Did You Know These Interesting Facts About DR. Congo?

1. Music is the Biggest Export of the Country

While this might sound unbelievable, Congolese music was a thing in the 90s, before the rise of Afro beats and Amapiano. Congolese music was listened to by the entire continent and was one of the most influential music forms.

The Congolese music style is called Soukous. It has influenced the music industry in the continent. The country has produced legends in the music industry, including Koffi Olomide, Papa Wemba, Awilo Longomba, Madilu System, Zaiko Langa Langa, and Werrason.

While Congolese music is not as popular as in the 90s, some musicians, including Maitre Gims, Singuila, Dadju, Damso, and Siboy, still make good music within and outside the country.

2. Its Capital City, Kinshasa, Has the Largest French Speaking Population in the World

A few years ago, Paris had the highest French-speaking population in the World. However, a recent study proves that Kinshasa, the capital city of DR. Congo, has the largest French-speaking population in the World, with over 11.1 million French speakers as against Paris’s 2,161 million. This change is due to the population growth of the capital city.

3. The Democratic Republic of Congo has a Phenomenal Wildlife

This African country is blessed with beautiful and rare wildlife. Some animals are rare and found only in the country. One of these animals is the Okapi. It is also known as the forest giraffe, the Congolese giraffe, and the zebra giraffe. The Okapi is endemic to DR. Congo. It has features of a zebra, a giraffe, and deer.

Another rare wildlife in the country is the Bonobo. It is an endangered species of chimpanzee that is considered to be man’s closest relative. The Bonobo is said to share 98.7% of their genetic codes with humans.

Besides the two animals mentioned above, DR.Congo is said to have the highest concentration of animals in the World.

Read Also: Safest Countries In Africa

4. The Country Has Experienced Violent  Conflict for over 2 Decade

Civil wars have plagued the Democratic Republic of Congo, like most African countries. The country has two major wars, which observers called “Africa’s world wars.” During the second Congo War, the death toll was said to have risen to about 6 million people, making it the deadliest war since the Second World War.

While the civil wars have subsided, there are still conflicts that have led to a humanitarian crisis in the country. Especially the conflict between Rwandan and Congolese forces, which has led to the displacement of 262,000 people in 2022.

5. It is one of the Most Resource-Rich Countries in the World

This African country is blessed with different minerals and natural resources. It is blessed with diamonds, copper, cobalt, and tin ore. The country also has an abundance of coffee, which is the country’s major agricultural export, and oil

While it is expected that this abundance of natural resources would make the country prosperous, due to the mismanagement of these resources by the government and its frequent wars, this country is ranked one of the poorest in the World.

6. The Democratic Republic of Congo is Home to the World’s Deepest River

While many people will remember River Congo as the second-longest river in Africa, after the Nile, not many know that this river is the deepest in the World. It has a depth of 720 feet and is 1760 meters above sea level.

The river flows through the Republic of Congo, also known as Congo Brazzaville, the Central African Republic, Zambia, Angola, Cameroon, and Tanzania. It is the only major river to cross the equator twice. The country is named after this famous river.

7. The Country has 8 Active Volcanoes

2 of Africa’s most active volcanoes are located in DR. Congo. They are the Nyamuragira and the Nyiragongo. The Nyamuragira is the most active on the continent. Between 1865 and 2011, the volcano erupted 43 times, the most recent being in  2022.

Similarly, the Nyiragongo is famous for long active lavas that appear in the summit crater. Its most recent eruption occurred in 2021. it led to the deaths of 32 people. Before then, it erupted in 2002, killing a hundred people.

Other active volcanoes in the country are May-ya-moto, Tshibinda, Karisimbi, Visoke, Mugogo, and Mikeno.

8. The Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic Of Congo is Africa’s Most Biologically Diverse Protected Area 

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to the Virunga  National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in the center of the Albertine Rift and is recognized for its exceptional wildlife and habitat.

The World’s critically endangered mountain gorillas live in the park and the Bwindi National Park. It is estimated that there are 1000 mountain gorillas in the park alone. Additionally, the number of bird species in Virunga exceeds the total number in the U.S. and is more than 3 times that in the UK.

Similarly, it has a vast number of reptile and amphibian species. It is the only site on earth to have 3 types of great apes: the mountain gorilla, the eastern lowland gorilla, and the eastern chimpanzee.

9. The Nouabale-Ndoki National Park is the last Natural Habitat on Earth

This park is arguably the best example of an untouched natural habitat. It has never been logged and protects wildlife populations within its coffers without contact with humans, including forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees.

It was created in 1993 and collaboratively managed by the Congolese government and WCS. A foundation was created in its honor in 2014 to aid in financing the park.

The Nouabale-Ndoki National Park is part of the more extensive Sangha Tri-National Forest Landscape, nominated as a world heritage site in 2012.

10. The Democratic Republic of Congo is Home to the Shortest Tribe in the World

The Pygmy tribe is an indigenous tribe that lives in the Congo rainforest. They are famous for their small body size and height size. The average Pygmy man is about 4 feet 10 inches tall, while the average woman is around 4 feet and 1 inch.

This tribe is one of the last nomadic hunter-gatherer tribes in Africa. They were seen as backward by the rest of the country and were treated as such. As a result of economic activities going on in the  Congolese rainforests, the pygmies have moved deeper into the rainforest to avoid being attacked.

The post 10 Interesting Facts About The Democratic Republic Of Congo appeared first on WeAfrique.

So you might be thinking which country has the lowest GDP per capita and is considered the poorest country in the poorest continent? Stay with us while we list and discuss the top 10 poorest countries in Africa.

10 Poorest African Countries

1. Burundi

Burundi is a small landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Republic of Congo. It was ruled by the Europeans alongside  Rwanda, as Rwanda-Urundi until 1966 when it became a republic.

With a population of over 11 million and an economic growth rate of 3.21, Burundi is the poorest country in Africa. The GDP per capita of this poor country is $236.80 and it has a poverty rate of 65 percent. This means that over half of its population needs humanitarian aid and support.

This small country has experienced a series of political instability and 2 civil wars, which left scores dead. This insecurity has caused the economy of this country to suffer, making it the poorest country in Africa. This unenviable title has led to a high rate of malnutrition among Burundian children.

