Kongo is simply amazing at cultural victories. +50% Great Artist and Musician points means many more Great Works, and the Kongolese Palace has plenty of space to hold them. Free Apostles means extra relics, assuming you can get some to have the Martyr promotion.

Can Kongo win a religious victory?

Kongo cannot found its own religion, instead receiving all the belief bonuses of the religion that is dominant in a majority of Kongo's cities. ... So while Kongo cannot win a religious victory, it is exceptionally capable of winning culturally.

Can Kongo found a pantheon?

In theory, Kongo can actually found her own pantheon, but this is rather difficult to pull off in practice. ... If you are successful in founding your own pantheon as Kongo, avoid choosing one that relies primarily or solely on Holy Sites for its benefits to work.