World Happiness Report for Congo (Brazzaville) 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Congo (Brazzaville): 89
- Happiness Score Congo (Brazzaville):5.221
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:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- 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:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- 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.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- 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 Congo (Brazzaville). CG.
Congo (Brazzaville) is a country located in Central Africa with a political structure of a presidential republic. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music and dance, as well as its economic significance as a major oil producer in the region.
- It is home to the second largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon.
- The country gained independence from France in 1960.
- Congo (Brazzaville) is known for its diverse wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants.
Overview of Congo (Brazzaville)
Brief History
Early History: The region of present-day Congo was inhabited by Bantu-speaking peoples from at least the 5th century AD. The Kingdom of Kongo emerged in the late 14th century, becoming a major cultural and commercial center in Central Africa.
Kingdoms and Empires: The Kongo Kingdom reached its peak in the 15th and 16th centuries, engaging in trade with European powers. The Kingdom of Loango also flourished along the Atlantic coast during this period.
Colonial Period: French exploration of the Congo River basin began in the late 15th century. In 1880, the territory became part of the French Congo, later known as French Equatorial Africa.
Independence and Modern Era: Congo gained independence from France in 1960. The country experienced political instability and a Marxist-Leninist regime under President Marien Ngouabi in the 1960s and 1970s. Multi-party democracy was introduced in 1992, but civil wars erupted in the late 1990s. Denis Sassou Nguesso has ruled as President since 1997.
Current Political Situation: Congo is a semi-presidential republic with a strong executive presidency. President Sassou Nguesso has been in power since 1997, with the next presidential election scheduled for 2026.
International Relations: Congo maintains close ties with France and other former French colonies. It is a member of the African Union, OPEC, and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
Human Development and Economy: Congo’s economy relies heavily on oil and natural gas exports. It has significant potential for economic growth but faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and corruption.
Cultural Highlights: Congo is a diverse nation with over 60 ethnic groups. French is the official language, but numerous indigenous languages are also spoken. The country has a rich artistic tradition, including music, dance, and sculpture.
Pressing Challenges and Opportunities: Key challenges include political instability, corruption, poverty, and dependence on natural resources. Opportunities lie in diversifying the economy, improving governance, and investing in human development.
Travel Tips for Congo (Brazzaville)
Best Times to Visit: The dry season from June to August is generally the most comfortable time to visit, with mild temperatures and lower humidity.
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in public places. Greet with a handshake, and avoid pointing or using the left hand. Respect local customs and traditions.
Safety Precautions: Exercise caution and avoid traveling after dark. Avoid areas near the borders with Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo due to the risk of civil unrest and criminal activity.
Must-See Landmarks: Visit the Basilique Sainte Anne in Brazzaville, the Djoue and Loufoulakari Falls, and the Conkouati-Douli National Park for its diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches.
Culinary Experiences: Try local dishes such as poulet moamba (chicken with peanut sauce), mibiki (fish stew), and nganda (banana leaf-wrapped fish). Enjoy fresh tropical fruits like pineapples, mangoes, and papayas.
Living in Congo (Brazzaville)
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Brazzaville is relatively high compared to other African cities, particularly for housing, utilities, and imported goods.
Housing: Expats often live in gated communities or serviced apartments in upscale neighborhoods like Plateau des 15 Ans or Moungali.
Healthcare: Healthcare facilities are limited, and many expats seek medical treatment abroad or rely on private clinics.
Education: International schools in Brazzaville provide education in English and French. Public education quality is generally low.
Main facts
1. Location
Congo (Brazzaville) is located in west-central Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is situated between Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, sharing borders with several other countries in the region.
2. Map References
Congo (Brazzaville) is located in the Central Africa region.
3. Area – Comparative
The total area of Congo (Brazzaville) is approximately 342,000 sq km, slightly smaller than the US state of Montana.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Congo (Brazzaville) has a total land boundary length of 5,504 km, shared with the following countries: Angola (231 km), Cameroon (494 km), Central African Republic (487 km), Democratic Republic of the Congo (1,667 km), and Gabon (2,567 km).
