Country Profile: Central African Republic
The Central African Republic (CAR) is a landlocked country located at the heart of Africa, characterized by a diverse geography that includes vast plateaus and rivers. With a population estimated at approximately 5.65 million people in 2024, the nation is marked by a mixture of ethnic and linguistic groups. Economically, CAR is rich in natural resources such as diamonds, gold, and timber but struggles with extreme poverty and political instability. The governance structure is a presidential republic, currently headed by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who has been in office since 2016.
Geography
The Central African Republic is positioned in the center of the African continent, bordered by five countries. Despite being landlocked, the nation features a diverse terrain of plateaus and scattered hills, contributing to its tropical climate characterized by hot, dry winters and wet, hot summers.
- Area: 622,984 sq km, slightly smaller than Texas.
- Natural resources: Includes diamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil, and hydropower.
- Climate: Tropical; hot, dry winters; mild to hot, wet summers.
- Major rivers: The Oubangui River, shared with neighboring countries, is a key waterway.
People and Society
The population of the Central African Republic in 2024 is estimated at 5,650,957, with a youthful median age of 20.4 years. Ethnic diversity is prominent, with the Baya and Banda groups being the largest among many others. The country has a notable Christian majority, with significant Muslim populations as well.
- Languages: French (official), Sangho (national language).
- Religious composition: Roman Catholic 34.6%, Protestant 15.7%, Muslim 13.8%.
- Urbanization: 43.6% of the population lives in urban areas as of 2023.
- Literacy rate: Only 42.4% of the population is literate.
Economy
The Central African Republic's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, contributing around 32.5% of the GDP in 2024. Despite its rich natural resources, the country faces extreme poverty and a challenging economic environment exacerbated by political instability.
- GDP (PPP): $5.926 billion (2024 est.).
- GDP per capita: Estimated at $1,100 (2024).
- Unemployment rate: 5.9% (2024 est.)
- Population below poverty line: 68.8% (2021 est.).
Government
The CAR operates as a presidential republic. The recent constitutional changes approved in July 2023 have provided a framework for extending presidential terms, presenting implications for future governance.
- Capital: Bangui.
- Current President: Faustin-Archange Touadéra (since March 30, 2016).
- Administrative divisions: 14 prefectures.
- Suffrage age: Universal at 18 years.
Military and Security
The Central African Armed Forces (FACA) are primarily focused on internal security amid ongoing conflicts with various armed groups. The government has received substantial foreign military assistance to bolster its defenses.
- Military Expenditures: 2.5% of GDP (2024 est.).
- Active personnel: Estimated 10,000-15,000 (2025).
- UN Peacekeeping Mission: MINUSCA has been operational since 2014 to support stabilization.
Energy
Energy access in the Central African Republic is markedly low, with only 15.7% of the total population having electricity access as of 2022. The majority of the country's electricity generation comes from hydroelectric sources.
- Installed generating capacity: 63,000 kW (2023 est.).
- Electricity consumption: 132.105 million kWh (2023 est.).
- Hydroelectricity's share: 99.2% of total installed capacity (2023).
Environment
Environmental issues in CAR include deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution, exacerbated by practices such as poaching. The country is party to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at protecting its natural resources.
- Forested area: 35.7% of land (2022 est.).
- Water withdrawal: 60 million cubic meters (municipal, 2020 est.).
- Air pollution: Particulate matter emissions at 27.2 micrograms/m³ (2019 est.).
Transportation
The Central African Republic has 43 airports, with limited infrastructure beyond this. The country's transportation network is hampered by years of conflict and underdevelopment.
Communications
Telecommunications in CAR are limited, with a very low internet penetration rate. Fixed telephone lines are almost absent, but mobile subscriptions are gradually increasing.
- Mobile subscriptions: Approximately 1.83 million (2021 est.).
- Internet users: 8% of the population (2019 est.).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,650,957 | Estimate for 2024 |
| Area | 622,984 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $5.926 billion | Estimate for 2024 |
| GDP per capita | $1,100 | Estimate for 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | Estimate for 2024 |
| Electricity access | 15.7% | Percentage of total population (2022 est.) |
| Forested area | 35.7% | Percentage of land (2022 est.) |
| Military expenditure | 2.5% of GDP | Estimate for 2024 |
| Life expectancy at birth | 56.4 years | Estimate for 2024 |
| Birth rate | 31.9 births/1,000 population | Estimate for 2024 |
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