The Kikongo language is a Bantu language spoken primarily in the western region of Central Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, and Angola. It serves as a lingua franca among various ethnic groups and has several dialects, including Kikongo ya Leta, which is used in official contexts. Kikongo is part of the larger Bantu language family, which includes many languages across Africa. It has a rich oral tradition and is used in cultural expressions such as music and storytelling. The language is also significant in the history of the Kongo Kingdom, which played a crucial role in regional trade and politics.