Here Are 10 Fascinating Facts About Algeria 

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1. Over Four-Fifths of the Country is Desert

About 80% of Algeria is covered by the Sahara Desert and it has a semi-arid geography, with most of the population living in the fertile north. Also, the country borders other African countries like Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, and Morocco.

2. It Was Formerly Known as Numidia Kingdom

Algeria was known as Numidian Kingdom which was formed in 200 BC. The Kingdom was created from the original Kingdom of Carthage and the people were called Numidian and Imazighen which means ‘free men’.

Meanwhile, the territory was previously colonized by the Romans, and also the French. It gained its independence in 1962 following the movement for independence in 1914.

3. It is Mandatory for men aged 19-30 to Serve in the Military for 12 Months

In Algeria, anyone between the ages of 19-30 must serve in the military for 12 months.

Also, for several years, Algeria has maintained the largest defense budget in Africa.  The country’s defense budget is $10 billion. In addition to its large military budget, the country has over 140,000 active troops and an additional 150,000 reserve troops. The military of Algeria consists of the People’s National Army (ANP), the Algerian National Navy (MRA), the Algerian Air Force (QJJ), and the Territorial Air Defence Forces.

4. English is not Common in Algeria

English language is known to be a global language and is often spoken by other African countries as a second language. However, it is quite the opposite in Algeria. The country speaks three languages with Arabic as the Official language, Berber, and French. The English language in Algeria is mostly taught in schools.

5. The Tallest Minaret in The World is Situated In The County 

Djamaa el Djazair, the Great Mosque of Algiers has the tallest Minaret in the entire world and is located in Algiers. A minaret is a tall slender tower of an Islamic mosque from which the muezzin recites the adhan (call to prayer). The minaret in Algeria stands at a height of 264.3m (867ft) above the city. Moreso it is the tallest building in Africa after the Iconic Tower of Egypt. 

6. It has Seven UNESCO Sites  

UNESCO has preserved seven sites in Algeria due to the conflict and the histories surrounding the sites. The first site, Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad was added to the World Heritage List in 1980. Subsequently, in 1982 Djemila, Timgad, M’zab Valley, Tipasa, and Melika were added to the list. Kasbah of Algiers was also added in 1992.

7. Algeria has a National Animal 

The national animal for Algeria is the Fennec fox or Vulpes zerda. It also serves as the nickname for the Algeria national football team “Les Fennecs”. The creature is known to be the smallest species of fox in the world. It has a small physique with large ears that are up to 6 inches (15.24cm) and often weighs 2.2 to 3.3 pounds.

The fox is usually found in the desert and can adapt to the region due to their batlike ears that emit heat and keep them tepid. Also, their hair keeps them warm during cold periods and from the scorching sun during the daytime.

7. The Algerian Judiciary is Dominated by Women

Interestingly, when it comes to the judiciary in Algeria, it is primarily dominated by women although the country is patriarchal.  

The Algerian judiciary has 70% women lawyers and 60% percent of judges are women. 

Moreover, there are about 30 organizations in Algeria that fight and clamor against women’s oppression in the nation and most of these organizations are led by women. Generally, Algeria has made good progress in the advocacy of women’s rights and is still thriving in making it better.

9. Algeria’s Economy is Reliant on Petroleum

Algeria has a large deposit of crude oil and the country’s economy is reliant on petroleum. Moreover, Algeria has been an OPEC member since 1969 and its crude oil production stands at over 1 million barrels a day.

See Also: First African Country To Gain Independence: How Others Followed

10. Algerian Dates are Often Referred to as ‘The Queen of All Dates’

The species Delget Noor is one of the most appreciated species of dates and is regarded as the ‘Queen of all Dates’ because of its high quality and distinct taste. The Delget Noor is one of Algeria’s export products. Algeria has more than half a million date palm trees producing these sweet fruits that are highly rich in fiber, Vitamin K, and B-complex. 

The post Algeria: 10 Fascinating Facts You Didn’t Know appeared first on WeAfrique.

However, judging by GDP per Capita, the country is placed in the 9th position.

Despite these, Madagascar, a country that wasn’t discovered until 500 AD is known to be one of the top 5 largest Island Countries in the world and also one of the world’s top conservative priorities because it has an unusual endemism and 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 2 of which are natural and 1 cultural.

Check out these Mind-blowing Facts about Madagascar

1. Madagascar Wouldn’t Have been on the Map of Africa

This Island country lies off the southeastern coast of Africa. It was, however, almost not on the map of Africa as it split away from the continent some 180 million years ago. It was also close to India but broke away from the Asian continent about 80 million years ago.

Millions of years ago, they were joined to Africa as part of a supercontinent consisting of places known today as Africa, South America, Australia, Antarctica, India, and Madagascar.

Considering that its official language is Malagasy, a language that is more common in Asia, specifically Indonesia, the people of Madagascar are regarded as not part of Africa. Their cultures are also similar to those of the Indonesian people and the first recorded settlers of this Island country were known to be Indonesians.

The inclusion of African cultures in this country only came much later during migration and the slave trade. To date, they are believed to have closer roots to Asians than they do in Africa.

2. About 80% of Vanilla Used in the World is Gotten from Madagascar

In the world, this country is the top producer of Vanilla. Thanks to the country’s hot, humid climate, its rich soil, and farming skills, Madagascar rose to be the leading producer of Vanilla.

The only other countries that come close to her in the production of this fruit are Indonesia, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and China.

Madagascar places the African continent on the map of the world’s leading producer of vanilla with 41% of the global production share producing a volume of about 3.10K MT.

In addition to being the largest vanilla producer, she also is the biggest producer of a precious gem known as sapphires. She also produces cocoa, chocolates, and many other products.

3. Most of the Wildlife Found in Madagascar Cannot be Found Anywhere else in the World

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There are features peculiar to Madagascar which makes the country 1 of only 17 countries regarded as megadiverse countries.

One such feature is the fact that animals such as Lemurs are a species endemic to Madagascar. These animals cannot be found anywhere else save for this southeastern island.

There were initially about 50 of them but over the years, these lemurs have reduced drastically and are almost less than 30 now.

Lemurs are able to survive in Madagascar right now because of the Island’s isolation. They are also considered a sacred animal in this country but unfortunately have become an endangered species as humans have hunted them and destroyed their habitats.

Additionally, you can find over 50% of the World’s Chameleons in Madagascar. Though not endemic, this country boasts of having more than half of this reptile here.

One more peculiar thing about this African country is the presence of an endemic tree species known as the baobab.

In the baobab alley located in western Madagascar, there are about 6 species of baobab trees out of a total of 8 species peculiar to this area.

4. Madagascar is Home to the Oldest Island on the Planet

It is known that this country is the second-largest Island country in the world and the fourth-largest Island on Earth but did you also know that it is the oldest island on planet Earth?

Madagascar has been around for over 80 million and was initially part of the Indian Ocean as already stated. She stretches across 587,000 square kilometers and is bigger than Spain or even Thailand when it comes to size.

5. She produced one of Africa’s Most Iconic Queens

‘The Mad Queen of Madagascar’, Queen Ranavalona I would not readily be named one of Africa’s most celebrated queens but she was quite iconic. Due to her policies and extremism many people, foreigners and countrymen alike became wary of her throughout her rulership of Madagascar from 1829 to 1861.

Despite being seen as erratic, wicked, and a tyrant, it wouldn’t be fair to not point out the good things she did for her country.

