–Ouesso road, a 534-kilometer highway running through the Congo Basin.
What challenges does the Republic of Congo face in terms of sustainable development?
Deforestation, poaching, and economic dependence on oil are some key issues.
What international organization is the Republic of Congo a member of, working to conserve the world's tropical rainforests?
The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO).
Miscellaneous
What is the Republic of Congo's national flag known for?
Its three vertical stripes of green, yellow, and red, representing the country's forests, minerals, and blood shed for independence.
What popular Congolese dish combines plantains, fish, and peanut sauce?
Foufou with saka saka, a staple food enjoyed across the country.
What type of traditional dance is performed during celebrations and ceremonies in the Republic of Congo?
The ndombolo, a lively dance characterized by rapid hip movements and intricate footwork.
What Congolese musician became an international star in the 1980s with his blend of rumba and soukous music?
Papa Wemba, known for his flamboyant dance moves and energetic stage presence.
Advanced
What unique rock formation is located in the Congo Basin and was once inhabited by the Babembe people?
The Hanging Caves of Diosso, natural shelters formed by erosion thousands of years ago.