Pool Malebo, Lake between Kinshasa and Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Republic of the Congo
Pool Malebo is a wide body of water between Kinshasa and Brazzaville where the Congo River spreads out into a large expanse. This water body forms the natural border between two nations and creates an important hub in the river transport system.
The lake was mapped by Henry Morton Stanley, a British explorer, in the late 19th century, who gave it the colonial name Stanley Pool. This name remained during the colonial period until it was later renamed to its current designation.
Fishing communities on both sides depend on these waters for their livelihood, maintaining customs that have been passed down for generations.
The water body is accessible from the shore at several points, particularly from the waterfront areas of both cities. The best conditions for viewing and activity occur during the drier seasons.
The waters hold more than 200 fish species, including over 40 types of Mormyrids known for their electrical sensing abilities. This fish diversity makes the lake an important ecosystem for researchers and nature observers.
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