Because of her rule, Madagascar was able to preserve its cultural practices even as her predecessors’ reign threatened to destroy it.  She was a good politician and leader who expanded her territory to cover most of the Island.

Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to bring much change to the country and even to date, only a little over 10% of the roads in Madagascar are paved.

6. She is one of Africa’s Top Cannabis Smoking Countries

Par studies, Madagascar is on the top 10 list of African countries that smoke Cannabis. It has not been legalized in the country and so its production and usage have been largely illegal and discreet.

A recent study shows that this Island nation is placed in the 9th spot, a couple of places below Nigeria which is at the No. 1 position as the highest cannabis-smoking country.

In 2021, it was estimated that about 2.1 million Malagasies smoke Cannabis as against 20.8 million Nigerians who do.

7. Madagascar was Once Home to Pirates

During the late 17th century and early 18th century, Madagascar was a haven for pirates. European pirates and traders sought solace and rest in this Island country back then and even began to call themselves Liberi.

These pirates established their own system of government and laws and called their new-found abode the ‘Independent Pirate Nation of Libertalia’. They also renounced their original identities and began to live as new people.

8. You can find the 3rd most Malnourished Population in Madagascar

Not only is this country one of the top 5 poorest countries in Africa, but they are also global in her misfortune. Madagascar ranks in 3rd place amongst countries that are most affected by hunger and malnutrition. This research was carried out by the Global Hunger Index in 2022.

Not only are the Malagasies malnourished, but they are also one of the unhappiest populations in the world.

It is a little wonder ‘why’ given that they haven’t developed so much through the years, they are poor and suffer from malnourishment.

READ ALSO: Poorest Countries in Africa 2022: Top 10

9. About 85% of the Farmers Farm Rice as it is the Country’s Staple Food

Food is one thing that binds the people of this country. Not just any food, though, particularly rice.

In Malagasy, the term ‘to eat’ is translated as ‘to eat rice’ and this just goes to show how much they love and eat rice in Madagascar. In rural areas, these people can eat rice 3 times a day.

Rice is one of the country’s most planted and harvested food crops and over 80% of farmers in the country, farm rice.

As such, the staple food of the Madagascans is rice.

10. Shocker!!! There are No Penguins in Madagascar

Safe for a southern Rockhopper penguin who may have gotten lost in Madagascar as far back as 1956, there are actually no penguins on the Island.

In fact, the Disney movie, ‘Penguins of Madagascar’ did portray the penguins there were foreigners and not locals of the Island. However, people have since believed that there are penguins in Madagascar and are almost always disappointed not to find any upon visits.

There are no living or breeding penguins in the country. Other animals you won’t find here are giraffes, zebras, lions, and hippos.

Those too were visitors to Madagascar in the aforementioned Disney movie. The only animal from amongst the main cast of the movie who is a native of Madagascar is King Julian who is a ring-tailed lemur.

The post Madagascar Is One Of The Poorest Countries In Africa: Other Facts` appeared first on WeAfrique.

1. Blyde River Canyon

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Location: Mpumalanga, South Africa

Unique Features: One of the deepest Canyon (3280 feet and 16 miles long), the Greenest of all the Canyons in the world.

For staunch lovers of nature, the Blyde River Canyon is likely the first location they will consider when visiting South Africa. The river which passes a rock formation known as the ‘Three Rondavels’ is dominated by subtropical vegetation and supports a large diversity of life that includes numerous fish, antelope species, hippos, crocodiles, and lots more.

The Kadishi water is also a ‘must see’ in the Blyde River Canyon. The formation of the waterfall strikingly resembles a face that is crying profusely, and is thus sometimes known as ‘the weeping face of nature’.

2. Kruger National Park 

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Location: Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa

Unique Features: It spans 19,633 square kilometers, home to over 12,000 elephants, 27,000 African Buffalo, 1,000 leopards, and lots of other wonderful wildlife,  it has 21 rest camps, 2 private lodge concessions, and 15 private safari lodges.

The Iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is known for its amazing vast landscapes and exceptional wildlife. Several people from all over the world embark on private or group safari tours to find Africa’s Big Five animals which include Leopard, Elephant, Lion, Rhino, and Leopard.

The park contains twelve main rest camps, as well as several smaller camps. It also has lodgings and luxury safari accommodations that will give you an amazing night experience.

3. Garden Route

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Location: Western Cape Province of South Africa

Unique Features:  Home to many large mammals (such as; bushpig, bushbuck, and so many others), presence of green forests, flowering fynbos, and abundant streams, rivers, and waterfalls, and is one of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

The Garden Route remains one of South Africa’s most interesting and famous stretches of the coastline. Year in and year out, several families troop in and out of this location owing to its temperate landscape of sandy beaches, forest formation, and rocky shores.

4. Cape Winelands

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Location: Boland region of the Western Cape province of South Africa

Unique features: Know for its exceptional award-winning wines, fascinating history, picturesque settings, and exquisite foods.

Also known as the culinary capital of South Africa, The Cape Winelands consists of the most popular wine-producing districts found within the Western Cape geographical unit of South Africa. The location also offers a range of adventure activities and conventional sports facilities including hiking, walking, rock climbing, golf, squash, tennis, indoor heated pools, horse riding, and swimming.

5. Isimangaliso Wetland Park

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Location: East coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Unique features: Coral reefs, long sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lake systems, swamps, and extensive reed and papyrus wetlands.

The Isimangaliso Wetland Park which is situated in Kwazulu Natal offers a magical landscape composed of beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and several highly enjoyable activities. It is also one of South Africa’s top bird-watching locations with over 482 species of birds. It also holds a large body of freshwater that holds several aquatic creatures.

SEE ALSO: Is Cape Town Safe? 5 Safest and 5 Most Dangerous Places In South Africa

6. Addo Elephant National Park

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Location: Eastern Cape, ‎South Africa

Unique features: Has over 600 Elephant, Unique Vegetation and Longest Dunes in the Southern Hemisphere,  Massive Reintroduction of Historical Species, Most Diverse Game Park

Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest game reserve in South Africa. The game reserve is famous among tourists for its large elephant herds that graze on the vegetation. Due to its proximity to the coast, travelers can visit the park for an opportunity to see Southern Right Whales and White Sharks. Furthermore, the area has a range of Safari Game Lodges for travelers.

7. Durban

Location: Eastern South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province

Unique features: Home to The Ushaka Marine World, Its harbor entrance can take the world’s largest “super ships”.

Several tourists are drawn to Durban because of its great wildlife, unspoiled beaches, lagoons, fresh air, and culinary delight. It stands as one of South Africa’s finest locations.

8. Hermanus

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Location: Southern coast of the Western Cape province of South Africa

Unique features: Home to 2 Blue Flag Beaches(Hawston Beach and Grotto Beach)

Hermanus has become a popular holiday hub because of its unspoiled beaches, lagoons, secluded forests, and crashing surf. Many people are also attracted by its marine wildlife, fresh air, and culinary delights.

9. Drakensberg

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Location: eastern part of South Africa

Unique features: Presence of famous peaks that are favorites to photograph and summit, and home to several smaller foothills, stunning waterfalls, inviting rock pools, fresh mountain streams, and mysterious caves.

The Drakensberg offers an enormous diversity of attractions and activities such as mountain biking, trout fishing, and horse riding. It is also known for clean air, clear skies, and comfortable lodges and hotels for visitors and tourists.

