Subregion: Middle Africa
Central African Republic (CAR) is a country located in Middle Africa. The Capital City is Bangui. The government is a Unitary presidential republic. The official languages of the country are French and Sango. The predominant religion is Christianity. Healthcare in CAR is public however it is mostly non-existent, the majority of the country does not have access to healthcare since there are not enough doctors. The one major hospital in the country is in Bangui. There are no other modern facilities anywhere else in the country. Doctors without Borders and other humanitarian programs provide minimal services to the residents. CAR does not have widespread internet service. As of 2020, only 10% of the population has access to the internet.
Safety:
The Central African Republic (CAR) has experienced significant safety concerns in recent years due to ongoing conflict and violence. The country has been in a state of crisis since 2013 when a coup ousted the government and sparked sectarian violence between Muslim rebels and Christian militias. The violence has led to widespread displacement, with over 600,000 people internally displaced and another 600,000 refugees in neighboring countries. The United Nations has described the situation in CAR as one of the world's most neglected humanitarian crises. The safety concerns in CAR include armed attacks, robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping. The country has a high level of crime, particularly in the capital city of Bangui. There is also a risk of landmines in certain areas, particularly in the east and north of the country. The security situation in CAR remains fragile, and travelers should exercise caution at all times. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory, recommending that U.S. citizens not travel to CAR due to crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping. It is recommended that you stay informed of the situation, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and use a trusted local guide. It is also recommended that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. The road conditions in CAR are generally poor, with many roads unpaved and poorly maintained. In some areas, roads may be impassable during the rainy season. It is recommended to travel by four-wheel drive vehicles and to hire a local driver who is familiar with the roads and conditions. It is also important to carry spare tires, tools, and other necessary equipment, as breakdowns are common.
Cultural Customs:
The country is rich in cultural diversity with over 80 ethnic groups, each with its unique customs and traditions. Greetings are an essential part of the culture in the Central African Republic. People often greet each other with a handshake or by placing their right hand over their left forearm. Music and dance play a significant role in the cultural life of the Central African Republic. The country is home to several traditional dances such as the Bokilo, Banda, and the Bouanda. The traditional music of the Central African Republic is characterized by the use of drums, flutes, and other percussion instruments. Family and community are highly valued in the Central African Republic. The extended family system is prevalent, and people often prioritize the needs of their families and communities above their individual needs. Religion plays a significant role in the lives of many Central Africans. Christianity and Islam are the two major religions in the country, with Christianity being the most dominant. The cuisine of the Central African Republic is diverse and heavily influenced by French, Arabic, and African cuisines. Some of the popular dishes include cassava, plantains, yams, peanuts, and meat dishes. The majority of meals are vegetarian as meat is generally considered a sign of wealth. Most locals eat with their hands, travelers are expected to do so as well. Traditional clothing is still prevalent in the Central African Republic, with each ethnic group having its unique style. Men often wear brightly colored robes or shirts, while women wear brightly colored dresses or skirts. Local dress is informal except in Muslim areas, where the dress is modest. The Central African Republic is renowned for its arts and crafts, with traditional crafts such as pottery, basket weaving, and woodcarving being popular among many communities. Remember to shake hands and eat with your right hand as the left hand is customarily used for the restroom. Women are segregated in some areas of the country.
Geography & Weather:
Central African Republic’s climate is mostly tropical. In the northern part of the country near the Chad and Sudan borders, the climate is semi-arid.
In Birao, in the north, the average temperature ranges from 74 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 74 degrees F and April being the hottest month with a median temperature of 86 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is June - October. The rainiest month is August with an average of 7 inches of rainfall during the month. The sunshine hours are 9 - 10 daily, except in July and August when the rains are the heaviest.
In Ndelé, in the north central area, the average temperature ranges from 76 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is July with a median temperature of 76 degrees F and March being the hottest month with a median temperature of 84 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is May - October. The rainiest month is August with an average of 9 inches of rainfall during the month. The sun shines less here than in the north, usually 7 - 8 hours daily except during the rainy season.
In Bangui, in the south, the average temperature ranges from 78 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is July with a median temperature of 78 degrees F and March being the hottest month with a median temperature of 84 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is March - November. The rainiest month is August with an average of 9 inches of rainfall during the month. The sun shines only about 6 - 7 hours but less in the rainy season.
Economy:
The economy of the CAR is heavily reliant on subsistence agriculture, forestry, and mining, and has been greatly affected by political instability, armed conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The CAR has one of the lowest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in the world, estimated at $422 in 2020, and a high poverty rate of around 70%. Unemployment is also a significant issue, with an estimated unemployment rate of around 20% in 2021. The lack of jobs is particularly acute for young people, with youth unemployment estimated to be as high as 60%. The COVID-19 pandemic has further worsened the economic situation in the CAR, with a decline in economic activity and disruptions to global supply chains. The pandemic has also led to a reduction in foreign aid and investment, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the country. Political instability and armed conflict have also contributed to the economic challenges faced by the CAR. The country has experienced ongoing conflict since 2013, which has resulted in displacement, loss of livelihoods, and economic disruption. The United Nations estimates that more than half of the population in the CAR requires humanitarian assistance. In summary, the economy of the Central African Republic faces significant challenges due to political instability, armed conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have led to high levels of poverty and unemployment, particularly among young people, and have made it difficult for the country to achieve sustained economic growth.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Central African CFA Franc (XAF)
XAF 1.00 = USD .0016
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
4,829,767
Median Age:
17.7
Life Expectancy:
54.36 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? No
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes, only for women that marry Central African natives and do not give up their own nationality.
Naturalization - Central African citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in the Central African Republic for at least five consecutive years, is of good morality, medical certification, criminal history, and proof of investment in property.
Residency Requirements:
Unable to find information online regarding the residence visa.
Reseources:
Banque des États de l'Afrique Centrale - no website
Central African Republic US Embassy
Central African Republic Expat Facebook Group
U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Cameroon
Avenue Rosa Parks
P.O. Box 817
Yaounde, Cameroon
Telephone: +(237) 22220-1500 ext. 4341/4023
Emergencies: +(237) 22220-1500, ext. 4531 or +(237) 22222-25-893
Email: YaoundeACS@state.gov
*US Embassy in Bangui does not offer consular services*