The DRC is endowed with vast natural-resource wealth. Its economy is slowly recovering after decades of decline. The DRC is Africa’s largest producer of copper. With the installation of a transitional government in 2003 after peace accords, economic conditions slowly began to improve as the state reopened relations with global financial institutions and donors. Reforms were also implemented. The country marked its 12th consecutive year of positive economic expansion in 2014.

Name Democratic Republic of the Congo

Capital Kinshasa

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Languages French, Lingala, Kingwana, Kikongo, Tshiluba

Area 2 344 858 km²

Population 77 433 744 (July 2014 est)

Imports Foodstuffs, mining and other machinery, transport equipment, fuels

Exports Diamonds, gold, copper, cobalt, wood products, crude oil, coffee

Currency Congolese franc

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages