The Central African Republic (CAR) is a country surrounded by six neighboring countries and located in the heart of Africa.
The Central African Republic is bordered by Sudan to the east, South Sudan to the southeast, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, the Republic of Congo to the southwest, Chad to the north, and Cameroon to the west.
- The Central African Republic is the 44th largest country in the world, with an area of 622,984 square kilometers (240,535 sq mi).
- It has a population of approximately 5.457 million people as of 2021 according to the World Bank.
- It was known as the Central African Empire from 1976 to 1979.
- French and Sango are the official languages of the Central African Republic.
HISTORY
On August 13, 1960, the Central African Republic gained its independence from France. ‘Ubangi-Sari”, a name derived from the Ubangi and Chari rivers was the name of the country during the colonial era.
Since its independence from France, the landlocked country has experienced mixed social and political changes with periods of coups and conflicts that have affected the country’s development.
The Central African Republic is famous for having many natural resources, from diamonds, gold and oil to uranium.
CIVILIZATION
The country has many ethnic groups, including the Baya, Banda, Sara, Gbaya and Mandjia.
In the Central African Republic, there are more than 80 different ethnic groups, each with its own language.
Roman Catholics make up about 25% of the population, while Protestants make up about 25%.
Their famous food is Sokotasa, a dish of corn, potatoes, lima beans, corn beef, pepper, cured pork and okra.
ECONOMY
Despite possessing significant natural mineral resources, including diamonds, gold, timber, oil and uranium, the nation is considered one of the poorest countries in the world.
According to USAID, more than 60 percent of its population lives in poverty.
The country has been in turmoil for years, experiencing repeated military coups and conflicts.
CAR is an independent nation with a diverse population.