2. Somalia

This country located in the horn of Africa is considered the second poorest country in Africa. It is bordered by Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, and the Indian Ocean. With a population of over about 15 million, Somalia has been described as Africa’s most culturally homogeneous country.

This African country has a GDP per capita of $445.78 and stands as the second poorest country in the continent.

Having suffered years of civil war, Somalia has been declared a failed state because of the lack of a central authority. The citizens of this country do not have a functional government, hence, no infrastructure or economic growth. It has an unemployment rate of about 67 percent with over half of its population living in abject poverty.

The weather also doesn’t help in the predicaments of the Somali as they continually experience drought, which makes matters worse.

3. Mozambique

With a GDP per capita of $500.44, Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in Africa. This African country is located in southeastern Africa and is bordered by the Indian Ocean, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Eswatini, and South Africa.

Mozambique is the 35th largest country in the world with a land mass of 801,590 km square, and a population of over 31 million. This African country despite its abundance of natural resources is still considered one of the continent’s poorest countries, with about 41 percent of its population living in poverty.

The economy of Mozambique was crippled due to the insecurities and civil war which lasted for 15 years. Despite ending in 1992, its effects are still felt in the nation and its economy. Other problems of this country include political instability, corruption, and disruptive climatic conditions due to its proximity to the ocean.

4. Central African Republic

This is a landlocked country in Central Africa. It is bordered by Chad, Sudan, DR Congo, South Sudan, and Cameroon. The CAR covers a land area of 622,984 km square which houses it 4.92 million population.

This African country has suffered from a series of autocratic and corrupt leadership. It has also survived an attempt at monarchy by one of its past leaders, who declared the country and empire and himself, the emperor. While that was unsuccessful and lasted just a little while, the country has been continually plagued with leadership tussles that have resulted in civil wars. The wars were often characterized by human rights abuses.

The Central Africa Republic is considered one of the poorest countries in the African continent with a GDP per capita of $511.48, despite its acclaimed diamond trade which has added little to no financial value and has not improved the quality of life of its citizens. About 60 percent of this country’s population lives under the poverty line.

In 2019, his country had the second-lowest Human Development Index and the lowest inequality-adjusted Human Development Index. It is said to be the unhealthiest country and the worst country for young people.

5. Madagascar

This East African country is the largest island country in Africa and the second-largest in the world, after Indonesia. It is located in the Indian Ocean and is home to about 30 million inhabitants. It is considered one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth due to its beautiful landscape.

This island country’s economy relies heavily on trading and agriculture. The latter however can be affected by weather changes and disasters.

With a GDP per capita of $514.11, Madagascar is one of the countries with the lowest standards of living. This is owed largely due to the political instability and violent coups it has experienced over the years. Approximately 69 percent of its inhabitants live below the poverty line and almost one in every 2 children under the age of 5 is malnourished.  It is said that the country has been experiencing famine due to climate change.

However, the economy of Madagascar has taken a turn for the good after the government made its infrastructural development and poverty reduction its top priorities. At the time of this writing, Madagascar is one of Africa’s poorest countries.

6. Sierra Leone

With a GDP per capita of $515.93, Sierra Leone is considered one of the poorest countries on the African continent. This West African country is bordered by Liberia and Guinea. Its 8 million population is housed by a landmass of 17,740 km square.

Sierra Leone records a high rate of unemployment, corruption, and bad governance which has caused it to be mentioned in this list. This country has been on the list for a very long time, possibly, since its independence in 1961.

Its economy has been overly dependent on mineral exploitations and it is believed that the country has enough diamonds and gold to be sufficient to bring in foreign investment and earnings in foreign currencies. However, this seems not to be the case as the country is still impoverished with over half of its population living beneath the poverty line.

Due to the lack of social and basic amenities, this country has a high mortality rate and an even higher maternal mortality rate. About 40% of its adult population are illiterates with little to no education.

7. Democratic Republic of Congo

This country is the most populous Francophone country outside France, with a population of over 108 million French-speaking natives. Its 2,345,409 km square land area is bordered by South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, Angola, and the South Atlantic Ocean.

This African country is considered the second largest country on the African continent and the 11th largest in the world. It is blessed with natural resources that could easily make it one of the richest countries in the world if properly managed, yet it’s one of the poorest. The untapped deposits of minerals in the Congolese soil have been estimated to be in trillions of dollars.

This is a clear case of poor leadership and corruption which has caused over 64 percent of its population to struggle under the poverty line. In years to come, it is speculated that if put into proper use, the minerals of this country might take it out of its impoverished state.

8. Niger

The Republic of Niger is a landlocked country in West Africa. It is bordered by Libya, Nigeria, Chad, Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Algeria. It has a landmass of about 1,270,000 km square which houses over 24 million inhabitants. Niger is the second-largest landlocked country in Africa.

In 2020, the World Bank estimates Niger’s poverty rate to be 44.1 percent which is due to different factors including political instability, drought, and food insecurity. It has a GDP per capita of $594.

Having 80 percent of its land area being the desert is a huge problem for this West African country as its inhabitants feed on small-scale farming. Sadly this country is under the threat of turning into a desert due to climate change.

The lack of infrastructural development in this country has caused it to suffer from high fertility rates, which has led to overpopulation, poor health care, poor educational services, and environmental degradation.

9. Eritrea

This country is located in the horn of Africa. It is bordered by Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Djibouti. Parts of Eritrea have an extensive coastline along the Red Sea. Its 117,000 km square landmass includes the Dahlak Archipelago and other Hanish Islands.

With a GDP per capita of $642.66, over 60 percent of this country’s population lives in extreme poverty. Its impoverished state can be associated with the wars that have been experienced by the country. Similarly, like other African countries, this country has experienced a series of bad leadership, which has further crippled its economy. Over 20 percent of Eritrean children are out of school.

Other factors that have contributed to the poor state of this country are drought which has affected the agricultural sector, has led to famine, and lack of access to safe water. In recent times, there is a high rate of migration from the country. This is owed largely to the impoverished state of Eritrea.

