Country Profile: Congo, Republic of the

The Republic of the Congo, located in Central Africa, is bordered by the South Atlantic Ocean and enveloped by Angola and Gabon. With a population of approximately 6.1 million, the nation is characterized by a diverse ethnic landscape and a rich array of natural resources, particularly in petroleum. The economy, heavily reliant on oil, faces challenges such as increasing poverty and a slow recovery from economic setbacks, compounded by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Governed as a presidential republic, the Republic of the Congo has experienced political stability under the leadership of President Denis Sassou-Nguesso since 1997, albeit amid criticisms of governance.

Geography

The Republic of the Congo features a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity, experiencing a rainy season from March to June and a dry season from June to October. The country's geography includes coastal plains, basins, and plateaus, with significant rivers such as the Congo and Oubangui. Approximately 70% of the population is concentrated in urban areas, primarily around the capital, Brazzaville, and the significant port city of Pointe-Noire.

Area: 342,000 sq km, slightly smaller than Montana.
Coastline: 169 km along the South Atlantic Ocean.
Elevation: Highest point is Mont Nabeba at 1,020 m.
Natural resources: Includes petroleum, timber, and uranium.

People and Society

Congo's estimated population is 6.1 million as of 2024, predominantly consisting of Kongo, Teke, and Mbochi ethnic groups. The nation’s primary language is French, with other local dialects present. The society reflects a blend of cultural traditions, evident in its diverse religious practices, which include Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and various indigenous beliefs.

Ethnic composition: 40.5% Kongo, 16.9% Teke, and 13.1% Mbochi.
Urbanization: 69.2% of the population lives in urban areas (2023).
Life expectancy: 72.9 years (2024).
Population growth rate: 2.38% (2024).

Economy

Congo's economy is predominantly driven by its oil and natural resources sector, although recovery from past economic difficulties has been sluggish. Despite a nominal GDP of $15.72 billion as of 2024, rising poverty and debt concerns pose significant challenges. The government is working on reforms to address these economic issues while navigating the post-COVID recovery landscape.

GDP (PPP): $39.147 billion (2024 estimate).
Unemployment rate: 19.7% (2024).
Main industries: Include petroleum extraction and cement production.
Agricultural share: Contributes 9.4% to GDP (2024).

Government

The Republic of the Congo operates as a presidential republic, with a legal system based on French civil law. The most recent election resulted in President Denis Sassou-Nguesso being reelected in 2021, reflecting the ongoing political structure. The country comprises 12 administrative departments, with Brazzaville as its capital.

Capital: Brazzaville, coordinates 4°15'S, 15°17'E.
Constitution: Last revised in 2015.
Voting age: Universal suffrage at 18 years.
Legislature: Bicameral Parliament with a National Assembly of 151 members.

Military and Security

The Congolese Armed Forces are responsible for national security, comprising various branches including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The military's focus is primarily on internal security and maritime protection. Recent years have seen the defense budget fluctuating, currently at 1.2% of GDP.

Active personnel: Approximately 12,000-14,000 (2025).
Military spending: 1.2% of GDP (2024).
Historical challenges: Faced internal conflicts and military reorganizations.
International deployments: Approximately 190 personnel in Central African Republic.

Energy

Congo's energy landscape is significantly dependent on fossil fuels, with a notable contribution from hydroelectric sources. The electrification rate as of 2022 indicates that around 50.6% of the population has access to electricity, with urban areas seeing much higher access than rural locales.

Electricity access: 50.6% of total population (2022).
Installed capacity: 842,000 kW (2023).
Petroleum production: 267,000 bbl/day (2023).
Natural gas production: 425 million cubic meters (2023).

Environment

The Republic of the Congo faces various environmental issues, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and wildlife protection concerns. The government is a party to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these challenges.

Forested area: Represents 64.2% of total land (2022).
Total renewable water resources: Approximately 832 billion cubic meters (2020).
Air pollution: Notably from vehicle emissions and sewage.

Transportation

Congo's transportation network includes a mix of air and maritime options, with several airports and a significant number of ports catering to trade and transit. The rail system connects major cities, although infrastructure remains challenged.

Airports: 56 (forecast for 2025).
Railways: Total of 510 km (2014).
Ports: 5 total ports with oil terminals on the Atlantic coast.

Communications

The Republic of the Congo's communication infrastructure is developing, with a notable increase in mobile cellular subscriptions and internet usage among the population. Fixed-line services remain limited.

Mobile subscriptions: 5.87 million (2023).
Internet users: Make up 38% of the population (2023).
Broadband subscriptions: About 78,000 (2023).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	6,097,665	2024 estimate
Area	342,000 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$39.147 billion	2024 estimate
Unemployment Rate	19.7%	2024 estimate
Birth Rate	28.7 births/1,000 people	2024 estimate
Life Expectancy	72.9 years	2024 estimate
Energy Consumption per Capita	7.351 million Btu/person	2023 estimate
Military Expenditures	1.2% of GDP	2024 estimate
Electrification Rate	50.6%	2022
Urban Population	69.2%	2023