Overview of South Africa

Profile

The Republic of South Africa possesses abundant mineral resources including gold, diamonds, and platinum, along with an advanced industrial base, leading the continental economy as Africa's only G20 member. Since democratization in 1994, the country has overcome apartheid and embraced multiethnic coexistence and reconciliation as national principles, while still facing challenges such as unemployment, inequality, security, and infectious diseases. The temperate coastal climate, diverse natural landscapes, safari experiences, and wine culture attract travelers from around the world.

Official name: Republic of South Africa
Common name: South Africa
Numeric code: 710
Alpha-3 code: ZAF
Alpha-2 code: ZA
Population: Approximately 61 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 49
Primary languages: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Northern Sotho, Sotho, Tswana, Swazi, Southern Ndebele, Tsonga, Venda
Major religions: Christianity, African Traditional Religion, Islam
National anthem: Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika / Die Stem van Suid-Afrika (National Anthem of South Africa)
Calling code: +27
Internet TLD: .za

History

After experiencing colonialism and racial segregation, universal suffrage for all races was achieved in 1994, transforming into a democratic nation.

Following Portuguese navigator's arrival at the Cape of Good Hope in the late 15th century, Cape Colony developed as a supply port for the Dutch East India Company. In the 19th century, conflict between Britain and Boers escalated into the Boer Wars, leading to the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910. Apartheid policies were institutionalized from 1948, resulting in international isolation, but the De Klerk administration abolished segregation laws after 1990. In 1994, Nelson Mandela became president, marking a fresh start as a constitutional democratic nation.

Geography & climate

The Highveld plateau and Drakensberg Mountains, arid Karoo, and long coastlines facing two oceans form complex ecosystems.

Diverse from subtropical steppe to Mediterranean and temperate highland

Area: Africa / 1221037 km²
Capital: Pretoria (Administrative Capital)
Largest city: Johannesburg
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho

Natural resources

Gold, Platinum, Diamonds, Chromium, Manganese, Coal, Iron ore, Uranium, Natural gas, Rare earths, Abundant sunlight, Tourism resources, Agricultural land, Marine fisheries, Shale gas, Wind power, Fynbos landscape plants, Rooibos, Aloe

Politics

Government: Constitutional republic (presidential system with parliamentary cabinet)

Economy

Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)

GDP (nominal): 4050 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 14500 hundred million international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Northern Sotho, Sotho, Tswana, Swazi, Southern Ndebele, Tsonga, Venda

Time zone: South African Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho, Tswana, Afrikaner, British, Coloured, Indian, Venda

Life expectancy

Approximately 64 years (2023)

Literacy rate

87% (2020 estimate)

National sports

Rugby, Soccer, Cricket, Golf, Athletics, Surfing, Field Hockey