See Also: Every African Country, Capital, How It Got Its Name, Most Spoken Language

10. Malawi

With a GDP per capita of $642.66, Malawi is the 10th poorest country in Africa. Located in East Africa, Malawi is a landlocked country bordered by Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Formerly known as Nyasaland, this East African country has a landmass of over 118,484 km square.

Malawi is not only one of the smallest countries, but also one of the poorest. The economy of this country is dependent on rain-fed agriculture. This has worked against the development of the country because of climate change.

Unlike the other countries on this list, Malawi has been relatively peaceful since gaining independence in 1964.

Its impoverished state has led to low life expectancy and high infant mortality. Similarly, the rate of HIV/AIDS in this country is extremely high and has led to a reduction in labor and an increase in the government’s expenditure.

The post Poorest Countries in Africa 2022: Top 10 appeared first on WeAfrique.

Makoko is dated back to the 18th century, it started off as a fishing village and over the years, generations have come and gone and some of its population know only there as home. However, in the nearest future, this floating slum might just be the next tourist attraction.

Interesting Facts About Makoko

1. It is also called the “Venice of Africa”

Makoko is sometimes referred to as the Venice of Africa. This is owed largely to its location. It is located beneath the 3rd mainland bridge, one of the longest bridges in Africa, which stands above the Lagos Lagoon.

It is called the “Venice of Africa” because of its similarities to the actual Venice which is known for its numerous canals. Just as Venice is built on water, so also is Makoko, the floating slum. However, some parts of Makoko sit on the land.

2. It Started as a Fishing Village

The floating slum of Makoko started as a fishing village where fishermen from the neighboring countries of Togo and Benin Republic come to fish and return to their homes, but about a century ago, these fishermen decided that they would rather live there than come visit.

As years roll by, it became home to them. Some of the residents of Makoko do not any anywhere else as home but the floating community.  The community is highly diverse just like Lagos states and has a mix of French, Egun, and Yoruba local dialects.

3. Makoko Has a Population of over 400,000 People

Even though the world bank estimates that the population of Makoko is over a little over 85,000, the chief of Makoko, known as the Baale, has said that the population of Makoko is over 400,000 people. The majority of these people come from the Egun tribe of Benin and Badagry.

Subsequently, there hasn’t been any official count of the community because it is an illegal settlement, hence, non-existent to the government.

4. The Community Lacks Basic Amenities

Things that seem basic and mundane to the rest of the state, are not found in this community. Makoko lacks basic amenities like roads or a transport system, schools, healthcare, and electricity. The waste disposal system of the community is almost non-existent as the residents of this community dispose of their excreta straight into the water.

Their security is also not provided for by the government seeing as they are an illegal settlement, so the residents of the area practice community policing.

5. There are Only Two Schools in Makoko

As surprising as this may seem, there are only 2 schools in the whole community housing over 400,000 people. One of these 2 schools is located on the land area of the community, and the other on the water part. The school on land is built with bricks while the one on the water is built with wood.

As a result, 5 in every 20 people below the age of 30 in Makoko are stark illiterates, while every 14 are educated between primary to secondary levels.

6. There is a High Fertility and Maternal Death Rate in the Community

There is a high fertility rate in Makoko, possibly due to the high illiteracy rate. Sadly, as high as these fertility rates are, there are as high rates of maternal deaths. Pregnancy has ended in tears for many households in this community.

The rate of maternal deaths is due to the lack of health facilities. The chief of the community noted that each household in the floating slum has lost a member due to pregnancy or childbirth-related issues. Most times the residents of this community lose their lives before they get to the closest Federal Medical Center which is in Ebute-Metta and is always overflowing with patients.

7. Fishing is the Main Source of Livelihood for the Residents of Makoko

Being a fishing village in the past, the fishing tradition has been passed down to generations and has become the main source of livelihood for the people of the floating slum. Some types of seafood that can be found in Makoko markets include croaker, barracuda, shiny nose, red snapper, prawns, and crabs. All these are found in large quantities and sold at relatively low prices.

Sadly, the waters of Makoko have become so polluted that it is becoming difficult to get a lot of fish, hence, a decline in their economy. A day’s catch in Makoko amounts to an average of only $2 dollars daily which makes life increasingly difficult for the people of this community.  Other professions of people in the slum include salt making and sawmills.

8. The Canoe is More than a Means of Transportation in Makoko

The major and only source of transportation in this slum is through the canoe in the murky waters of Makoko. However, transportation is not the only use of the canoe in this floating slum. The canoes are also used as either mobile or static shops in this community, where they sell water, food, and other household products.

9. The People of Makoko have Been facing Eviction for over a Decade

Since 2012, over 200 people were displaced after a demolition exercise by the government of Lagos state. The residents of this community were barely given a 72-hour notice before the demolition.

The government of the state said that the residents of the community were causing an environmental nuisance and posed a security threat to the people of the state. They also added that the government wanted to utilize the waterfront, as the floating slum was not part of the state government’s plans.

See Also: 10 Shocking Beauty Practices Across Africa

10. The Urbanization of the Floating Slum is Underway

After the demolition of parts of the slum in 2012, the people of Makoko have been pleading with the government to allow them to live in their community as it is the only home known to most of them.

The government of Lagos state through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has agreed to reach a meeting point with the community. They have decided to collaborate with the communities of the waterfront to create and implement an urban upgrading plan that will create housing, tourism opportunities, economic development, funding strategies, and an institutional framework for the floating slum.

The post Interesting Facts About Makoko, Africa’s Biggest Floating Slum appeared first on WeAfrique.

At present, Sudan is the least developed country in the region with a GDP of $203.040 (PPP estimation) and $30.808 billion (nominal). In general, there are different criteria used to judge the most developed countries. The tool given by United Nations is Human Development Index (HDI). This means that the development of a nation does not only rely on its economic growth but also on human development such as long and healthy life, standard of living, and literacy level.

All 7 countries in North Africa with Algeria and Their Development Ranking

1. Algeria

In terms of development in Northern Africa, Algeria leads. It is also ranked 91 in the world and 3rd in Africa. Currently, it has a rising development level in the aspect of the Human Development Index (HDI).

The country is recorded as one of the most educated countries with not less than an 80% of literacy rate while its unemployment rate is about 31.9% in 2021, per The World Bank Data.