10. Mossel Bay

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Location: Western Cape province, South Africa

Unique features: Mildest all-year climate in the world, long stretch of beaches, warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and a championship golf course

Mossel Bay has been a beach holiday destination for South Africans for more than a century. The location is known for its warm and stable weather. The Indian Ocean and its beaches have also added to the aesthetics of Mossel Bay. Moreover, the cultural attractions of the locations are its important feature.

The post 10 Places You Must Visit In South Africa appeared first on WeAfrique.

Ranging from places like Victoria Falls, and Hwange National Park, to Great Zimbabwe, make make sure you make this country a travel destination of a lifetime.

Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe for a Mindblowing Experience

1.  Victoria Falls

Any talk of the largest sheet of falling water in the wall would be incomplete without talking about the Victoria waterfalls named after the late British monarch. The water which is shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe has a combined width of 1,708m making it the world’s largest waterfall in the world.

The waterfall can be accessed from both countries with 75 percent of it being visible from Zimbabwe. Hence, we will concentrate on getting to it from Zimbabwe. It can be accessed through Victoria Falls town. One of the pecks of visiting Victoria Falls is that you get to visit two national parks in which the falls are found; the Mosi-Oa-Tunya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Victoria Falls National Park.

Also, it is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Others are the Aurora Borealis, Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, Great Barrier Reef, Mount Everest, Grand Canyon, and Paricutin.

So if you are looking to visit some of the best places in this beautiful country, be sure to put Victoria Falls on your bucket list.

2. Hwange National Park

Founded in 1929, it is the largest band in the country and one of the best places to visit in Zimbabwe to see wildlife. Interestingly, before tourists started including it in the list of places to see in the country, the park was attached to the royal family of the Ndebele.

It is said that the great Ndebele warrior, King Mzilikazi used the area as a hunting ground. Thanks to the Zimbabwean government, this gem can be accessed by people around the world.

Aside from having the big 5 land animals; elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards, it also has over 400 bird species. Notably, the huge concentration of elephants makes it one of the most concentrated elephant sanctuaries in the world.

3. Great Zimbabwe

Located in Masvingo, this medieval African city was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Zimbabwe and home to the Shona people till the 15th century when it was abandoned.

The site is made up of hills which are mostly seen as the religious part, the enclosure, and the walls. Of this, visitors can’t help but notice the symbolism of power and authority that the Shona had in the area. Moreso, it served as a trading connection between the area and other parts of the world such as Persia and China due to artifacts found by archaeologists.

While it was hard for Europeans and other early explorers to believe Africa had such great architecture, Great Zimbabwe is proof that indeed Africans built sophisticated architecture. It is not surprising that it was made a UNESCO site in 1986.

4. Mana Pools National Park

Probably the largest national park in the country, this UNESCO world heritage site offers visitors an opportunity to see hippopotamus, crocodiles, elephants, and many aquatic birds. The park is located along the Zambezi River in the northern part of the country.

Historically, the park holds dear memories to the Bushmen who once called it home. Evidence of their living in the area can still be found in the rock paintings left in caves within the park. Apart from this, other interesting things point to a rich history and heritage such as the Muuyu WeMurengwas Boabab tree which is found on the Sapi River within the park.

Today, the tree which is associated with the Tonga people is considered a National Treasure. If you are a history buff, visiting this park is a sure way of adding to your knowledge.

5. Nyanga National Park

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The park sits on 116, 000 acres of dense forest which house many archeological sites. Nyanga was once known as Rhodes Inyanga National Park and it is one of the oldest national parks in the country.

Due to its mountainous nature, the park is a good destination for anyone with a twitch for adventure. It offers many hiking trails, wildlife viewing, fishing, birdwatching, and immersion into archaeology or do we say into history. Animals in the park include Zebras, antelope, waterbucks, klipspringer, and kudu.

Aside from this, a lot of myths, legends, and bizarre occurrences have been associated especially in connection with Mount Nyangani. The mountain is the highest in Zimbabwe but this is not all that there is to it. It is said that there is a strangeness about the mountain which sometimes swallows people which the Manyika people say is due to a vindictive spiritual presence.

While this may discourage many from visiting the park, don’t panic, this is just a bit of warning as you would not want to miss out on all the other interesting features.

6. Lake Kariba

Aside from being the mother of all continents, some of the most beautiful sites are located in Zimbabwe. So how about visiting the largest artificial lake in the world, Lake Kariba? This beautiful gem was formed by damming the Zambezi River to generate hydroelectric power.

Like many shared treasures, Lake Kariba is shared between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The lake was constructed by Andre Coyne and it took three years before it was completed. It is a great spot for house boating and fishing.

7. Chinhoyi Caves

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Located close to Harare, the country’s capital, this tourist location is a majestic piece of nature. Also, it can serve as a romantic getaway for a couple that wants to immerse themselves without thinking about any other person in the world.

The caves which are made of dolomite and limestone also boast a crystal blue colored natural pool located in it.

8. Chiremba Balancing Rocks

These rocks are located in Epworth, Harare, and are said to represent a balance between nature and man. Though many balancing rocks can be found in different parts of the country, Chiremba Balancing Rocks are the most popular.

9. Khami Ruins

This is an archaeological ruin that holds a rich history of the area. Based on the relics, it has been proven that Khami was abandoned in the 16th century. Importantly, items from other parts of the world such as China were found there. This implies that the area was an important trading point.

Due to its cultural significance, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

See Also:10 Interesting Facts About Zimbabwe 

10. Matobo National Park

Though it is the last place on this list, it does not make it the least important. On the contrary, Matobo National Park is home to granite mountains and wooded valleys. Some of the significant parts of the park are the Matobo or Matopos Hills. The hills have one of the highest concentrations of rock art in Southern Africa dating back to thousands of years.

These paintings represent the different aspects of daily living. One man who found the place a true beauty is the former colonizer Cecil Rhodes. He described it as World’s View and even added it as his final resting place in his will. Today, Rhode’s grave has become a tourist attraction in the park.

Other attractions in the park include the Maleme Dam where one can enjoy coming and canoeing.

The post 10 Best Places To Visit In Zimbabwe appeared first on WeAfrique.

One of the top reasons is that it is the fastest-growing economy in Africa. According to the World Bank, the GDP growth of Ethiopia in 2021 was 5.64%. It was however expected to rise to 5.7% by 2023.

It is also important to state that this country has 9 UNESCO Sites in Africa. She who is considered to be the ‘Nation of Festivals’ was believed to have been ruled over by the Queen of Sheba during her reign.

Ethiopia is also unique because here you can find the longest existing lava lake and also the longest river in the world, Lake Tana, that passes through her. It is also the highest Capital City in Africa, the 4th highest in the World, and the home of the African Union.

There Are so Many Interesting Facts about This Great African country but Let’s Look at These 10 Enthralling Facts

1. Ethiopia is Africa’s Oldest Country

Ethiopia was founded sometime in 980 BC and is the oldest independent African country. With over 160 million citizens, it is also the 2nd most populated country in Africa, following the ‘Giant of Africa’, Nigeria. It is also the most populated landlocked country in the world.

It is also speculated that some of the earliest human populations lived in Ethiopia. The belief is that Homo Erectus evolved here over 1 million years ago and there are archaeological findings confirming this to be true.

Over these years, the country has birthed more than 80 languages but has only 5 official languages including Amharic, Tigrinya, Somali, Oromo, and Afar. The most common foreign language spoken in the country is English.

Ethiopic or Geez is one of the oldest alphabets in the world. It has its own unique syllabary and phonetics and the alphabet consists of 33 letters and 7 vowels.

