In the early hours of September 19, 2002, while the President was in Italy, there was an armed uprising. Troops who were to be demobilised mutinied, launching attacks in several cities. The battle for the main gendarmerie barracks in Abidjan lasted until mid-morning, but by lunchtime the government forces had secured the main city, Abidjan. They had lost control of the north of the. The country was originally known in English as.

Women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Congo is also known for its art. Traditional art includes masks and wooden statues. Notable contemporary artists and fashion designer are Chéri Samba and Odette Krempin.