Using the UN criteria in judging developed countries, the life expectancy of Algeria is 77, based on the 2020 World bank review. Also, the economy of the country rises over the years. As of 2021, the economy rose by about 3.9% and its major source of wealth is oil and gas.

2. Tunisia

Tunisia has one of the richest collections of museums in Africa and in the aspect of development, it is the 95th in the world, 4th in Africa, and 2nd in Northern Africa.

Its HDI value is 0.740 in 2022 and has increased from the previous year with 0.002.

Looking at the development rate of the country, the employment rate may be ahead of some African countries, yet, like many other countries, there is about a 16.82% rate of unemployment. Nonetheless,

In the aspect of life expectancy, it is 77.17 and has increased from its previous 76.98 space in 2021 and 76.79 in 2020.

Its economy has been described as the 128th freest in the 2022 index with a freedom score is 54.2. The country is known for the heavy export of Insulated Wire, and Pure Olive Oil among products.

3. Libya

Per Human Development Index, Libya is the 6th most developed country in Africa and 105 in the world. It is known for being one of the top 5 most educated countries in Africa with a more than 90% literacy rate.

Although the country’s economy has suffered over the years, it has been recorded as the richest African country in oil in 2021 with 48.4 billion barrels, followed by Nigeria with 36.9 billion.

4. Egypt

Egypt is one of the most developed countries in Africa and its civilization dates as far back as the 4th millennium BCE.

As regards the development of the country per HD1, it is the 4th in North Africa, 8th in Africa, and 116 in the world.

In terms of the human development level, it has about 71.2% of literacy (2017 statistics) with an annual average growth rate of about 4%. While it may have a relatively good economy with the highest GDP in North Africa, its health sector has been reported by Wikipedia to be underfunding with only 4.75% of the country’s GDP.

5. Morocco

Morocco is known for its human development since the AC when it founded the first and still operating University, Al-Quaraouiyine (Al-Qarawiyin). 

The literacy level is 73.75% which was recorded in 2018 and may have increased over the years.

Furthermore, its HDI value is 0.612 in females and 0.734 in males while its life expectancy is 77.9 in females and 75.4 in males.

In terms of infrastructural development, the country boasts of being one of the most beautiful countries in Africa and is known for harboring some major landmark architectural settings in North Africa.

In terms of economy, the country ranks as the 5th largest economy in Africa. It is known for generating income from car exports, mixed mineral or chemical fertilizers, insulated wire, and phosphoric acid.

See Also: Safest Countries In Africa

6. Mauritania

The Arab country prides itself as one of the most developed countries in North Africa. Per HDI, it is the 6th in North Africa, 24th in Africa, and 157 in the world.

This criterion is judged based on its 53.50% rate of literacy while the country spends an approximate 3.3% of its gross domestic product on health. There is also a 63.7 health expectancy in the country.

More to this, its death rate expectancy has appreciated significantly from 73.4 years in 2019 as compared to 2000 when the expectancy was 66.8 years.

Looking at the economic development of the country, it has recorded growth over the years. By 2022, it is estimated at 4% and may reach 4.2%.

7. Sudan

Sudan is the 8th most developed country in Africa in terms of HD1. It is the 36th in Africa, and 170.

The country has experienced a decrease in GDP growth rate over the years. United Nations has labeled it the least developed. Nonetheless, its literacy level grows significantly and is at present about 60.70% with an annual change of 7.18%.

The post Countries In North Africa, Rank In Development appeared first on WeAfrique.

Among the countries, most have only one capitals while other have more. South Africa has 3, making it the African country with the most capitals. The country’s capitals are divided into executive capital, legislative capital, and a judicial capital.

In the aspect of currencies, Tunisian Dinar, Libyan Dinar, and Ghanaian Cedi are the strongest currencies in the continent.

Here is a list of  all African countries, their indepent dates, the counties they got independence from, their currencies, and capitals.

Northern Africa

1. Algeria

• Capital: Algiers (Arabic – Al-Jazāʾir)
• Independence: 1962
• Currency: Algerian dinar

2. Egypt

• Capital: Cairo
• Independence: 13 June 1953
• Currency: Egyptian pound

3. Libya

• Capital: Tripoli
• Independence: 10 February 194
• Independence from: Italy
• Currency: Libyan Dinar

4. Morocco

• Capital: Rabat
• Independence: March 2, 1956
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham

5. Sudan

• Capital: Khartoum
• Independence: 1 January 1956
• Independence from: United Kingdom and Egypt
• Currency: Sudanese Pound

6. Tunisia

• Capital: Tunis
• Independence: 20 March 1956
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Tunisian Dinar

Estern African Countries, Their Capitals, Independence, and Currency

7. Burundi

• Capital: Gitega
• Independence: 1 July 1962
• Independence from: Belgium
• Currency: Burundian Franc

8. Comoros

• Capital: Moroni
• Independence: 6 July, 1975
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Comorian Franc (KMF)

9. Djibouti

• Capital: Djibouti
• Independence: 1 July 1962
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Djiboutian Franc (DJF)

10. Eritrea

• Capital: Asmara (Asmera)
• Independence: 24 May 1993
• Seperated from: Ethiopea
• Currency: Nakfa (ERN)

11. Ethiopia

• Capital: Addis Ababa
• Not colonized
• Currency: Birr (ETB)

12. Kenya

• Capital: Nairobi
• Independence: 12 December 1963 (Dominion), 12 December 1964 (Republic)
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

13. Malawi

• Capital: Lilongwe
• Independence: 6 July 1964
• Independence from: British Empire
• Currency: Malawian Kwacha (MWK)

14. Mauritius

• Capital: Port Louis
• Independence: March 12, 1968
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)

15. Mozambique

• Capital: Maputo
• Independence: 25 June 1975
• Independence from: Portugal
• Currency: Metical (MZN)

16. Rwanda

• Capital: Kigali
• Independence: 1 July 1962
• Independence from: Belgium
• Currency: Rwanda Franc (RWF)

17. Seychelles

• Capital: Victoria
• Independence: 29 June 1976
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

