Kivu

Kivu is a geographical region in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, commonly used to refer to the historic area that comprises the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The name derives from Lake Kivu, a large freshwater lake on the border with Rwanda that has shaped the region's geography, economy, and cultural identity. The term is widely used in reference to both administrative units and the broader landscape around the lake and the Virunga Mountains.

Geography and biodiversity: The area lies within the Albertine Rift, the western arm of the East African Rift. Lake Kivu borders the DR Congo and Rwanda; the Virunga Mountains rise along the border, hosting a population of mountain gorillas and other wildlife. Major towns on the lake's shores include Goma in the north and Bukavu in the south. The Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located here.

Economy and resources: The region hosts significant mineral resources, including coltan, tin, cassiterite, and gold, and supports fishing, agriculture, and cross-border trade. The lake provides fisheries, and methane gas beneath Lake Kivu has attracted energy-development interest, with plans to extract gas for power generation. The area also faces security and humanitarian challenges tied to regional conflict, displacement, and governance concerns.

History and governance: Since the 1990s, Kivu has been affected by the Congo Wars and ongoing instability. It remains administratively diverse, with North Kivu and South Kivu as core provinces, while international stabilization missions and aid organizations operate to address humanitarian needs and promote development.