2,745,000 (1997).

8.0 per sq km.

Brazzaville

596,200 (1984).

Congo is situated in Africa, bounded to the north by Cameroon and the Central African Republic, to the south and east by the Democratic Republic of Congo, to the southwest by the Atlantic and to the west by Gabon. Vast areas are swamps, grassland or thick forests with rivers being virtually the only means of internal travel. The vast River Congo and its major tributaries form most of the country's border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, drawing much of its water from the swamplands in the north of the country. The narrow sandy coastal plain is broken by lagoons behind which rise the Mayombe Mountains. Most of the population lives in the south of the country.

Republic. Gained independence from France in 1960. Head of State and Government: President Denis Sassou-Nguesso since 1997.

The official language is French. Other major languages are Lingala, Munukutuba and Kikongo. English is spoken very little.

The majority is Animist, with 45% Roman Catholic. There are small Protestant and Muslim minorities.

GMT + 1.

220 volts AC, 50Hz.