Current Weather in MbujiMayi

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there exists a multifaceted climate culture that capitalizes on the characteristics of the equatorial region, including a tropical climate, an associated agricultural and lifestyle, and responses to recent climate change.

Lifestyle Culture Rooted in Tropical Climate

Periodic Life Rhythm of Rainy and Dry Seasons

• In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there are clear rainy and dry seasons, and in many regions, this climate cycle influences the timing of agriculture and festivals.
• Agricultural activities, such as sowing and harvesting, are centered around the rainy season, while the dry season is utilized for preservation and processing.

Connection Between Climate and Agricultural Calendar

• In some regions, each tribe has its own traditional agricultural calendar, adjusting work based on observations of climate change.
• Folklore and empirical knowledge regarding the weather are passed down as local wisdom.

Practical Concern for Weather

Relationship Between Daily Weather and Crops

• In areas focused on small-scale agriculture, the presence or absence of rainfall directly correlates with harvest, leading to very high public interest in weather.
• Based on the movement of clouds and humidity sensations, there are individuals with unique weather observation skills.

Informal Weather Forecasting and Wisdom

• In many rural areas, there is a tendency to prioritize experience and advice from local elders over meteorological agency data.
• Each village may have a "weather-reading elder" who predicts the weather, influencing agricultural work and schedules.

Coexistence with Nature and Spiritual Awareness

Beliefs in Deities and Weather

• In some areas, weather is seen as an expression of the anger or joy of spirits, with ceremonies for praying for bountiful harvests and rain still being practiced.
• Climate is perceived as a sacred force that regulates the relationship between humans and nature.

Relationship Between Traditional Rituals and Seasons

• Cultural events closely linked to the seasons, such as harvest festivals celebrating the arrival of the rainy season and coming-of-age rituals held during the dry season, exist throughout various regions.

Urbanization and Changes in Weather Awareness

Changes in Weather Perception in the Capital Kinshasa

• In urban areas, the use of weather apps and social media to check rain cloud information is spreading, especially among the younger population.
• On the other hand, vulnerability to urban flooding due to inadequate infrastructure is becoming apparent, and there is a growing demand for awareness regarding disaster prevention.

Concerns About Climate Change and Environmental Issues

• Recent abnormal weather (heavy rains and high temperatures) and deforestation are beginning to affect agriculture and health, with the term "climate change" starting to be recognized in both urban and rural contexts.

Summary

The climate consciousness in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has developed into diverse cultural forms and wisdom in each region, rooted in a respect for nature and a close connection to daily life. In modern times, the impacts of climate change have led to an intersection of old and new awareness.