18. Somalia

• Capital: Mogadishu
• Independence: I July 1960
• Independence from: Italy and United Kingdom
• Currency: Somali Shilling (SOS)

19. South Sudan

• Capital: Juba
• Independence: 9 July 2005 (Autonomy), 9 July 2011 (Declared and recognized)
• Independence from: Sudan
• Currency: South Sudanese Pound (SSP)

20. Tanzania

• Capital: Dodoma
• Independence: 
• Independence from: United Kingdom and German Empire
• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

21. Uganda

• Capital: Kampala
• Independence: 9 October 1962
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

22. Zambia

• Capital: Lusaka
• Independence: 24 October 1964
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)

23. Zimbabwe

• Capital: Harare
• Independence: 18 April 1980
• Independence from: United Kindgdom
• Currency: Zimbabwean dollar

Countries Middle Africa in Middle Africa, Capitals, Independence, and Currency

24. Angola

• Capital: Tunis
• Independence: 20 March 1956
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Tunisian Dinar

25. Cameroon

• Capital: Yaoundé
• Independence: 1 January 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA Franc (franc CFA)

26. Central African Republic

• Capital: Bangui
• Independence: 13 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA Franc (XAF)

27. Chad

• Capital: N’Djamena
• Independence: 12 July 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)

28. Democratic Republic of Congo

• Capital: Kinshasa
• Independence: 30 June 1960
• Independence from: Belgium
• Currency: Congolese Franc (CDF)

29. Republic of the Congo

• Capital: Brazzaville
• Independence:15 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)

30. Equatorial Guinea

• Capital: Malobo
• Independence: 13 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA franc, XAF

31. Gabon

• Capital: Libreville
• Independence: 17 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Central African CFA, XAF

32. São Tomé and Príncipe

• Capital: São Tomé
• Independence: 12 July 1975
• Independence from: Portugal
• Currency: Dobra (STN)

See Also: The Largest City In Africa: Lagos And 9 Others

Southern African Countries

33. Botswana

• Capital: Gaborone
• Independence: 30 September 1966
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Pula (BWP)

34. Eswatini (Swaziland)

• Capital: Mbanene (executive), Lobamba (legislative)
• Independence: 6 September 1968
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Lilangeni (SZL), South African Rand (ZAR)

35. Lesotho

• Capital: Maseru
• Independence: 4 October 1966
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Lesotho Loti (LTL), South African Rand (ZAR)

36. Madagascar

• Capital: Antananarivo
• Independence: 26 June 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Ariary (MGA)

37. Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek
• Independence: 21 March 1990
• Independence from: South Africa
• Currency: Namibian dollar (NAD), South African Rand (ZAR)

38. Southern African (RSA)

• Capital: Pretoria (executive), Cape Town (Legistlative), Bloemfontein (Judicial)
• Independence
  • Union: 31 May 1910
  • Self-governance: 11 December 1931
  • Republic: 31 May 1961
  • Democratisation: 27 April 1994
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)

Western Africa

39. Benin

• Capital: Porto-Novo
• Independence: 1 August 1960, 1 October 1960, 31 July 1961
• Independence from: France, United Kingdom, Portugal
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

40. Burkina Faso

• Capital: Ouagadougou
• Independence: 5 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

41. Cape Verde

• Capital: Praia
• Independence: 5 July 1975
• Independence from: Portugal
• Currency: Cape Verdeab Escudo (CVE)

42. Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

• Capital: Yamoussoukro
• Independence: 7 August 1960
• Independence from: France
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

43. The Gambia

• Capital: Banjul
• Independence: 18 February 1965
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Dalasi (GMD)

44. Ghana

• Capital: Accra
• Independence: 6 March 1957 (Dominion), 1 July 1960 (Republic)
• Independence from: United Kingdom
• Currency: Cedi (GHS)

45. Guinea

• Capital: Conakry
• Independence: 2 October 1958
• Independence from: France
• Currency: Guinean Franc (GNF)

46. Guinea-Bissua

• Capital: Bissau
• Independence: 24 September 1973 (declared), 10 September 1974 (recognized)
• Independence from: Portugal
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

47. Liberia

• Capital: Monrovia
• Independence: 26 July 1847 (declared), 5 February 1862 (recognized)
• Independence from: The United States of America (American Colonization Society)
• Currency: Liberian Dollar (LRD)

48. Mali

• Capital: Bamako
• Independence: 20 June 1960
• Independence From: France 
• Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)

49. Mauritania

• Capital: Nouakchott
• Independence: 28 November 1960
• Independence From: France
• Currency: Ouguiya (MRU)

50. Niger

• Capital: Niamey 
• Independence: France
• Independence From: Republic Proclaimed 18 December 1958 (Declared 3 August 1960)
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

51. Nigeria

• Capital: Abuja
• Independence: United Kingdom
• Independence From: 1 October 1960 (Federation 1 October 1963)
• Currency: Naira (NGN)

52. Senegal

• Capital: Dakar
• Independence: 4 April 1960
• Independence From: France 
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

53. Sierra Leone

• Capital: Freetown
• Independence: United Kingdom 
• Independence From: Dominion 27 April 1961 (Republic 19 April 1971)
• Currency: Leone(SLL)

54. Togo

• Capital: Lome 
• Independence: 27 April 1960
• Independence From: France 
• Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)

The post African Countries And Their Capitals, Independence, And Currency appeared first on WeAfrique.

The continent is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean. Its land area is approximately 30,365,000 square km. It has 54 countries fully recognized by the United Nations, 2 independent states, and several territories controlled by non-African countries.

Smallest Countries in Africa

1. Seychelles 

• Capital City: Victoria
• Land Mass: 455 km²
• Population: 98,462
• Independence: June 29, 1976
• Official Languages: French, English, and Seychellois Creole

Not only is Seychelles the smallest country in Africa, but it is also one of the most beautiful locations on the continent. It is an Island located in the western Indian Ocean.

The country has a land mass of 455 km² and is famous for its beautiful chain of Islands. Seychelles is among the world’s leading countries to protect lands for threatened species.

The Island has no indigenous people, as most of them are descendants of immigrants who moved there, during the Napoleonic wars. However, the largest ethnic groups found in Seychelles are Africans, French, Indians, and Chinese.

