MbujiMayi

Mbuji-Mayi is a city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It lies in the central part of the country, in the area formerly known as Kasai-Oriental. It has long served as a major urban and commercial hub for the region and is one of the country’s largest cities by population.

The local economy is heavily influenced by artisanal and small-scale diamond mining and the associated trading networks. Diamonds are mined in the surrounding areas and transported to Mbuji-Mayi’s markets, where rough stones and finished gems are bought and sold. The informal sector provides many jobs in mining, transport, retail, and services, making the city a key point in the region’s diamond supply chain.

The population is predominantly from the Luba ethnic group, with other communities represented in smaller numbers. Tshiluba is the most widely spoken language, while French is used in administration and education and Lingala serves as a common lingua franca. The city contains churches, mosques, and other places of worship reflecting the region’s religious diversity.

Mbuji-Mayi grew rapidly during the 20th century as a diamond trading center and became the capital of the former Kasai-Oriental Province. In recent decades, the city has faced infrastructure challenges, including unreliable electricity, limited paved roads, and gaps in water and health services. It has also experienced periods of insecurity and displacement linked to broader regional conflicts.

Transport links include regional roads connecting to Kinshasa and other cities, and a small airport serving domestic flights.