2. This Nation of Festivals was Never Colonized

Ethiopia was never colonized but was only occupied by the Italians for 6 years – from 1936 to 1941. Of all the 54 African countries, she and Liberia were the only countries to have never been colonized. Liberia was never colonized because it was initially not a country but was a land for freed slaves who didn’t want to return to their country.

Ethiopia would have been colonized by Italy in the 1930s and they even occupied the territory for years. However, they were unable to bring the entire country under their control and eventually had to leave, unsuccessfully.

3. No Other Country Operates at the Same Time and Date as Ethiopia

This country is one of 5 countries in the world that does not operate with the Gregorian calendar. She adopted the calendar system which is a close replica of the Julian calendar.

This country operates a ’13 month calendar system, different from the widely recognized 12 months. Ethiopia has 12 months of 30 days and a thirteenth month of 5 days or 6 if it is a leap year. Because of this, the country is 7 years and 8 months behind the Gregorian calendar.

The main reason for this is however the differences in the birth of Jesus. They began to calculate the birth of Jesus from a different date than the rest of the world. Ethiopia celebrates theirs on January 7 and during their spring in September, the rest of the world enters the New Year.

They also had their own alphabet, letters, and numbers traced back to Sabean.

When it comes to telling the time, she is the only country that uses a 12-hour clock. They track their timing from dusk to dawn and then dawn to dusk. They basically use daylight to figure out the time.

In practical terms, the sun rises at 7 am, and by 1 o’clock. Noon was synonymous with 6 pm. Nonetheless, there are some places in the country that use the 24-hour clock allowing visitors to understand the times better.

The other countries that operate different calendars are; Afghanistan and Iran which follow the Solar Hijri calendar, Thailand and Nepal which adopted the Vikram Samvat, and Nepal Sambat calendar.

4. Ethiopia has a Rich History of Rulers

Since the early 1900s, Ethiopia has been blessed with a good number of rulers which include queens and emperors. These rulers made significant impacts on the progress of the country.

The emperors who ruled the country till 1974 were believed to have been descendants of King Solomon. The queens were referred to as Candace and Ethiopia had quite a good number of remarkable queens.

Queen Zewditu was the empress of the Nation of Festivals from 1916 to 1930 and was internationally recognized as the first female African head of state (president).

After her, there was Queen Gudit or Judit who was a Jewish queen and ruled during the 10th century. She ruled parts of the country and will forever be remembered for burning down a lot of Churches.

5. Over Half of Africa’s Mountains are Found Here

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Considering how rich this country is in preservation, it isn’t weird that she has most of her mountains still intact and even a sight to behold by all.

She is rich in landscape, very mountainous, and boasts of having about 70% of the mountains found in Africa.

6. Traditionally, Children Do Not Share the Last Name of their Parents

Of course, Ethiopia wouldn’t be called the Nation of Festivals if she did not have rich cultures and traditions. One such tradition is one that doesn’t necessarily expect children to bear the same last name as their fathers.

Therefore, in Ethiopia, children are named by their first name and then their father’s name as their last name. People here also mostly refer to people using their first name so this eliminates the surname most times.

Also, it is not customary for women to change their names as a result of marriage. Because the second name isn’t a surname, it takes away the importance of having the wives bear the second name.

7. Ethiopia is the Oldest Christian Country in Africa

She is the oldest Christian Country in Africa and also the second oldest Christian country in the world. Ethiopia has historical tales that date back to biblical times. She has coined most of her cultural activities including a days-long festival, back to the beginning of Christianity.

In the world, Armenia is the only country that is older than Ethiopia when it comes to Christianity.

Also, Ethiopia boasts of having the biblical Ark of the Covenant. It is claimed that Axum, a church in Ethiopia, is the final resting place of the Ark.

After this 10 Commandment given to Moses was reported missing during the Babylonian sack of King Solomon, Ethiopians said it was taken to their country where it was kept safe.

The supposed resting place of The Ark is heavily guarded by a monk and people are not allowed into the monastery, therefore it remains a claim that is yet to be proven with evidence.

One other claim that makes this country’s biblical stance valid is the fact that the Queen of Sheba once ruled over Ethiopia.

Interestingly, Ethiopia was also the first country to accept Islam as a religion, in the world.

READ ALSO: Every African Country, Capital, How It Got Its Name, Most Spoken Language

8. In This Country, You Will Find the Lowest Points on Earth

The Danakil Depression is the lowest place in Africa and is at the ‘mouth’ of three tectonic plates located in the Horn of Africa. This place is approximately 125 meters below sea level and is a small desert that houses 25% of African volcanoes.

Because of the number of volcanoes there and due to some other factors, this place has also earned itself the title of ‘hottest place inhabited’ in Africa.

In the world, the lowest land area is the shoreline of the Dead Sea Depression found in Israel, Jordan, and Syria.

9. Ethiopians are Probably the Leanest People on Earth

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Probably owing to the fact that this African country is mostly a vegetarian country, most of its people are very lean. They are so lean some people refer to them as the leanest people on earth with their obesity rate at 4.5% as of 2022.

The meals found in this country have been regarded as tasty, diverse, and above all, healthy. It is a place where vegetarians can comfortably live and eat with no worries.

Ethiopians, because of their strong Christian beliefs and doctrines, strictly follow Orthodox Christianity which prevents the eating of animal and animal products on Wednesdays and Fridays. Because of this, they substitute these products for healthier green products even in their restaurants.

This is weird because they are also one African country who have raw meat as a ceremonial, cultural dish.

10. The Birthplace of the Rastafarian Movement is Ethiopia

Oh, you thought it was Jamaica, right? Well you, me, and a lot of other people are actually wrong.

While Jamaica only developed and spread this Rastafarian movement, its actual birthplace is Ethiopia.

The word ‘Ras’ is an Ethiopian word that means ‘Chief’ in Amharic, the country’s official language. ‘Tafari’ is the first name of a one-time Ethiopian Emperor, Haile Selassie I who was believed to have been an incarnation of God and also the spiritual leader of the Rastafarians.

Lastly, take a look at the Ethiopian flag and the colors of the movement. Does it seem like those colors match coincidentally?

You see, the Rastafarian movement has its birthplace traced back to Ethiopia.

The post The Fastest Growing Economy In Africa Is That Of Ethiopia: Amazing Facts About The Country appeared first on WeAfrique.

Here are 10 Unique and Awesome Places to Visit While in Ethiopia

1. Dankali Depression

This place is considered to be the lowest point on earth located in Africa. Found around the East African Rift Valley, the beauty here is more pronounced when the lakes around it boil.

The Dankali Depression houses one of 6 lava lakes in the world and the Erta Ale is definitely one to visit.

Despite how hot it is in this part of Ethiopia bordering Eritrea and Djibouti, there are still people who live here. The Afar people have made this area their home having lived here for 100s of years.

2. Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches

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These 11 medieval churches were built by King Lalibela in the 12th century. They were constructed close to the little village of Lalibela, from enormous volcanic rock slabs.

There is hardly a visit to this place that doesn’t end with praises as the settlement was designed in such a way that it looks like Jerusalem.

All these churches are dug into the ground and the most remarkable is St. George’s Cathedral which is a beautiful sight to behold.

Close to Lalibela, there are a couple of awesome monasteries, also worthy of seeing.

3. The Holy City of Harar

Harar has made a name for itself because it is a holy, historic, and walled city. It was built in the early 16th century and has narrow alleyways which further adds to its beauty.

This city was once known as a commercial link between Africa and the Middle East but nowadays, it is known for its old buildings and also, its walls. These walls were built to prevent invasion and provide defense against alien religious forces.

