Kasai

Kasai is the central region of Democratic Republic of the Congo, known mostly for its diamond mines. Since 2016, the region has been destabilized by the violent Kamuina Nsapu conflict.

Cities

• 1 Ilebo
• 2 Kananga
• 3 Mbuji-Mayi
• 4 Mwene-Ditu
• 5 Tshikapa

Understand

Kasai is known for diamond mines and the Kasai River.

Get in

There is one major airport in the region, Mbuji Mayi Airport (MJM  ^IATA). While mainly a domestic airport, there are a small number of international flights from other African cities. A railway runs between Lubumbashi and Ilebo. As of 2021, there are a passenger trains from Lubumbashi as far as Mwene-Ditu with about 2-3 departures per month. Journey time for the full journey is scheduled to about 48 hours, but delays and breakdowns are common.

Kasai is also readily accessible by train. DR Congo's national railway company, the SNCC, operates services from Kinshasa and Lubumbashi to several cities in the region.

Get around

Roads are generally in bad shape, with many sections being almost impassable, especially during the rainy season.

Stay safe

Travel to Kasai is strongly discouraged. If you are employed in the area, your company will provide security. Otherwise don't go.