Kong is in the sub-Saharan Sahel–tropical Savanna belt biogeography region, of grasslands with trees, such as the baobab (Adansonia digitata), shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) and other species.

[3] These traders, of Soninke Wangara heritage, founded a series of towns along the trade route linking the Manding region to Hausaland, including Kong, Bondoukou, Bouna, and Begho.

[4] The Juula brought with them their trading skills and connections, and transformed Kong into an international market for the exchange of northern desert goods, such as salt and cloth, and southern forest exports such as cola nuts, gold, and slaves.

As Kong grew prosperous from trade its early rulers from the Taraweré clan combined Juula and Senufo traditions, and extended their authority over the surrounding region.

[6] The French, by that point the dominant power in the coastal region to the south, sought to secure the city by putting together a column led by Col. Monteil in August 1894, but it did not leave Grand Bassam, however, until February 1895.

[8] Toure accorded the city numerous privileges, but the local merchants' commerce with the coast, dominated by the French, slowed with their absorption into the Wassoulou empire.