Kikwit, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Welcome to Kikwit, the largest city in Kwilu Province, located in the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Known as ‘The Mother’ in the region, Kikwit is a bustling commercial center with a population of approximately 458,000 people as of 2017. The city is home to a stadium and is famous for its traditional dances, particularly the Bapende dancers who hail from the village of Gungu. These dancers wear colorful masks and attire made from raffia, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Kikwit is also home to an airport, Kikwit Airport, and is connected to the capital city of Kinshasa by a new road and river transport. However, Kikwit is not without its challenges. In 1995, the city experienced a serious outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus, and in 2014, a tribute concert for singer King Kester Emeneya ended in tragedy when a power failure caused a stampede that killed at least thirteen people. Despite these difficulties, Kikwit remains a fascinating and unique destination for travelers looking to experience the vibrant culture and history of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.