Walungu

Walungu is a significant territory and town in South Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The region is situated southwest of Bukavu on a fertile plateau surrounded by the foothills of the Mitumba Mountains. Walungu is the cultural heartland of the Bashi people and is traditionally ruled by a powerful Mwami (king). The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cassava, beans, and maize being the staple food crops. In recent years, artisanal mining, particularly for gold and tin ores, has gained importance, though it often leads to ecological issues and social tensions. The region is known for its high population density and intensive land use. Historically, Walungu was severely affected during the various Congo wars, resulting in massive population displacements. Today, the region strives for stability and infrastructure development to improve access to markets in Bukavu. The rich oral traditions and traditional dances of the Bashi people are an integral part of the local identity.

Nearby cities

Bukavu

Bukavu is the capital of South Kivu Province, located at the extreme eastern end of the country on Lake Kivu.

Uvira

Uvira is a city in South Kivu Province, located at the northern tip of Lake Tanganyika, near the Burundi border.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site offering the unique chance to track the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas in their natural rainforest habi…

Mwenga

Mwenga is a mining and agricultural town in South Kivu province.

Kalehe

Kalehe is a town on the western shore of Lake Kivu in South Kivu.

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Kamituga

Kamituga is a city in South Kivu Province, historically significant for its large-scale gold mining operations.

Idjwi Island

The second-largest inland island in Africa, Idjwi offers a peaceful, untouched retreat with lush landscapes and welcoming local communities.

Lake Kivu

One of Africa's Great Lakes, forming the border between the DRC and Rwanda, known for its stunning mountain scenery, clear waters, and ge…

Shabunda

Shabunda is the capital of a vast, remote forested territory in South Kivu.

Baraka

Baraka is a city in South Kivu Province, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika within the Fizi Territory.

History & landmarks

Collège Alfajiri

Collège Alfajiri in Bukavu is one of the most prestigious secondary schools in the DR Congo, known for its academic excellence.

Our Lady of Peace Cathedral

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Paix in Bukavu is a beautiful Catholic cathedral with stunning views over Lake Kivu.

Concord Stadium (Bukavu)

The main stadium of Bukavu, located in the Kadutu district.

St. Kizito Cathedral (Idjwi)

The main church on Idjwi Island in Lake Kivu.

More places

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Uvira Coast

The Uvira coast on the northern Lake Tanganyika was a strategic starting point for inland expeditions in the 19th century.

Kamanyola Gorge

A deep gorge of the Ruzizi River, connecting Lake Kivu with Lake Tanganyika.

Bukavu Children's Park

Children's parks in Bukavu provide scenic and safe spaces for play overlooking the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

Historical Ruvubu Valley

The valley region in the east of the country was an ancient migration and trade route between the Great Lakes, used for the exchange of i…

Pharmakina Factory

Pharmakina in Bukavu is the largest factory in Africa for producing quinine from cinchona bark to combat malaria.

Historical Costermansville

Founded as Ruzizi and later named after Governor Costermans, Bukavu was a fashionable resort with European flair on Lake Kivu.

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Twangiza Gold Mine

Twangiza is an open-pit gold mine in the South Kivu Province, representing a major industrial investment in the region.

Port of Bukavu

The port of Bukavu at the southern end of Lake Kivu is a central port of call for ships from Goma and Idjwi.