Updates
🌟 August 2026 Issue Published: New research articles now available in our latest journal issue. Discover cutting-edge findings. Read More 📢 Call for Papers: October 2026: Submit your research for peer review. Open access publishing with global visibility. Read More 🚀 Continental Scholarly Publications: Join our new multidisciplinary research journal platform. Publishing excellence since 2024. Read More 🎯 Special Issue: Digital Health: Call for papers on digital health innovations. Submission deadline: September 15 Read More 💼 Early Career Researcher Support: Special mentorship program and reduced fees for PhD candidates and new researchers. Read More 🔬 New Research Areas Open: Now accepting submissions in AI Ethics, Climate Science, and Public Health Innovation. Read More 🌐 Global Academic Network: Connect with researchers from 65+ countries through Continental Scholarly Publications. Read More ⏰ Fast-Track Peer Review: Accelerated review process available. Get decisions within 3 weeks. Read More

Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences Research Journal

Peer-Reviewed Academic Journal
Research Article

EXPLORING THE CULTURAL AND ECOLOGICAL DIMENSIONS OF KASWA HOT SPRINGS IN MOKAMBO CHIEFDOM

Authors & Affiliations
J P K. Mukeba
High Pedagogical Institute of Bunia, Department of Biology-Chemistry, DR Congo
E T Mwamba
National Pedagogical University, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Kinshasa, DR Congo
Published: June 10, 2025
Volume 12, Issue 4 (2024)
Article ID: 885
Peer-Reviewed
Open Access
Abstract

Thermal waters have long held cultural, therapeutic, and ecological significance across civilizations. Defined by their elevated temperature compared to regional groundwater, these waters are often found in geologically active areas. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in the eastern region forming part of the western branch of the African Rift Valley, thermal waters emerge as a result of intense volcanic activity. Despite their abundance and geothermal potential, these resources remain largely underexplored and underutilized. This study focuses on the Kaswa thermal waters located in the Mokambo Chiefdom of Ituri Province, where the hot springs emerge from the Monts-Bleus near Lake Albert in the Albertine Rift. Drawing on both environmental and sociocultural perspectives, the research examines the local community's perceptions, uses, and cultural attributions surrounding the Kaswa hot springs. The study underscores the multifaceted value of these waters—not only as a potential source of geothermal energy and hydrotherapy but also as a site of traditional beliefs and practices. Understanding these perspectives is critical for developing sustainable management strategies that respect both ecological balance and cultural heritage. This research contributes to a broader understanding of how natural resources like thermal waters can serve as intersections of science, culture, and development in African contexts

Full-Text Access

Open-access article — free to read and share.

Publish Your Research in This Journal

Continental Scholarly Publications applies rigorous double-blind peer review to every submission. Our expert editorial board ensures your work meets the highest standards of scholarship before reaching an international readership.

Double-Blind Review Global Indexing Fast Turnaround Open Access DOI Assigned Wide Readership
Submit a Manuscript