Also known as Congo-Brazzaville or simply the Congo, the Republic of Congo is a west central African country that borders the South Atlantic Ocean between Angola and Gabon. It achieved independence from France in 1960.

The Republic of the Congo is one of many African countries experiencing continued political unrest and uncertainty. President Denis Sassou-Nguesso led the country from the first time he took over during a 1979 coup to 1992 elections, which he lost. He was back in power in 1997, however, after a violent civil war broke out and his attempt to recover the presidency was bolstered by Angolan troops.

• Wikipedia: Geography of the Republic of the Congo

• CIA World Factbook: Republic of the Congo Geography

• The Business Travel Report: Republic of the Congo Fact File

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• Wikipedia: Nkayi