Haut-Lomami: Between Savannas and Rivers

Located in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haut-Lomami is a province of wide-open savannas, fertile agricultural lands, and important river systems. Created in 2015 from the former Katanga Province, Haut-Lomami takes its name from the upper reaches of the Lomami River, one of the major tributaries of the Congo River.

The provincial capital, Kamina, is one of the most important transportation hubs in southeastern Congo. Historically, Kamina developed as a major railway center and military base, connecting different parts of the country through its strategic location. Today, it remains a key center for trade and administration.

Unlike the dense rainforests of central Congo, Haut-Lomami is characterized by vast savannas, grasslands, and woodland landscapes. These environments support both agriculture and livestock farming, which form the backbone of the provincial economy. Farmers cultivate maize, cassava, beans, and groundnuts, while cattle raising is an important activity in several areas.

The province is also rich in mineral resources, including deposits of copper and other minerals that contribute to the wider economic importance of the Katanga region. However, agriculture remains the primary source of income for much of the population.

Haut-Lomami is home to diverse communities and cultures, reflecting its position at the crossroads of central and southern Congo. Traditional customs, music, and local markets remain central to everyday life throughout the province.

Quick Facts

  • Capital: Kamina
  • Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Established: 2015
  • Named after: The Lomami River
  • Main industries: Agriculture, livestock farming, mining, and trade
  • Key city: Kamina

Haut-Lomami is a province where rivers, railways, and savannas come together. From the historic rail hub of Kamina to the vast landscapes that stretch across southeastern Congo, it represents an important link between the country’s agricultural heartland and its mineral-rich south.