In Harar, there are about 100 mosques that have earned the holy city the title of ‘Africa’s Mecca’. It is also called the 4th holiest city of Islam.

Harar has a nightly ritual of feeding hyenas by ‘The Hyena Guy’ that is also very attractive to watch. For brave visitors, you could also decide to hand-feed the hyenas for an extra adventure.

4. The Rift Valley

This valley has seen many lakes spring up and forests grow around it. Running through the middle of Ethiopia, the Rift Valley has warm and humid weather and offers a different feel from what you would have gotten in the highlands.

Having several bubbling lakes and enticing cultures, whoever finds him or herself in The Rift Valley is sure to enjoy an almost perfect holiday location- serene and natural.

5. The Blue Nile Falls

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Ethiopian locals refer to this place as the ‘Tis – Isat’ falls which translates to ‘Smoke’ or ‘Fire’. A visit to this location will make you understand why but let’s try and give a brief description…

This fall is magnificent, located close to the Bahir Dar, and produces mists that look like fire or smoke, hence the name.

While on the Blue or White Nile, looking towards this fall, you would be mesmerized by the view and may never want to leave.

This fall doesn’t only house visitors and the locals in its vicinity, it is also a haven for beautiful green vegetation, lots of colorful birds, and a generous species of monkeys.

6. The Omo Valley

The Omo Valley may not be as interesting as those who live here. The Mursi and Hamar people of the Omo River in this area are known for their unique cultural activities. They are African tribes that have resisted influence from the outside world.

The indigenous Mursi people, for example, are widely known for the ways they beautify and adorn themselves which includes using discs made of clay and other materials.

They also engage in stick fighting to acknowledge the coming of age of men. Their houses are also a thing to study as well as how they migrate with these houses.

Despite being regarded as the most dangerous and unfriendly tribe in Africa, the Mursi people located in the Omo Valley are quite welcoming and would share their cultures with people who abide by their rules and enter their vicinity through the right channels.

7. Gondar

Gondar is also referred to as the ‘Camelot of Africa’ and is located in the hills of northern Ethiopia. The view of this city can be taken in as soon as a descent upon the Ras Dashen is made.

As one of the UNESCO heritage sites, some of the beautiful sights to behold are the Middle Ages castles that were homes to Ethiopian Emperors, Queens, and royalties.

There is also the Simien Mountains view that can be enjoyed from the highest point of the Gondar. It is also easily accessible on foot and offers great restaurants, stores, and hotel services.

Here is a list of must-see places at the Gondar;

• The Fasiladas’ Bath is the location for the Timkat event.
• Debre Berhan Selassie which is one of the most exquisite churches in Ethiopia
• The Royal Enclose has, on its own, attracted many visitors.

8. Simien Mountains

These mountains are located in the highlands of northern Ethiopia and offer visitors an exotic view of this part of the country. With over 1300 mountains, Ethiopia has craggy peaks and a good number of the panoramas.

Yet another UNESCO heritage site, this mountain range has been called God’s playground

The Simien Mountains are also a great place to see rare animals such as the Gelada bleeding heart baboon, Walia Ibex (a rare species of goat), and the Ethiopian wolf. Unfortunately, these animals are at risk of extinction.

READ ALSO: 15 Richest African Countries: Population, GDP, Minerals, Foreign Reserve

9. Aksum

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Aksum is a place believed to be the home of the Queen of Sheba and also the final resting place of the Ark of Covenant. It is one of the oldest cities on the continent that shows ancient Aksumite Obelisks if you look over the St. Mary of Zion church complex.

This UNESCO heritage site has been ignored by visitors but it is important to note that there are really amazing places to visit here. For one, there are the mountaintop monasteries, then, there are relics all over the city, and then there are also the Aksumite empire tombs.

The large rock-hewn reservoir named Mai Shum is another interesting location. This reservoir is reportedly where the Queen of Sheba used to bathe.

10. Addis Ababa

There won’t be a perfect and fulfilled visit to Ethiopia if you overlook the capital city, Addis Ababa. A typical city with the hustle and bustle associated with it, Addis Ababa is the headquarters of the African Union. Due to this fact, the capital city of Ethiopia is also regarded as the capital of Africa.

She is also the largest market in Africa, little wonder she has the fastest-growing economy on the continent.

Addis Ababa has magnificent churches, cathedrals, museums, and mosques. She is also beautiful because of her blend of traditional and modern cultures and activities.

At night, this city bubbles with amazing nightlife as restaurants and other activities come alive.

Some interesting places to visit while in this city are the Entoto Mountains, the Crater Lakes in Debre Zeyits, Awash National Park, and Sheraton Addis amongst others.

The post Ethiopia Has Many Beautiful Tourist Attractions: Here Are 10 To Visit When At The Nation of Festivals appeared first on WeAfrique.

Here are 10 Facts About Kenya You Didn’t Know

1. It is home to the Big Five

The big five are Lion, Leopard, Rhinoceros, Elephant, and cape buffalo. At one time, the big five were at the top of hunter’s lists and considered the most difficult African game to shoot on foot.

While their population has reduced drastically over the years, there are several places in the country where they still exist in their numbers. Examples of such places are Lake Nakuru, Ol  Pejeta Conservancy, and the Lewa Wilderness Conservancy, where there are large populations of Rhinos.

However, the country’s most famous reserve, The Masai Mara, is one place you will get to see all the Big Five.

2. The Country has the second-highest mountain in Africa

The second-highest peak in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro and the highest in the country is Mount Kenya. It is an ancient extinct volcano that rose to a height of 5,199 meters (17,057 feet). The mountain is located in the central region of the country.

It was first explored by Sir Halford John Mackinder, Cesar Ollier, and Josef Brocherel on September 13, 1899, after 3 failed attempts that same year.

In 1949, a national park was founded to protect the region surrounding the mountain. In 1978, it was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

At this point, you might be wondering if the mountain got its name from the country or vice versa. Well, the country was named after the mountain and not the other way around.

3. It  is the world’s leading safari destination

One of the first things that come to mind anytime we hear the name Kenya is safari. The country offers one of the best safari experiences in the world.

Some of the famous safaris to visit in Kenya include the Sarara Camp, Kicheche Bush Camp, Asilia Rekero Camp, Lewa House, Lengishu House, and Segara Retreat. These are just a few of the numerous safari experiences in the country.

Most of these safaris are family-friendly and budget-friendly. Travelers are also privileged to see the Big Five. Kenya was recognized as the world’s leading safari destination in 2021, a position it has held for 7 years. So if you’re wondering where to go for your next vacation, this is the sign you need to visit Kenya.

4. Education is free

One of the major problems in Africa is affordable and quality education. In 2003, the Government of Kenya implemented the Free Primary Education policy, which allows free education for pupils of government-owned primary and secondary schools in the country. The scheme was made available to both citizens and international students.

However, this is not without challenges. Some of the challenges encountered by this development are understaffing, poor working conditions, inadequate funding, and a lack of school libraries.

5. Kenya is one of the most peaceful African countries

With the chaos in the world, This African country has managed to remain relatively peaceful over the past decades. The country has never been under a military dictatorship nor has it experienced any major conflict that could be referred to as a civil war, since its independence.

This does not mean that the country has been void of conflicts or crises. It has experienced outbreaks of communal violence which is a result of political instigation, access to water and pasture resources, land conflict, cattle raiding, and theft.

The most renowned nationwide conflict the country has experienced since independence was a series of clashes that occurred in 2007-2008, as a result of a disputed presidential election.

