Kolwezi, the capital of Lualaba Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a prominent mining city situated west of Likasi. Established in 1938 by the Union Minière, it has evolved into a major center for copper and cobalt extraction, contributing significantly to the national economy. The city is accessible via the Transafrican Highway 9 and Kolwezi Airport, which lies approximately 6 kilometers south of the city center. Kolwezi's population has grown rapidly in recent years, reflecting its economic importance.