Bakuba Kingdom (English)

The Bakuba Kingdom, also known as the Kuba Kingdom, was established in the 16th century in what is today known as the Mweka region of the Kasai Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Bakuba Kingdom, capital city Mushenge, covers an area of 27,400 sq. km, and has a population of over 600,000 inhabitants. The current Bakuba King, Nyimi Kot-a-Mbweeky III, was appointed in 1969. The Prince Regent Jean-Marie Kweke and his brothers are part of the Bakuba Kingdom royal family. The Bakuba Kingdom economy is centered around agriculture, forestry and art. The Bakuba Kingdom is best known internationally for its art (Kuba Art) which is widely recognized as having influenced 19th century European Avant Garde artists such as Matisse and Picasso. Kuba art can be found in museums throughout the world.