Fun Fact: 

Seychelles has up to 115 different islands, some of which are still inhabited. The biggest Island is Mahé which has become the choicest destination for tourists.

2. São Tomé and Príncipe

• Capital City: Sao Tome City
• Land Mass: 1,001 km²
• Population: 219,161
• Independence: July 12, 1975
• Official Languages: Portuguese, Forro, Angolar, and Principense.

The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe is an island country located on the western equatorial coast of central Africa. It consists of two main islands, Sao Tome and Principe which were formed over 30 million years ago during the Oligocene era.

The country was named after St. Thomas the Apostle and the Prince of Portugal.

It is the second-smallest and second-least populous in Africa, with a landmass of 1,001 km². Just like Seychelles, the islands were inhabited until they were discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century.

The country gained its independence from Portugal on July 12, 1975, and has 4 official languages, Portuguese, Forro, Angolar, and Principense.

Fun Fact:

Despite being a small country, São Tomé and Príncipe is rich in biodiversity. It boasts of several native animals including the Sao Tome shrew, various species of bats, the smallest ibis in the world, and the largest sunbird in the world.

3. Mauritius

• Capital City: Port Loius
• Land Mass: 2,040 km²
• Population: 1.266 million
• Independence: March 12, 1968
• Official Languages: English and French

Officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, it is an island located in the Indian Ocean and was first discovered by Arab sailors. It was first called Dina Arobi.

The island has been controlled by different ethnicities including Portuguese sailors, the Dutch, and the French. It was renamed “Isle de France” before it was seized by the United Kingdom.

The country has a land mass of 2,040 km² and is the third smallest country in Africa. It has 9 states.

Mauritius gained its independence from the United Kingdom on March 12, 1968, and became a republic on March 12, 1992. Its official languages are English and French.

Fun Fact:

Mauritius has two UNESCO Worl Heritage Sites, the Aapravasi Ghat and Le Mome Brabant.

4. Comoros

• Capital City: Moroni
• Land Mass: 2,235 km²
• Population: 869,595
• Independence: December 22, 1974
• Official Languages: Comorian, Arabic, and French

The Union of Comoros is an island located in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Southern Africa. It is located between Mozambique and Madagascar. The island consists of three major islands, Ngazidja, Nzwani, and Mwali, and numerous smaller islands.

The name Comoros originated from the Arabic word “Juzur al Qamar” which means “Islands of the Moon”.

It has a total landmass of 2,235 km². Its first settlers of the island were Austronesian settlers, then it was colonized by the French. It was a French colony and part of the island of Mayotte until its independence on July 6, 1975.

Comoros was declared the Federal Islamic Republic of Comoros on October 1, 1978, and later, the Union of Comoros on December 23, 2001.  Its official languages are Comorian, French, and Arabic.

Fun Fact:

The country has a unique flora which is attributed to the “ylang-ylang” or perfume tree. The tree is used to produce essential oils and perfumes.

5. Cape Verde

• Capital City: Praia
• Land Mass: 4,033 km²
• Population: 555,988
• Independence: July 5, 1975
• Official Languages: Portuguese, English, and Cape Verdean Creole

The Republic of Cabo Verde is an archipelago, a chain of islands, located in the central Atlantic Ocean. The Island boasts of 10 volcanic islands with a combined land mass of 4,033 km². Its islands are divided into the Barlavento and Sotavento Islands.

The archipelago was inhabited until the 15th century when it was discovered and colonized by Portuguese explorers. Cape Verde because of its location, played a vital role in the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. Its involvement in the slave trade caused its economy to boom and it suffered after the slave trade was abolished.

Cape Verde gained its independence from Portugal on July 5, 1975. Its official languages are Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole.

Fun Fact:

There are more Cape Verdeans living outside Cape Verde than in the country.

6. The Gambia

• Capital City: Banjul
• Land Mass: 11,300 km²
• Population: 2.417 million
• Independence: February 18,1965
• Official Languages: English

The republic of The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa. It is surrounded by Senegal and the Atlantic Ocean. The country is located on both sides of the Gambia River from which the country gets its name. The river empties into the Atlantic Ocean.11.5% of the country’s area is covered by water.

The widest point in the country measures about 30 miles and the entire country has a land mass of 11,300 km².

It was formerly known as the Senegambia confederation, which was a loose confederation between Gambia and Senegal. However, Senegambia was dissolved on September 30, 1989, and the Gambia became a country of its own.

The country was in the center of the slave trade and has a museum to educate people about the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in the area.

It gained its independence from the United Kingdom on February 18, 1965. The Gambia’s official language is English and the major source of income is Farming and fishing.

Fun Fact:

The Gambia is also called a birdwatcher’s paradise due to its large collection of birds. The country has 540 species of birds in its forests and river banks.

7. Eswatini (Swaziland)

• Capital City: Mbabane (Executive) and Lobamba (Legislative)
• Land Mass: 17,364 km²
• Population: 1.16 million
• Independence: September 6, 1968
• Official Languages: Swazi and English

Swaziland is a small landlocked country, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. It covers an area of 17,364 km². It was officially renamed the Kingdom of Eswatini in 2018.

The first settlers of the country were Khoisan hunter-gatherers. However, they were largely replaced by the Nguni during the great Bantu migrations, when people originated from the Great Lakes region of central and eastern Africa.

The government is an absolute monarchy and the last of its kind in Africa. It has two capitals, Mbabane, the executive capital, and Lobamba, the legislative capital. Its official languages are Swazi and English.

Fun Fact:

Eswatini is one of the few places where black and white rhinos co-habit close to each other

8. Djibouti

• Capital City: Djibouti City
• Land Mass: 23,200 km²
• Population: 988,002
• Independence: June 27, 1977
• Official Languages: French and Arabic

Officially the republic of Djibouti is a country located in the Horn of Africa. It is bordered by Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, The Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. The country has a land mass of 23,200 km², which makes it the 8th smallest country in Africa.

It was dominated by the French during the “scramble for Africa”, and became part of the french colony of Somaliland between 1888 to 1977. It later became the capital in 1894.

