Lékoumou

Lékoumou is a department in the south of the Republic of Congo, located in the central part of the country. It is bordered by the departments of Cuvette, Bouenza, and Niari to the north, the Republic of Gabon to the east, and the departments of Plateaux and Kouilou to the west. The department covers an area of approximately 23,500 square kilometers and has a population of around 180,000 people, according to the 2017 census.

The capital of Lékoumou is Sibiti, a town located on the right bank of the Congo River. The department is known for its rich biodiversity, with numerous wildlife species including elephants, gorillas, and various bird species. The Lékoumou region is also home to the Lékoumou National Park, which is part of the Congo Basin forest and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The economy of Lékoumou is primarily based on agriculture and forestry. The department produces a variety of crops, including cassava, maize, and plantains, which are staple foods for the local population. The region also has potential for timber and non-timber forest products, although these resources are not yet fully exploited.

Lékoumou is part of the Niari Region, which was created in 2015 by the separation of the Niari and Lékoumou departments from the Cuvette department. The region is known for its cultural diversity, with a mix of Bantu and Pygmy communities. The local languages include Lingala, Kikongo, and various Pygmy languages.

The department faces several challenges, including deforestation, poverty, and limited access to healthcare and education. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable development and improve the living conditions of the local population.