What is kivus?

Kivus is a term that is often used to refer to the two connected lakes in the East African Rift that are located between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The two lakes are called Lake Kivu and Lake Edward, and they are part of the Great Rift Valley system which extends from Syria to Mozambique.

Lake Kivu is approximately 2,700 square kilometers in size, making it one of the larger freshwater bodies in Africa. It sits at an elevation of about 1,460 meters above sea level and is surrounded by high mountains. The lake is known for its high concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane gases, which can lead to significant risks if not properly managed.

Lake Edward is slightly smaller than Lake Kivu, with an area of around 2,325 square kilometers. It is located at an elevation of about 912 meters and is fed by the Ishasha River. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including tilapia, catfish, and perch.

Despite the rich natural resources and biodiversity of the Kivus region, it has seen significant conflict and instability throughout its history. Since the late 1990s, the region has been plagued by conflict and violence, including civil war and genocide. Today, the area remains a site of ongoing conflict and political tension.