Page 28 - SST Class 05

works in mines. Due to over-exploitation of minerals, Know It!

there is an acute threat to the environment here. v Congo is the largest producer
of industrial diamond and
Not many industries have developed in Congo. The
cobalt in the world.
important industries here are textiles, cement, food
processing, beverages, chemicals and mineral oils. The
industries are mainly located in the major cities of Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Matadi.

Its cottage industry includes making carved wooden statues and masks. These are very
popular here.

Energy Resources

The energy need of Congo is met by hydroelectricity projects which have been built on
the rivers. The Igna Project on the Congo River is one of the largest multipurpose
projects in the country. Electricity is also produced from coal and mineral oil. Only
about 15% of the country has access to electricity.

Transport and Communication

Roads and railways have not developed well in Congo owing to thick forests and
political unrest. Waterways are used. Some parts of the Congo River are navigable.
Kinshasa is the most important river port. Matadi is also an important shipping
terminal. Air transport facilities are available there. Kinshasa has an international
airport.

Congo has not developed well in communication facilities. Telephone lines connect only
some important cities. The mobile phone has improved connectivity. Radio, television

and satellite communication are becoming popular here with the passage of time.

Know It!
v The primitive method of sending signals by beating drums is still in use in many villages of Congo.

Major Cities of Congo

1. Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, is the largest city of Congo. It is situated on the
southern bank of the Congo River. Its population is about 11.8 million. A modern
international airport has been developed here.

2. Matadi is an important centre of industry, trade and transport. It has the largest
seaport of Congo and a railway junction. There are several small-scale industries
which manufacture cigarettes, beverages, vegetable oils etc.

3. Bokavu is an important place of tourist interest. Lake Kivu is the main attraction for
tourists.

28 Contemporary Social Science-5