See Also: Kenya Beaches; These 10 Beaches are The Best in Kenya to Have a Good Time

6. Kenya has over 50 national parks and reserves

If you’ve read or heard about this African country before, its abundance of parks and reserves might not be news but how many parks and reserves can one country have?

Kenya has 22 national parks including Nairobi National Park, Meru National Park, Tsavo East National Park, and Hells Gate National Park. Similarly, the country has 28 national reserves including Buffalo Springs National Reserve, Shimba Hills National Reserve, and Shaba National Reserve.

It abundance of these national parks and reserves is to ensure the native wildlife of the country is protected against poachers and hunters.

7. There are over 60 spoken languages in the country

This African country is considered a multi-lingual country. While it has 2 major languages, Swahili and English, there are about 68 languages spoken throughout the country.

These languages are divided into three, The Bantu branch, which includes Kikuyu, Kamba, Luhya, and Gusii, The Nilotic branch, which includes Dholuo, Maasai, and Turkan and lastly, the Cushitic branch, which includes Oromo, Borana, Orma, and Somali.

Other minor languages that are not widely spoken include Rendille, Arabic, and Hindustani.

8. The world’s largest desert lake is found in Kenya

Aside from having a lot of national parks, reserves, and safaris, this East African country is also home to the largest desert lake in the world, Lake Turkana. It is the fourth largest and most saline lake in Africa.

Previously known as Lake Rudolf or Lake Jade, Lake Turkana is a vast but shallow body of water located in the Arid desert of the Kenyan Rift Valley. It stretched over 150 miles long and 20 miles wide.

Despite the country being hit by drought in recent years, lake Turkana is flooding. It is said to have swept entire villages away over the past years. Its expansion is estimated to be about 10 percent over the last decade.

9.  This East African country is home to The Great Rift Valley 

One of the most interesting facts about Kenya is the Great Rift Valley, also known as the East African Rift Valley. It was formed more than 25 million years ago by geological tension in the earth’s crust. It is approximately 6,500 kilometers long and 60 kilometers wide.

The rift lies within the boundaries of different national parks and stretches across 14 countries including Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Burundi, and Zambia. The lakes in the rift are shallow and have huge mineral deposits.

10. The country’s major export is Coffee

Kenya’s majority are farmers and coffee is one of the most valued exports of the country. This is because the country’s soil is unusually fertile due to the presence of an active volcano in the Great Rift Valley, which provides nutrients to the soil and enhances the flavor of the coffee.

Kenyan coffee is referred to as one of the world’s five best coffee. It is known for its rich body, high acidity, intense flavor, and delightful aroma. The coffee is exported to different countries and in May 2022, Belgium was said to be the largest Kenyan coffee market. Other products exported by the country include Tea and Flowers.

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A visit to these places and more will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders endowed in the landlocked country. Check out some of them below.

10 Best Places To Visit In Rwanda

1. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is one of Rwanda’s most prized places to visit. It is situated at the northwest end of the country, and it is home to more than half the population of the world’s endangered Mountian gorillas. In addition, there are 200 species of colorful birds, golden monkeys, spotted hyenas, buffalos, elephants, black-fronted duikers, and bushbucks.

The park is named after five of the eight dominant volcanoes making up the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Once here, a tourist can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and mountain biking.

2. Akagera National Park

Another exciting place a tourist can visit in Rwanda is the Akagera National Park, situated in the eastern part of the country along the border with Tanzania. Founded in 1934 by the Belgian government, the park is named after the Kagera River and is made up of savannah, woodland, wetland, and a dozen lakes.

Even though the park suffered huge losses during the Rwandan Civil War, recent efforts to give it life and a partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and the African Parks Networth saw the introduction of lions and Eastern black rhinoceroses. With this, it now boasts of having all of Africa’s big five: lion, African leopard, African bush elephant, rhinoceros, and African buffalo.

3. Nyungwe National Park

The Nyungew National Park was established in 2004 and is situated within the Nyungwe Forest, one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. Known for its biodiversity and aesthetics, a visit to this place gives tourists the opportunity to enjoy nature and wildlife. From its small chimpanzee population to L’Hoest’s monkey, the park offers 15 trails, including primate tracking, birdwatching, canopy walking, and tea plantations.

Notably, 70 percent of Rwanda’s water comes from Nyungwe which is blessed with an abundance of rainfall.

4. Gishwati Mukura National Park

In the western part of Rwanda lies the Gishwati Mukura National Park, which consists of two different forests: the Gishwati and the Mukura. The two forests have about 60 tree species, as well as hardwood and bamboo.

Gishwati, which suffered from deforestation and degradation due to the refugee crisis during the Rwandan genocide, is home to a group of 20 chimpanzees, including golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s, blue monkeys, and about 232 bird species. While Mukura has about 163 bird species,

To protect the two forests’ biodiversity, a national park status was given in 2015, and it started operating in 2019. Site attractions include a nature hike, chimpanzee and monkey tracking, and bird watching.

5. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, which lies on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the largest lake in Rwanda, the sixth largest in Africa, and the eighteenth deepest by maximum depth in the world.

To enjoy the beautiful views of the lake, tourists can go on a kayaking tour, mountain biking, or hiking. In addition, there are perfect spots for relaxation in Rubavu and Karongi, which are located within the lake area.

See Also-Is Cape Town Safe? 5 Safest and 5 Most Dangerous Places In South Africa

6. Kibeho

Kibeho, located in southern Rwanda, is one of the places that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the country annually. According to reports, it has become the center of global pilgrimage for Roman Catholics since the alleged appearance of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, on November 28, 1981.

The Kibeho Church receives pilgrims throughout the year on two dates: the Feast of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15 and the commemoration of Mary’s appearance on November 28.

The number of pilgrims who come from across the globe, including America, Poland, Slovakia, France, and Italy, is between 25,000 and 30,000. While those within Rwanda and neighboring countries such as Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Tanzania are around 100 every week.

7. Huye

To get a taste of Rwanda’s pre-colonial life and the transition to the present, Huye is the best place to visit in the country. Located in the country’s southern province, the district was founded at the beginning of the colonial era and named Astrida after the wife of King Leopold III of Belgium. During this period, it served as the colonial seat of power.

The pre-colonial town has a couple of interesting places to visit, from Mount Huye to the former National University of Rwanda and the Ethnographic Museum (National Museum), which provides traditional relics and history of the country’s pre-colonial era.

8. Nyanza

Nyanza is a perfect place to visit because of its significance in the country’s political history. Located in the southern province of Rwanda, the town was made the royal capital of the Kingdom of Rwanda by Mwami (King) Musinga Yuhi V in 1899, until 1962, when the country became a republic.

Now serving as the administrative capital of the Southern Province, Nyanza boasts several attractions, including the King’s Palace (now a museum), the new King’s Palace, and the Rwesero Art Museum (transitioning to a new type of museum at the moment).

Additionally, the town has two big hotels: the Heritage Hotel and the Dayenu Hotel. Each of the hotels has expensive restaurants for visitors and their customers’ delight.

9. Musanze

Musanze, a district in Rwanda’s Northern Province, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. This is because five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Massif, namely Karismbi, Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura, lie within its boundaries.

Since it is set on the foothills of the Virunga, the town is suitable for gorilla tracking, while tourists can tour the Musanze underground caves. The cave is 2km long and has 31 entrances, with the main entrance the size of a cathedral. It served as a shelter during wars many centuries ago and was also used for massacres during the Rwandan genocide.

