The Story of Congolese Seafarers
A HIDDEN MARITIME HERITAGE
Congolese seafarers have been part of international shipping since its early days. Many sailed between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Belgium. Their contribution to maritime history deserves full recognition as part of both Belgian and Congolese heritage.
THE CONGOLESE MARITIME HERITAGE VZW
Congolese Maritime Heritage (CMH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the history and maritime heritage of Congolese seafarers.
Through historical sources, stories and personal testimonies, CMH documents and traces this heritage while highlighting its relevance and impact today.
ANTWERP MONUMENT DAY 2026
THE SEAFARER COMMUNITY
CMH works closely with the people whose stories and experiences are part of this heritage. Their knowledge, memories, and perspectives help shape how this history is understood, preserved and shared.
At the same time, these stories reach beyond the community in which they are rooted. The history of Congolese seafarers is part of a wider maritime history. One that connects people, places and generations across borders.
FEATURED IN GAZET VAN ANTWERPEN
" The Congolese seafarers who came to Antwerp to study were among the pioneers of what would become the Congolese community in the city. We seek to reconstruct and document their life stories, preserving their historical legacy and passing their experiences on to future generations."
www.gva.be/regio/antwerpen/regio-antwerpen/antwerpen/borgerhout/antwerpse-zussen-charlotte-en-isabelle-mbuyi-onderzoeken-onbekende-geschiedenis-van-congolese-zeevaarders/162817467.html
SHARE YOUR STORY
In collaboration with various partners, we are reconstructing the history of Congolese seafarers.
Did your father, grandfather, uncle or another family member work as a seafarer? Perhaps you still have photographs, documents, memories or stories from that time.
We would love to hear from you. Please feel free to get in touch.
Every story adds another piece to this shared history.
CONTACT
Congolese Maritime Heritage
Antwerp
info@congolesemaritimeheritage.com
