Overview of Central African Republic

Profile

The Central African Republic is a landlocked country surrounded by six nations: Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, and Cameroon. Most of the land consists of plateau-like savanna and tropical rainforest. While producing mineral resources such as diamonds, gold, and uranium, and valuable timber like teak and mahogany, economic development is significantly delayed due to ongoing political instability and armed faction conflicts. Population is about 5.6 million, official languages are French and Sango, and diverse ethnic groups coexist.

Official name: Central African Republic
Common name: Central African Republic
Numeric code: 140
Alpha-3 code: CAF
Alpha-2 code: CF
Population: Approximately 5.6 million (2023 estimate) (2023)
Population density: Approximately 9 people/km2
Primary languages: French, Sango
Major religions: Christianity, Islam, Traditional religions
National anthem: La Renaissance (Renaissance)
Calling code: +236
Internet TLD: .cf

History

After independence from France in 1960, coups and civil war occurred repeatedly, with peace process ongoing.

After independence, the Dacko regime became a one-party dictatorship, followed by Bokassa's seizure of power in a 1965 coup, who declared himself emperor in 1976. In 1979, France intervened to restore the republic, but coups continued thereafter. The 2003 collapse of the Bozizé regime and 2013 capital seizure by Islamic coalition Séléka intensified civil war, leading to anarchy from clashes with Christian militia Anti-balaka. President Touadéra assumed office in 2016, completing civilian transition, but sporadic fighting with armed groups continues in various regions.

Geography & climate

Land mostly consists of plateau at 500-700m elevation, transitioning from dry Sahel grassland in the north to Congo Basin tropical rainforest in the south.

Mix of tropical savanna climate (Aw) and tropical rainforest climate (Am)

Area: Africa / 622984 km²
Capital: Bangui
Largest city: Bangui
Coastal status: No
Bordering countries: Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Cameroon

Natural resources

Diamonds, Gold, Uranium, Timber (Sapele, Okoume), Hydropower, Limestone, Iron ore, Petroleum (undeveloped), Copper, Manganese

Politics

Government: Republic (Presidential system)

Economy

Currency: CFA Franc (BEAC) (XAF)

GDP (nominal): 2.3 billion USD (2022)

GDP (PPP): 5.5 billion USD (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: French, Sango

Time zone: West Africa Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Baya, Banda, Mandjia, Mbum, Sara, Azande, Fulani, Mbaka

Life expectancy

55.5 years (2022)

Literacy rate

36.8% (2018 estimate)

National sports

Football, Basketball, Athletics, Wrestling, Traditional martial arts (Ngoma)