10. Kigali

Kigali, the capital and largest city of Rwanda, was founded in 1907 as an administrative outpost by the German colonial resident Richard Kandt. It became the capital city of the country when it gained independence in 1962.

A visit to the country without a touchdown in Kigali is a miss for any tourist. The city is clean and often full of life and color. There are several places to visit, including the Kigali Cultural Village, Kigali Memorial Center, Kandt House Museum, and Rwanda Art Museum.

The post 10 Best Places To Visit In Rwanda appeared first on WeAfrique.

The beauties of these capital cities are characterized by nature, man-made attraction centers, historical landmarks, and how well they have developed over time. Here are the top 15 most beautiful African capital cities based on popular opinion.

Most Beautiful Capital Cities in Africa

1. Cape Town and Pretoria, South Africa

Cape Town and Pretoria are 2 of the 3 capital cities in South Africa and are both known for their captivating scenery.

Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa. It is also often regarded as one of Africa’s most beautiful cities. The capital city is famous for housing some of South Africa’s major landmarks, such as Table Mountain, which is one of the oldest mountains and one of the 12 main energy centers in the world.

Other significant places and things that have contributed to Cape Town’s beauty include Boulder’s Beach, Clifton and Camps Bay Beaches, Kirstenbosch National Park, and Castle of Good Hope.

On the aspect of the other beautiful capital of South Africa, Pretoria houses all foreign embassies in the country. It is a place where Freedom Park, the National Library of South Africa, the Pioneer Museum, and the granite-structured Voortrekker Monument sit.

The town is also famous for its well-planned buildings as well as streets lined with Jacaranda trees. Little wonder it is one of the most visited African cities by tourists.

2. Cairo, Egypt 

It is the capital of Egypt and the largest urban agglomeration in Africa, the Arab world, and the Middle East. For centuries, Cairo is also regarded as one of Africa’s most notable and beautiful cities.

In ancient times, Cairo was known for harboring Heliopolis’s great city and being at the Nile Valley’s junction. Modern Cairo is home to historic sites such as the Mosques of Ibn Tulun and al-Hakim, the 12th century built Citadel of Saladin, and ancient madrassahs and mausoleums.

It has other major landmarks such as Al-Azhar Park, Khan el-Khalil, and Cairo Tower, and the longest bridge in Africa, known as the 6th October Bridge.

The beauty of Cairo and its place in preserving some of Africa’s ancient major tourist attractions have contributed to Egypt’s place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Kigali, Rwanda

This African city is Africa’s cleanest and safest capital and the 3rd greenest in the world. It is a land of valleys and hills, historical sites, and modern architecture.

One of the major historical sites in Kigali is the Genocide Memorial which honors Rwandan genocide victims. Others are Camp Kigali Memorial and Belgian Peacemakers Memorial.

Other major things that have contributed to Kigali’s beauty include attractive cultural centers, art galleries, road networks, attractive vegetation, and hotels.

4. Abuja, Nigeria

It is located in the center of Nigeria, and it is widely known for being the capital city of the popular African country. Abuja is also recorded as the fastest-growing city in Africa.

The city is renowned for having great town planning that was created based on a master plan by the International Planning Association (IPA), a consortium of 3 American planning and architecture firms.

Also, the well-crafted road network of Abuja has contributed to its beauty. Other major landmarks are Zuma Rock, Central Bank of Nigeria Headquarters, Thought Pyramid Art Center, Jabi Boat Club, and Millenium Park.

5. Rabat, Morocco

Rabat was founded in the 12th Century and has since been a major city in Morocco, a northern African country. Morocco’s capital has stood its ground for years as a beautiful city in Africa.

The beauty of Rabat has made it one of the most visited places in Africa, with a reported yearly visit of over 8 million tourists.

Some of the major attractions in Rabat include the ancient unfinished tower of a mosque called Hassan Tower. Others are the Kasbah of the Udayas garden and museums, the National Zoo Rabat Morocco, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

6. Tunis, Tunisia

This beautiful African capital of Tunisia is known for its beaches, modern sites, and historical landmarks. These, among several other things, have landed Tunisia a spot among Africa’s most visited tourist countries.

Among the buildings include the Museum of Tunisian heritage and Carthage called Bardo National Museum, which houses the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world and marble statues representing the deities of the Roman emperors.

More on its fascinating architecture, Tunis houses one of Africa’s tallest buildings, EY Towers, which is 46.5 meters. It is also the home of a central thoroughfare called Avenue Habib, Tunis City Hall, and Dar El Jeld’s oasis of luxury.

7. Port Louis, Mauritius

Port Louis is Mauritius’s capital, Africa’s most developed country, with a 0.802 HDI in 2022.

The beautiful city is Mauritius’ economic, cultural, and political center. The city is known for harboring many monuments from the colonial era, some dating as far back as the 18th century.

Major landmarks that have contributed to Port Louis’ beauty are the eleventh five-tier colonial Port Louis Theater, a Chinatown, a historic landmark with hilltop vistas called Citadelle, a shopping center with handicrafts, and Champ de Mars Racecourse thoroughbred horse race track.

8. Victoria, Seychelles

The smallest capital city in the world, Victoria is also the largest city in Seychelles and one of the most attractive in Africa.

The city is famous for having beauty that cuts across natural and manmade things. Nature boasts of being surrounded by some of the most beautiful African islands.

Its beauty can also be linked to its Clock Tower, one of the few clock towers in Africa; Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, which is considered one of the most beautiful and colorful African markets.

Other places that contribute to the beauty of this capital city are the Victoria Botanical Gardens, Aruk Miu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple, the National Museum of History, and the Bicentenary Monument.

9. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, remains one of the most beautiful cities in Africa. It is also regarded as one of the most developed cities in Africa.

It is the home of one of the tallest buildings in Africa, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters and NIB Bank Headquarters. It is also notable for its arts scene and great fashion scene.

Apart from its renowned road networks, among other beautiful things, it also has one of the most beautiful airports in Africa, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

It also has some notable beautiful places such as the National Museum, Red Terror Martyr Memorial Museum, Meskel Square, Ethnological Museum, and Unity Park.

10. Algiers, Algeria

It is the largest and capital city of Algeria. The city’s beauty, uniqueness, and historical preservation made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Much of the beauty of Algiers lies in its natural and historical markings. Its old town is often regarded as the most beautiful site in the Mediterranean. Algier’s Arabic city, Medina, is famed for ancient buildings such as Mosques and palaces.

11. Nairobi, Kenya 

The city was founded in 1899 and became Kenya’s capital in 1902. It is known for its cool weather and harboring several international organizations’ African headquarters.

The capital city of Kenya is also known for having some of Africa’s major national parks, including the Nairobi National Park, Kenya’s first game reserve, and the only protected area in the world that sits close to a nation’s capital.

Nairobi boasts natural tourist attractions such as Karura Forest and Mount Suwa Conservative. Some manmade attractions in the city are 7 August Memorial Park, Uhuru Park, and some of Africa’s tallest buildings, such as Britam Tower and Nairobi Global Trade Centres Office Towers.

12. Windhoek, Namibia

Namibia’s capital and largest city, Windhoek, is a social, economic, and political center. It is a culturally inclined city, and this has contributed to its beauty through the National Art Gallery, museum, and national theater.

Its architecture is famous for being a significant attraction in Namibia. Among the many include the neo-classist building called Turnhalle. Others are the national war and heroes memorial, Heroes’ Acre, and Namibia Craft Centre.

