Lubumbashi, formerly known as Élisabethville or Elisabethstad, is a city in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and is the capital and largest city of the Haut-Katanga province. It is the second-largest city in the country, after the capital, Kinshasa, and is a major industrial, commercial, and cultural center for the DRC. The predominant language spoken in Lubumbashi is Swahili, with French being used as the official language of government and education, reflecting the country's colonial history under Belgium. Other local languages such as Lingala, Kikongo, and Tshiluba are also spoken by different ethnic groups residing in the area. Geographically, Lubumbashi is situated on the Katanga Plateau at an elevation of about 1,208 meters (3,963 feet). The city enjoys a relatively mild climate with a dry season and a wet season. Its location near the Zambian border has made it an important hub for trade and transport in the region. Historically, the area of Lubumbashi has been inhabited by various Bantu peoples. The city itself was founded by Belgian colonists in 1910 as a mining settlement due to the discovery of vast mineral riches in Katanga, including copper and cobalt. The city's growth was primarily driven by the exploitation of these resources, and it became the center of the Union Minière du Haut Katanga, which was a major mining company during the colonial era. The city played a crucial role during the struggle for independence and has since been at the center of political and ethnic strife, especially during the secessionist crisis of Katanga in the early 1960s. Following independence in 1960, it has experienced periods of economic fluctuation closely tied to the global prices of its primary mineral exports. Culturally, Lubumbashi is known for its vibrant artistic scenes, including music, dance, and painting. The city hosts the annual National Art Biennale, showcasing works from across the Congo, as well as international artists. Lubumbashi is also the site of various cultural institutions, including the French Cultural Center and Lubumbashi University, which contribute to the city’s intellectual and artistic life. Demographically, Lubumbashi is home to a diverse population, reflecting the ethnic mosaic of the larger Haut-Katanga region. This diversity has given rise to a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that permeate everyday life in the city. The area surrounding Lubumbashi is still a major source of minerals, and the city's economy is largely dependent on mining, with several large-scale mining operations in the vicinity. It also serves as a key logistical and supply node for the mining industry in the broader Katanga region. Despite its wealth in natural resources, Lubumbashi faces numerous challenges, including infrastructure deficits, political instability, and social issues such as poverty and inadequate healthcare. However, initiatives to improve governance, attract foreign investment, and develop the local economy are ongoing, aimed at ensuring a more sustainable development trajectory for Lubumbashi and its inhabitants. In recent years, the city has seen improvements in educational facilities, an increase in international investment, and expansions in the service sector, signaling a slow but steady progression towards greater economic diversity and stability.