Central African Republic: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Central African Republic 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Central African Republic: na
  • Happiness Score Central African Republic:na

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Central African Republic. CF.

    Central African Republic is landlocked country in Central Africa with a semi-presidential republic political structure.

  • Known for its rich cultural diversity and traditional art forms such as woodcarving and pottery.
  • Economically significant for its natural resources, including diamonds, gold, and uranium.
  • Central African Republic – Overview

    Early History:

    The Central African Republic (CAR) has a rich history dating back to the 7th century AD when the Bantu-speaking people settled in the region. The Baka people, one of the oldest indigenous groups, have inhabited the forest areas for over 5,000 years.

    Kingdoms and Empires:

    In the 16th century, the Bangassou Kingdom emerged as a powerful state in the region. The Dar al-Kuti Empire, centered in the north, also held significant influence during the 17th and 18th centuries.

    Colonial Period:

    The Central African Republic came under French colonial rule in the late 19th century, initially as part of French Equatorial Africa. The French established the Ubangi-Shari territory in 1903, which later became the Central African Republic.

    Independence and Modern Era:

    The country gained independence from France on August 13, 1960, and was renamed the Central African Republic. Since then, the nation has faced political instability, coups, and civil conflicts. The most recent civil war, which began in 2012, has severely impacted the country’s development.

    Current Political Situation:

    The Central African Republic is a semi-presidential republic with a democratically elected president and a prime minister. However, the government has struggled to maintain control due to ongoing conflicts between armed groups and a lack of resources.

    International Relations:

    CAR maintains diplomatic relations with many countries, but its international relations have been strained due to the ongoing civil conflict. The United Nations and regional organizations have been involved in peacekeeping efforts and providing humanitarian aid.

    Human Development and Economy:

    The Central African Republic has one of the lowest human development indices in the world. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and the export of natural resources, such as diamonds and timber. However, conflict and poor infrastructure have hindered economic development.

    Cultural Highlights:

    The Central African Republic is culturally diverse, with over 80 ethnic groups and languages. Christianity and traditional beliefs are widely practiced. The country is known for its rich traditions in music, dance, and craftsmanship.

    The Central African Republic faces significant challenges, including political instability, poverty, and underdevelopment. However, with international support and effective governance, the country has the potential to address these issues and achieve sustainable development.

    Travel Tips for Central African Republic

    Here are some essential travel tips for tourists visiting the Central African Republic:

    • Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from November to April, is generally the most favorable time to travel, as roads are more accessible and the risk of malaria is lower.
    • Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Greet elders and authority figures with respect.
    • Safety Precautions: Exercise extreme caution due to the ongoing civil conflict and high crime rates. Avoid traveling to areas with active fighting and follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy.
    • Must-See Landmarks: Visit the capital city of Bangui, explore the Dzanga-Sangha National Park, famous for its lowland gorillas, and witness the unique Pygmy culture in the rainforests.
    • Culinary Experiences: Try traditional dishes like moambe (palm nut stew), mashed plantains, and grilled meats. Local produce like cassava, yams, and tropical fruits are also widely available.

    Note: Due to the ongoing civil conflict and security concerns, it is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and consult travel advisories before visiting the Central African Republic.

Main facts

Location

Central African Republic is a landlocked country located in central Africa. It is bordered by Chad to the north, Sudan and South Sudan to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, the Republic of the Congo to the southwest, and Cameroon to the west.

Map References

Central African Republic is situated in Central Africa.

Area – Comparative

The total area of Central African Republic is 622,984 sq km, which is slightly smaller than the state of Texas.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Central African Republic has a total land boundary of 5,920 km, which includes borders with the following countries:

  • Cameroon (901 km)
  • Chad (1,556 km)
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo (1,747 km)
  • Republic of the Congo (467 km)
  • South Sudan (1,055 km)
  • Sudan (174 km)

Maritime Claims

Central African Republic is a landlocked country and has no maritime claims.

Climate

Central African Republic has a tropical climate with a distinct dry season (November to April) and a wet season (May to October). The northern parts of the country are generally drier, while the southern regions are more humid.

Terrain

The terrain of Central African Republic is predominantly a vast, flat to rolling plateau with occasional hills and mountains. Notable features include the Fertit Hills in the northeast and the Guéra Massif in the north-central region.

Elevation Extremes

The lowest point in Central African Republic is the Oubangui River at 335 m, while the highest point is Mont Ngaoui at 1,420 m.

Natural Resources

Central African Republic has significant natural resources, including diamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil, and hydropower.

Major Bodies of Water

The major rivers in Central African Republic include the Ubangi River (shared with the Democratic Republic of the Congo), the Chari River (shared with Chad), the Mbomou River, and the Sangha River (shared with Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo).

Natural Hazards

Central African Republic is prone to several natural hazards, including hot, dry, dusty harmattan winds, seasonal flooding, and occasional droughts.

