A Chinese researcher has accurately identified the true source of the Congo River, Africa’s second-longest river, utilizing advanced satellite remote-sensing technology.
Dr. Liu Shaochuang, a researcher from the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, employed satellite imagery and conducted two field investigations to pinpoint the river’s origin. His findings place the source at 31.22 degrees east longitude and 9.19 degrees south latitude, at an elevation of 1,771 meters. This precise measurement extends the Congo River’s length to 5,260 kilometers, surpassing previous estimates that ranged between 4,320 and 4,700 kilometers.
Historically, the Chambeshi River in Zambia was considered the Congo’s uppermost source. However, discrepancies in documented lengths and source locations persisted due to varying methodologies and limited technology. Dr. Liu’s approach, combining satellite data with on-site verification, offers a more accurate assessment of the river’s dimensions.
“Different literature often cites conflicting lengths for the same river, sometimes differing by hundreds or even thousands of kilometers,” Dr. Liu noted. “With advancing technology, we must apply modern standards to redefine these sources and update river length data.”
Dr. Liu’s work aligns with the international principle of identifying a river’s source as the farthest tributary with perennial flow. His methodology has been applied to over 20 major rivers worldwide, including the Yangtze, Yellow, Nile, and Amazon rivers.
The Congo River, rich in water resources, plays a vital role in the livelihoods of millions across Central Africa. Accurate mapping of its source and length is crucial for environmental management, infrastructure development, and regional planning. This discovery underscores the potential of international scientific collaboration and technological innovation in enhancing our understanding of Africa’s natural landscapes.