The country was renamed the “French Territory of Afars and the Issa”. It is referred to as the most urbanized country in sub-Saharan Africa. Djibouti gained its independence from France on June 27, 1977. Its official languages are Arabic and French.

Fun Fact:

Lac Assal, a crater lake in Djibouti is the second saltiest water body in the world. It is 10 times saltier than the sea. It is also the lowest point in Africa and the 3rd in the world, after the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee.

See Also: The Largest City In Africa: Lagos And 9 Others

9. Rwanda

• Capital City: Kigali
• Land Mass: 26,338 km²
• Population: 12.95 million
• Independence: July 1, 1962
• Official Languages: Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili

The Republic of Rwanda is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley of Central Africa. It is the smallest country in East Africa occupying 26,338 km². It is also the most densely populated country on the continent.

Its first settlers were Twa hunter-gatherers, and later Bantu people migrated to the country for farming. During the Berlin conference of 1884, the territory was a German Empire, and it was declared part of German East Africa.

In 1894, Rwanda and Burundi were combined by Germany as one territory called Ruanda-Urundi, until it got its independence from Belgium in 1962. Its official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, English, and Swahili.

Fun Fact:

The capital city of Rwanda is the cleanest city in Africa as the government observes sanitation every Saturday and has banned the use of plastic bags and sachets for environmental protection.

10. Burundi

• Capital City: Gitega
• Land Mass: 27,834 km²
• Population: 11.89 million
• Independence: July 1, 1962
• Official Languages: French, English, and Kirundi

The Republic of Burundi is a landlocked country situated in the Great Rift Valley, where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. It has a land mass of 27,834 km² and is bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, DR Congo, and Lake Tanganyika.

After the Second World War, it was transformed into a United Nations Trust Territory. It was ruled by the Germans and Belgians as Ruanda-Urundi. They have been under common rule until the time of the European invasion of Africa.

It gained independence from Belgium on July 1, 1962, and became a republic on 28 November 1966. Its official languages are Kirundi, French, and English. Burundi has 2 capital cities, Gitega, the political capital, and Bujumbura, the economic capital.

Fun Fact:

Lake Tanganyika is the world’s longest freshwater lake, the second-deepest, and the second-largest in volume. It is also the second-largest of the African Great Lakes after Lake Victoria

11. Equatorial Guinea

• Capital City: Malabo
• Land Mass: 28,051 km²
• Population: 1.403 million
• Independence: October 12, 1968
• Official Languages: Spanish, Portuguese, and English

The Republic of Equatorial Guinea is a small country on the west coast of Central Africa with a land mass of 28,051 km². It was formerly known as the colony of Spanish Guinea.

The Portuguese were the first to come to the country and they colonized in 1474. They were handed over to Spain and became a Spanish colony after Portugal signed a treaty with King Charles of Spain.

Equatorial Guinea received its independence from Spain on October 12, 1968. Its official languages are Spanish, French, and Portuguese. It is the only African country to have Spanish as an official language.

Fun Fact:

The Pygmies of Equatorial Guinea are the shortest people in the world. Their height is about half of the height of an average human, and some of them only reach the knees of an average man.

The post Smallest Country In Africa: Seychelles And 10 Others appeared first on WeAfrique.

The Mediterranean Sea borders the continent to the north, The Isthmus of Suez and the Red Sea to the northeast, The Indian Ocean to the southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

Africa is divided into five main geographical regions which are North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa. The continent consists of 54 countries, including 6 islands and 2 disputed areas.

10 Largest Cities in Africa by Population

10. Mogadishu

Mogadishu locally known as Xamar is the largest and the capital city of Somalia. It is located in the coastal Banadir region on the Indian Ocean and is considered to be a municipality.

It was one of the first Muslim settlements in East Africa, which was established by Arab immigrants from the Persian Gulf. Its location attracted traders who traded across the Indian Ocean with Persia, India, and China.

Mogadishu was a powerful and commercially important port city. Unfortunately, the city experienced more than two decades of violence, and government instability has caused a terrible amount of damage to its economy.

Interesting Facts About Mogadishu

• Somalia has been plagued by war since 1991 and the capital city was no exception, in fact, it was the most hit. Its schools and city buildings were transformed into refugee camps
• The main industries in the city include food, beverages, and textiles
• Mogadishu has the most port traffic in Somalia
• The city is the first part of the United Nations peacekeeping forces during Operation Restore Hope in Somalia

9. Abidjan

Formerly known as Abiathar, Abidjan is the most populated French-speaking country in West Africa and the largest city on Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire). It is considered the cultural crossroads of West Africa.

The city developed from a village, at first it depended on the wharf at Port-Bouët, on the sandbar’s ocean shore, and rose to become the shipping and financial center of French-speaking West Africa.

Abidjan was nicknamed “Paris of West Africa” because of its prosperity and growth which was a result of the long economic boom it experienced.

Fascinating Facts about Abidjan

• Abidjan is the economic capital of the Ivory coast, while Yamoussoukro is the political capital
• It houses most of the foreign embassies and most political building
• It is the 3rd largest French-speaking country in the world after Paris and Kinshasa
• The city has an impressive skyline and is situated close to a lagoon

8. Addis Ababa

8th on this list is the capital city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa. It is located on a well-watered plateau, surrounded by hills and mountains. It is the 3rd highest capital in the world.

The capital city of Ethiopia was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II, at the site of a hot spring chosen by Empress Taytu Betul.

It is also called “African Capital” due to its historical, diplomatic, and political significance. Addis Ababa is surrounded by a greenbelt of forest and semi-subsistence cultivated lands. It has a population of 5.2 million as of 2021.

Interesting Facts about Addis Ababa

• It is the highest capital city in Africa
• The city started off as a military encampment that housed the palace of the emperor
• There is a square in the city built in recognition of Mexico for their support during Italy’s occupation
• The city was occupied by Italians for 5 years and was called Italian East Africa

7. Alexandria

Fondly called “Bride of the Mediterranean”, Alexandria is a port city located on the Mediterranean sea in northern Egypt. It is the sixth-largest city in the Arab world and the eighth-largest in Africa.

The city was founded by Alexander the Great. It houses the Pharos, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and the renowned Library of Alexandria.

