Both European colonies, Congo and Kenya, beyond their geographical proximity, share several points in common. In culture, in food, in music, but also in folklore, the two countries are similar and share many points in common.

In this article we come back with you to what makes the two countries similar and even countries that can be confused.

To do this, we will see with you a list of 10 common points that you will encounter in both countries so that you can walk there as if in one place.

1-Food

While each region has its own specialties, luxury restaurants in the Congo and Kenya are more or less the same.The most popular dishes are European specialties: steak frites, roast beef, roast pork, roast chicken… On the list of dishes to enjoy, you’ll also find dishes of Muslim, Indian and Chinese origins in some restaurants.

2- On the radio

You’ll hear the same style of music on the radio: Afro-tinged, danceable songs. You’ll be able to sway your hips in the same way in Congo and Kenya. RFI’s 105.0 and 89.9 channels broadcast news about the region and the two countries, respectively. Radio is a much-listened-to communication network in the region, and punctuates the lives of Congolese and Kenyans alike.

3-Parties

For the holidays we tell you honestly, the calendar of the French-speaking world, the commonwealth, the calendar of Muslim holidays, and the Christian calendar are those which punctuate the major stops and celebrations. The parties there are very atmospheric and very popular, you meet all types of people there to dance, to hug, to shout, and to sing.

4-Women

If a European adage says that African women all look alike, we’re not about to contradict it. In fact, both men and women have similar faces. Between the Congo and Kenya, you’ll find the same types of women. However, one extremely important detail: the curves, contours, the lines, and curves of the women change depending on who you meet.

5-The men

Gathered around the values of strength, power and respect, the men of Congo and Kenya are similar. They have the same respect for nature and for living things, even if differences can be observed in the traditional customs practiced. They also share a zen-like attitude in the face of adversity, and have the same sensitivity to art.

6-Flag

The flags of both countries are rectangular in shape, and have red in common. It’s a color that symbolizes blood and tribe, strong values in both Congo and Kenya.

7-Roads

As in many African countries, driving is on the left-hand side of the road in both countries. On the roads, too, you’ll encounter the same kind of landscape typical of sub-Saharan countries. Roads are divided into asphalt and dirt roads, all passable by car or 4×4.

8-Sympathy

In both Congo and Kenya you’ll find a cheerful, welcoming population. To put it simply, smiles and humor are very common in both countries. Hospitality in Congo and Kenya is singularly warm and welcoming. Reflecting the climate, the people you’ll meet are enthusiastic, affectionate and friendly. Allow yourself to chat with one or more of the people you’ll meet on the spot, and you’ll notice the typical friendliness in your exchanges. We have no complaints about the warmth and welcome of the people who live in Congo and Kenya, so we give them both 10/10 for friendliness and hospitality.

9-The animals

African elephants, leopards and many other animals can be found in Congo and Kenya. These animals live in sub-Saharan Africa, and can be seen in several regions. In addition to these shared animals, both countries have their own endemic animals. In Congo: the gorilla, the okapi (same name as the French clothing brand okapie), the bonobo, and the congo peacock. In Kenya: the cheetah, the wild dog, the Grevy’s zebra and the giraffe.

10-Flora and landscape

Although each region has its own endemic species, Congo and Kenya are very close in terms of geographical scenery. 2,454 km separate the two countries, and their physical, human and economic geography is very similar. The climate is almost identical, with some differences linked to the humidity of certain regions, notably Congo, which has the Congo River at its center, and Kenya, which has Lake Kampala to the south.

11- Ease of travel

An eleventh gift – that’s the way it is with us – both countries are very easy to travel to. Several tourist agencies operate here, enabling travelers from all over the world to reach their lands. What’s more, the destinations are among the countries served by explurt, so if you’d like to travel there, you’re welcome to contact us.