Geography – Notes

Central African Republic is a landlocked country with a significant portion of its territory covered by dense tropical rainforests, particularly in the southwestern region. The country’s geography has played a crucial role in its history and economic development, with the lack of access to the sea posing challenges for trade and transportation.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 35.60%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 297. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 8.20%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  6.61111120.939444.
  • Capital: The capital of Central African Republic is  Bangui
  • Major Cities:
    • Bangui – population: 734,350
    • Bimbo – population: 124,176
    • Mbaïki – population: 67,132
    • Berbérati – population: 61,815
    • Kaga-Bandoro – population: 56,109
  • Population: 4,745,185
  • Area(Km2): 622984
  • Population Density( P/Km²):8. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:236
  • Official Language(s):Central African Republic is Sango (official), French (official), and other African languages. Sango is spoken by 95% of the population.
  • Currency:

Main Economic Indicators

The Central African Republic’s economy is one of the world’s least developed, with an estimated GDP of just $2.38 billion in 2022. The economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and the export of natural resources such as timber, diamonds, and gold. Key economic challenges include low levels of development, widespread poverty, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure. Recent economic policies have focused on fiscal consolidation, improving governance, and attracting foreign investment.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 4.4% (World Bank data)
2022: 5.7% (estimate, International Monetary Fund)

Credit Ratings

Fitch Ratings: Not Rated
Moody’s: Not Rated
Standard & Poor’s: Not Rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 34.1%
Industry: 15.2%
Services: 50.7% (2017 estimates, World Bank)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural: Cotton, coffee, tobacco, millet, sorghum, peanuts, cassava, yams, bananas, timber
Industrial: Gold and diamond mining, logging, brewing, textiles, footwear, assembly of bicycles and motorcycles

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 2.4 million (2017 estimate, World Bank)
Comparative Ranking: Not available

Current Account Balance

2021: -$113.1 million (World Bank data)
2022: -$129.9 million (estimate, International Monetary Fund)
Comparative Ranking: Not available

Exports and Imports

Exports (2021): $100.7 million (World Bank data)
Key Export Partners: China, Saudi Arabia, Cameroon, Germany, Belgium
Main Exports: Wood, diamonds, cotton, coffee, tobacco
Imports (2021): $515.5 million (World Bank data)
Key Import Partners: France, China, India, Cameroon, Belgium
Main Imports: Machinery and equipment, food, textiles, petroleum products

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves (2021): $369.5 million (World Bank data)
Gold Reserves (2021): Not available

  • GDP (Current US$):$2,220,307,369. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 8.60%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 73.30%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $1.41. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $0.37. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 3.68%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Noun: Central African / Central Africans
Adjective: Central African

2. Ethnic Groups

Major ethnic groups:
– Baya 33%
– Banda 27%
– Mandjia 13%
– Sara 10%
– Mbaika/Mbaka 7%
– Others (Yakoma, Bulgur, Zande, Nzakara, Gbaya, etc.) 10%

3. Religions

Religious affiliations:
– Protestant 51.4%
– Roman Catholic 29%
– Muslim 9.8%
– Indigenous beliefs 4.5%
– Other 5.3%

4. Age Structure

Population distribution by age group:
– 0-14 years: 39.58%
– 15-64 years: 57.71%
– 65 years and over: 2.71%

5. Dependency Ratios

Dependency ratios:
– Total dependency ratio: 73.5%
– Youth dependency ratio: 68.6%
– Elderly dependency ratio: 4.9%

6. Median Age

Median age:
– Total: 20.9 years
– Males: 20.5 years
– Females: 21.3 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Relevant lifestyle statistics:
– Obesity rate (adult population): 7.9%
– Alcohol consumption per capita (liters of pure alcohol): 2.3
– Tobacco use prevalence (adults aged 15+): 27.9%

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 52.8. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 37.4%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:35.35. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:11. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 4.72. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 3.7%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 1,982,064. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):39.60%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Central African Armed Forces comprise the Army, Air Force, and National Gendarmerie. The Army is the largest branch and includes units like the Presidential Guard, Rapid Intervention Battalion, and Special Intervention Unit. The Air Force operates transport aircraft and helicopters. The National Gendarmerie is a paramilitary force responsible for maintaining internal security.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP (last 5 years):

  • 2022: 1.7%
  • 2021: 1.8%
  • 2020: 1.7%
  • 2019: 1.5%
  • 2018: 1.3%

The Central African Republic ranks among the countries with the lowest military expenditure globally.

Personnel Strengths

Total active-duty military personnel: 8,500

  • Army: 7,500
  • Air Force: 500
  • National Gendarmerie: 500

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

The Central African Armed Forces operate mostly older Soviet-era equipment, including armored vehicles, artillery, and small arms. The Air Force has a limited number of transport aircraft and helicopters. Future acquisitions are expected to focus on modernizing and replacing aging equipment.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Voluntary military service from ages 18-28. No mandatory military service currently in place.

Military Deployments

The Central African Republic has no significant overseas military deployments. It contributes a small contingent to the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

Strategic Military Notes

The Central African Armed Forces prioritize internal security and counter-insurgency operations against armed groups active in the country. Their defense strategy focuses on maintaining territorial integrity and stability. The military collaborates with French and UN peacekeeping forces for training and support.

  • Armed Forces Size: 9200. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 0.06
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 72.00%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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