See Also: 10 Mineral Resources Mainly Found In Africa

13. Accra, Ghana

Accra is Ghana’s capital and the largest city in the country. It houses a wide range of exotic hotels, malls, bars, natural reserves, and home of factories and many beauty to behold.

The city is also the site of the famous Kotoko International Airport, Shai Hills, mountains, Sakumo Lagoon, Densu Delta, and the Muni Pomadze.

14. Abidjan, Ivory Coast

It is the economic capital of Ivory Coast and the 6th most populous African country. The city is known for being industrialized and urbanized, with its beauty found majorly in its Plateau and Cocody districts. It is characterized by construction compared to the 1970s and 1980s European buildings.

Abidjan, which is also known as Manhattan of the tropics, Small Manhattan, or Pearl of the Lagoons, is credited with beautifying itself with major landmarks such as Banco National Park, which has ancient sacred wood, Bassam Beach, and Zoo d’Abidjan.

15. Dodoma, Tanzania

It is a major social and economic city in Tanzania and the country’s capital city. Focusing on its beauty, Dodoma, a city founded by German colonists, can boast natural reserves such as open woodlands.

Other famous places for sights and landmarks are the Gaddafi Mosque, Bunge Tanzania Parliament Buildings, Kondoa Rock-Art Sites, and J-Jamhuri Stadium.

The post African Capital Cities: 15 Most Beautiful appeared first on WeAfrique.

Here are 10 Places You Should Visit in Kenya

1. Mount Kenya National Park and Reserve

This park and reserve is home to the second-highest mountain in Africa, which is also what it is named after. Mount Kenyan National Park was established in 1949 and features a wide range of birds including eagles and sunbirds. The Park also has caves and snow-capped peaks, which makes exploring it so much fun.

The best time to visit is during the dry season because during the rainy seasons, the trails are more difficult and visibility is poor.

When visiting this park, make sure to come along with hiking kits because hiking is one of the numerous activities you can enjoy in this park. Also, if you enjoy camping, then this is a go-to destination for you.

2. Lake Nakuru National Park

This park is located on the floor of the Great Rift Valley and is surrounded by beautiful grassland and scenery. It was created in 1961 around Lake Nakuru.

This spot is best known for having thousands of flamingos nesting along its shores. It also houses a host of bird species including the African fish eagle, Goliath heron, hamerkop, and Verreaux eagle. Aside from its unique collection of birds, it is also home to a variety of animals including Rhinos, lions, and Zebras.

This beautiful wildlife haven is ideal for bird-watching, hiking, picnics, and long walks.

3. The Maasai Mara National Reserve

Commonly referred to as “The Mara”, Maasai Mara National Park is a national game reserve located in Narok Couty, southwest of Kenya. This park boasts of being one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves.

Housing Africa’s “Big Five”, the resort is one of the largest in the world which is known for its annual wildebeest migration, one of the most spectacular natural events in the world.

There is a wide range of activities to be done in this reserve. One of which is the safari game drive. This is a classic safari experience that allows visitors the opportunity to come face-to-face with nature and the beauty it offers.

Other activities that can be done in this tourist site include exploring the savannah on foot, hot air balloon safaris, visiting the locals, horseback safari, witnessing the wildebeest migration, and exploring photography skills.

4. Amboseli National Park

Formerly Maasai Amboseli Game Reserve, this national park is located in Kajiado County. It is one of the largest parks in the country which was established as a reserve in 1906 and later turned into a national park in 1974.

Amboseli National Park is one of the best places to come extremely close to free-ranging elephants, it is also known as the home of the African Elephant. Aside from elephants, there are five different habitats to explore including wetlands with sulfur springs, the dried-up Lake Amboseli, the savannah, and the woodlands.

This park has views of the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. Another reason to visit this park is that you can visit the Maasai community which lives close to the park and experience the undiluted culture.

See Also: 10 Safest African Countries In 2023

5. Karen Blixen Museum

Located at the foot of the Ngong Hills, the Karen Blixen Museum offers an insight into the life of Karen Blixen, a Danish author who lived in the area in the early 1900s. After she died in 1962, the house was donated to the Keyan government by their Danish counterparts as an independence gift and to immortalize Karen, the museum was named after her.

It is a beautiful farmhouse, surrounded by a tranquil garden and an indigenous forest. Items that were used by the Danish author have been maintained to serve as exhibits in the museum. There is also a museum shop where tourists can get a wide range of gift items including postcards, posters, books, and mementos.

6. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust 

While this is not a museum or a park, it is a must-visit for tourists. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is an orphan elephant rescue and wildlife rehabilitation center located in Nairobi, Kenya. It was established in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick, in honor of her late husband, David Sheldrick.

The organization travels all through the country and rescues orphaned elephants, black rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and white rhinos. They also offer adoption for elephants. Visitors are allowed to get up close with the animals.

So if you have been wanting to get an elephant for yourself, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is your one-stop destination.

7. Hell’s Gate National Park

While the name might sound scary, Hell’s Gate Park is one of the must-visit destinations for nature lovers. It is located on the south of Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley. Hell’s Gate National Park was established in 1984 and is named after a narrow break in the cliffs of the Rift Valley.

Although one of the smallest parks in the area, it is filled with beautiful sceneries of towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges, star rock towers, and scrub-clad volcanoes. It is an ideal destination for a day’s trip away from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi.

Activities that can be enjoyed in this national park include mountain biking, rock climbing, and a view of beautiful wildlife.

8. Nairobi National Museum

This museum was founded in 1910 as the Natural History Museum of Kenya, it was then renamed Coryndon Museum in 1930. After the country got its independence, it was again renamed. This time around, it was named the National Museum of Kenya. It was then closed for renovation and reopened in 2008 as Nairobi National Museum.

This tourist destination houses a lot of artifacts that are relevant to the history of the country. It has different galleries which are The Story of Mammals, The History of Kenya, Cycles of Life Gallery, Numismatic Exhibition, and Asian African Heritage Gallery.

Each of these galleries interprets the country’s rich heritage. It also has shopping facilities where visitors can buy some souvenirs unique only to Kenyan culture. There is also a provision for night tours on request for a group of at least 10 people.

Other attractions in the compound include a snake park and botanical gardens.

9. Karura Forest

This is a nature lover’s dream. The Karura Forest Reserve is located on the outskirts of Nairobi. It was gazetted in 1932 and managed by the Kenya Forest Service and the Friends of Karura Forest Community Forest Association.

The forest offers a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and a quiet time with the greenery and nature. It is the perfect spot to retreat and reset while walking and communing with nature. Activities that can be enjoyed in this forest include dog walking, Trail biking, picnics, and Tennis.

Book lovers can also visit this forest with their favorite books and enjoy a read together with the beauty of nature. The forest offers different types of tours. They are General, specialized, and exclusive VIP tours. The forest also has a plant nursery, where visitors can buy their favorite plants.

There’s no better way to commune with nature while in Kenya, than visiting this beautiful first reserve.

10. Malindi Beaches

This is a perfect vacation spot and one of the best places to visit in Kenya. It is located in Kilifi County. Malindi beaches speak class, elegance, and style. It has a wide range of resorts and hotels for tourists to choose from.

Some of the tourist attractions in Malindi include Turtle Bay, Che Shale Beach, The Malindi and Watamu National Parks, Gedi Ruins, and Marafa Hell’s Kitchen all located in Malindi town.

Want to travel for a honeymoon or get away with a significant other, look no further, Malindi Beach is the ideal location.

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