Trying to figure out if buses and metros in Congo take cards or if Ill need small cash. Any recent experiences?
No, you won't be able to use cards on public transit. The bus system is entirely cash-based, and there is no metro. You will need to pay the driver or a fare collector directly in local currency. Even in the capital, Brazzaville, credit card acceptance is very limited. It's best to have a good stash of small bills for all your transport needs.
Your best bet is to carry a good amount of small bills. The public transportation system in Congo is not set up to take card payments. The main ways to get around are via public buses or taxis, both of which require cash. You can withdraw CFA francs from a bank like Ecobank, but make sure to break down large bills at a shop or restaurant beforehand.
Don't even think about using a card on a bus here. I was just in Brazzaville, and everything is cash. The bus system is rudimentary and there are no card readers. You just pay the fare directly to the driver. It's a good idea to have small CFA franc bills on hand, as drivers often don't have change for large notes.
You will need small cash for all public transport. There is no metro system, and buses are generally a cash-only affair. The main way to get around cities like Brazzaville is by bus or shared taxi, and the drivers will only accept cash in the local currency, the Central African CFA franc. Card use is very limited, even in larger hotels, so you should always have cash on hand for travel.