Congolese Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the largest countries in Africa, crossed by the mighty Congo River and covered by vast rainforests. French is the official language, and Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo and Tshiluba are widely spoken. Many Congolese people came to Britain seeking safety, and others as students and professionals.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 1,176 Birmingham residents described their ethnic group as Congolese, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and 221 residents gave Lingala as their main language. Main language figures leave out the many bilingual residents who use English day to day, so the number who speak the language at home is higher still.

Working for Birmingham

Congolese residents work in healthcare, social care, cleaning, transport, security and education, and many are training and studying to build new careers. Their language skills in French, Lingala and Swahili are valued in interpreting and community services, and Congolese businesses serve the community across the city.

Birmingham grew rich as the city of a thousand trades, and that spirit of making and doing is still strong. Today the trades sit alongside healthcare, education, finance, law, logistics and technology. The Congolese community brings energy to that mix, from people starting small businesses to those caring for patients, teaching in classrooms and keeping homes and workplaces in good repair.

Culture and community life

Congolese rumba, recognised by UNESCO, is one of the most influential musical styles in Africa, and music and dance are at the heart of every celebration. Churches are central to community life, and dishes such as pondu, cassava leaves, and moambe chicken are shared with family and friends.

Like so many of the communities that make up modern Birmingham, the Congolese community shows how a city can be home to many cultures at once. Its members are proud of where they come from, and just as proud to be Brummies.