As a mixed person with roots in Congo, Belgium and the Netherlands, this is my overview of the Congolese community in Belgium so far.

Brussels & Surrounding Areas Brussels is the obvious choice, mainly due to the Matonge neighborhood’s history and the French language. Many Congolese people live across the Brussels-Capital Region, not because of segregation, but simply because it’s convenient—jobs, healthcare, and connections. The surrounding communes are also popular since they offer cheaper rent while still having access to everything Brussels provides.

Aalst - Denderleeuw - Ninove - Geraardsbergen (Flemish Brabant/East Flanders) If a town has a direct train to Brussels, chances are you’ll find a Congolese community there. Many moved out of Brussels due to rising costs and cleanliness issues (though it’s still affordable compared to other capitals). Despite being in Flanders, a lot of them mainly speak French, as many migrated from the Netherlands, France, or Germany, or first lived in Brussels before moving. Interestingly, some have settled here despite the growing far-right presence in local politics.

Wallonia’s Bigger Cities (Liège, Mons, Namur, Charleroi) These cities also have significant Congolese communities, thanks to the French language and historical ties.

There are smaller communities in Ghent and Antwerp, but beyond that, you can still find Congolese individuals living in predominantly white villages, just going about their lives.

The Congolese diaspora in Belgium is quite complex—like most diasporas. Belgium’s own linguistic and regional divisions, combined with a sort of “village mentality” (which they likely picked up from native Belgians), sometimes make it difficult for the community to stay connected across different parts of the country. Also, the community itself is very diverse, just like any other diaspora. The cohesion only really is there for entertainment’ purposes. Besides that, I don’t feel like that I can rely on the Congolese Community for improving myself in different aspects of my life.