It developed from a small port known as Rhatokis after the arrival of Alexander the Great, who laid out the basic design for the city before he left for his conquest of Persia. It would later become famous for being one of the centers of early Christianity.

The city is a popular tourist destination and also an important industrial center because of its natural gas and oil pipelines from the Suez canal.

Interesting Facts about the 7th Largest City in Africa

• Alexandria was  once the vital cultural center of the ancient civilization
• It housed The Royal Library of Alexandria, which was once the largest library in the world
• Most of the ancient city of Alexandria including Heracleion and Canopus sunk beneath the harbor due to earthquakes and is called Abu Qir Sunken cities Museum
• It houses one of the world’s largest necropolises
• The city has the oldest tram system in Africa dating back to 1860

6. Nairobi

Fondly called the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya, located in the south-central of the country. It originated in the late 1890s as a colonial railway settlement. Nairobi got its name from a water hole known to the Maasai tribe as  “Enkare Nairobi”. It was incorporated in 1900 as the township of Nairobi.

The city attracted a stream of migrants from rural Kenya and that made it become one of the largest cities in tropical Africa. It is the main industrial hub of the country.

Nairobi is located near eastern Africa’s agricultural heartland and houses the headquarters of important regional railways, harbors, and airways corporations. It is an energetic city that serves as a hub for wild and light life.

As of 2021, it has a population of 5.2 million people in its 696 square kilometer surface area.

Fascinating Facts About Nairobi

• It has been declared as one of Africa’s top 10 destinations
• The city hosts Kenya National Archive and Kenya National Theatre
• Sheng a language spoken in Nairobi  is a mix of Kiswahili and English, originating from there
• The Nairobi National Park is the only national park that borders a capital city

5. Johannesburg

At number 5 of the largest cities in Africa is one of the capitals of South Africa, Johannesburg. It sprang up in 1886 when gold was discovered in the area, causing a lot of people to move there in search of opportunities.

The city was named after two officials of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR), Johannes Meyer and Johannes Rissik. Its 1,645 square kilometers of land is home to over 5 million people.

Fondly referred to as Jo’burg, this city has been a site for many iconic events including the Rugby World Cup in 1995 and the FIFA World Cup in 2010. It is also considered the economic hub of the continent.

Facts About the 5th Largest City in Africa

• Johannesburg is 2000m above sea level so the air is not as dense
• It has been rebuilt 4 times
• It has the world’s largest man-made forest
• The tallest building in Africa is in Jo’burg
• It has the largest hospital in the world, The Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital, which has the capacity to serve up to 3.5 people.

4. Luanda

Angola’s largest and capital city, Luanda, is the 4th largest city in Africa. It was formerly called São Paulo de Luanda. The city is located on the north Atlantic coast of northern Angola and has one of the country’s busiest ports.

It was founded in 1576 by Paulo Dias de Novais. The city was initially occupied by the Portuguese, and it later became the administrative center of the Portuguese colony of Angola. Angola was the major outlet for slave traffic to Brazil.

The total land area is 871 square miles which is almost 2 times the size of Greater London and is home to 2,107,684 people as recorded in 2014, which gives a population density of about 2,420 people per square meter.

Interesting Facts About Luanda

• It was ranked number 3 in the most expensive city in the world for expatriates to live in
• It is the 3rd most populous Portuguese-speaking city in the world
• Two-thirds of the people of Luanda survive on  less than $2 a day

3. Kinshasa

Kinshasa is the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is famous for its music which spread across the continent and all over the world. It is the second largest French-speaking city in the world, after Paris. The city evolved from two villages, Nshasa and Ntamo, which would later be called Kintamo. It was dominated by Bateke Fishermen and traders.

Kinshasa’s population is estimated to be around 13.3 million and 64% of the population is said to be living below the poverty line due to corruption and perennial conflicts. It is divided into four districts, Funa, Lukunga, Mont Amba, and Tshangu.

Interesting Facts About the 3rd Largest City in Africa

• It has the largest French-speaking population in Africa
• The city has a sharp contrast in living conditions, while part of the city lives in affluence, the other parts live in extreme poverty
• Robot Monitor traffic within the city

2. Cairo

The city of Cairo, the second largest city in Africa is the capital city of Egypt. It is the largest metropolitan area in Africa, the Middle East,  the Arab World, and the 15th largest in the world. It is located west of the Gulf of Suez and the Suez Canal, south of the Mediterranean Sea.

Also known as the city of a thousand minarets, the city is famous for its numerous mosques, castles, and churches. Cairo also houses the world’s second higher learning Al-Azhar University and the headquarters of the Arab League.

Herald the cradle of civilization, has a population of over 20.4 million, growing at a 2.6% annually. It is Egypt’s economic hub with two-thirds of the country’s GDP generated in the greater metropolitan section. Cairo is also a vibrant hub for tourism and commerce.

Interesting Facts About Cairo

• The city houses the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
• It is the gateway to the Nile
• Cairo has the world’s oldest and biggest statue, The Sphinx, and the house of Mummification
• Cairo Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site

See Also: List Of All Francophone Countries In Africa

1. Lagos

The largest city in Africa, Lagos is located in Nigeria and is the economic capital of the country. Located at the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline.  It is the 7th fastest growing city in the world with a population of 24.6 million, according to the Lagos State Government.

The city’s first settlers were Yoruba fishermen who called it “Oko”. By the 16th century, the area was dominated by the Benin people who called it “Eko”. The Portuguese were the first foreign people to land in Lagos, and they were given a monopoly on the slave trade. It is said that the largest city in Africa flourished from the slave trade.

Lagos is made of up islands, sandbars, and lagoons. Its ports consist of Apapa Quay which is the main outlet for Nigeria’s export.

Fascinating Facts About the Largest City in Africa

• It houses the NECOM house towers, the tallest building in West Africa
• The third mainland bridge was the longest bridge in Africa measuring 11.8km until 1996. It is now ranked second.
• It is the smallest state in Nigeria by landmass but the highest by population
• It has the largest floating slum in the world
• Lagos is also known as the city that doesn’t sleep and Africa’s seat of entertainment.

The post The Largest City In Africa: Lagos And 9 Others appeared first on WeAfrique.