Abstract: Based on the stratigraphic sequence and structural characteristics, hydrocarbon accumulation conditions and models as well as main controlling factors of the Congo Basin were studied. The Congo Basin is a depression basin formed due to thermal events and remobilization of removable basement after the Neoproterozoic Kilaran orogenic movement. There are multiple sets of stratigraphic units with hydrocarbon generation potentials in the Congo Basin, among which the Silurian-Devonian Aruwimi Group Alolo Formation shale has the greatest hydrocarbon generation potential. The reservoirs of the Congo Basin include Mesoproterozoic stromatolite reef limestone, Cambrian-Ordovician Bobwamboli Group conglomerate and glutenite, Silurian-Devonian Aruwimi Group Mamungi Formation, Galamboge Formation and Banalia Ark Formation sandstone, Upper Carboniferous-Lower Jurassic Lower Lukuga Group, Upper Lukuga Group and Haute Leuki Group sandstone and glutenite, Upper Jurassic-Lower Cretaceous Stanley Ville Group deltic and channel sandstone, and Middle Cretaceous Loia Formation fluvial-shallow lake facies sheet sand. Syn-rift cap rock is typically local cap rock with limited lateral extension and abrupt change in physical properties. Post-rift cap rock is typically regional cap rock. Preservation condition is the main controlling factor for hydrocarbon accumulation.