Mount Mangengenge, Mountain summit near Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mont Mangengenge is a mountain peak in the Crystal Mountains range southeast of Kinshasa, reaching about 718 meters above sea level. It sits south of Ndjili International Airport and forms a distinct landmark in the landscape of the region.
A European explorer named Carl Anton Mense made the first recorded ascent in June 1885, and the peak was called 'pic Mense' for nearly a century afterward. This marked the beginning of documented exploration and Western mapping of the mountain.
The name comes from the Lingala word 'kongenge', meaning 'shining', and older local names included Mabangu or Manguele. Visitors may hear these traditional names from people living nearby, who share the story of how the land has been called over time.
Visitors should follow trails starting from the parish of Sainte Angèle de Mérici, with crucifix sculptures marking the route to the summit. It is best to check conditions beforehand and bring suitable walking gear.
Since September 2019, environmental groups have organized regular cleanup efforts on the mountain, with two to three scheduled cleanup days each year. These ongoing efforts show how the site is maintained by local volunteers who work to keep the environment clean.
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