5. Coastline
Congo (Brazzaville) has a coastline of 169 km along the Atlantic Ocean, featuring several small bays and inlets.
6. Maritime Claims
Congo (Brazzaville) claims territorial sea of 12 nautical miles and an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles.
7. Climate
The climate of Congo (Brazzaville) is tropical, with a rainy season from March to June and a dry season from June to October. Temperatures are generally hot and humid, with the northern regions experiencing a more equatorial climate.
8. Terrain
The terrain of Congo (Brazzaville) consists mainly of a coastal plain, valleys, and plateaus, with some hills and low mountains in the northern and western regions. The country has vast areas of tropical rainforests, particularly in the central and northern parts.
9. Elevation Extremes
The lowest point in Congo (Brazzaville) is the Atlantic Ocean at 0 m, while the highest point is Mont Nabemba at 1,020 m, located in the northwestern region.
10. Natural Resources
Major natural resources in Congo (Brazzaville) include petroleum, wood, potash, lead, zinc, uranium, copper, phosphates, natural gas, and hydropower potential.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The Congo River and its tributaries, including the Sangha, Likouala, and Kouilou-Niari rivers, are major water bodies in Congo (Brazzaville). Lake Mai-Ndombe, a transboundary lake shared with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is also a significant water body.
12. Natural Hazards
Natural hazards in Congo (Brazzaville) include seasonal flooding, frequent thunderstorms, and occasional tornadoes.
13. Geography – Notes
Congo (Brazzaville) has a significant portion of its territory covered by tropical rainforests, which are essential for biodiversity and serve as an important carbon sink. However, these forests face threats from deforestation and environmental degradation.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 65.40%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 3,282. 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( %). 31.10%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: -0.22802115.827659.
- Capital: The capital of Congo (Brazzaville) is Brazzaville
- Major Cities:
- Brazzaville – Population: 2,315,096
- Pointe-Noire – Population: 715,334
- Dolisie – Population: 83,798
- Population: 5,380,508
- Area(Km2): 342000
- Population Density( P/Km²):16. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:242
- Official Language(s):Congo (Brazzaville) – French 83%, Kongo 8.5%, Teke 1.4%
- Currency: XAF
Main Economic Indicators
Congo’s economy is heavily dependent on oil, with the petroleum sector accounting for a significant portion of GDP, exports, and government revenue. The country has faced economic challenges due to declining oil prices and limited diversification efforts. Key economic policies have focused on promoting economic diversification, improving the business environment, and attracting foreign investment.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 4.2% (source: World Bank)
2020: 3.2% (source: World Bank)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: Not Rated
Moody’s: Caa1 (May 2022)
Standard & Poor’s: Not Rated
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 3.9% (2021 estimate)
Industry: 51.6% (2021 estimate)
Services: 44.4% (2021 estimate)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Cassava, sugar cane, peanuts, vegetables, bananas, forest products
Industrial Products: Petroleum, lumber, plywood, sugar, cement, flour, beer, soap
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 2.1 million (2021 estimate)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Current Account Balance
2021: -$1.39 billion (source: World Bank)
2020: -$1.19 billion (source: World Bank)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Exports and Imports
Exports:
Total Value: $7.7 billion (2021 estimate)
Key Partners: China, Italy, United States, Spain, France
Main Commodities: Petroleum, lumber, plywood, sugar, cocoa beans, coffee, diamonds
Imports:
Total Value: $4.5 billion (2021 estimate)
Key Partners: China, France, Belgium, India, United States
Main Commodities: Capital equipment, construction materials, foodstuffs
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $1.2 billion (December 2021)
Gold Reserves: 0.366 million ounces (December 2021)
- GDP (Current US$):$10,820,591,131. 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): 9.00%. 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): 54.30%. 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. $0.97. 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. $0.88. 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 (%): 9.47%. 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
National Identity
Noun: Congolese
Adjective: Congolese
Ethnic Groups
Major ethnic groups:
Kongo: 48%
Sangha: 20%
M’Bochi: 12%
Teke: 17%
Europeans and others: 3%
Religions
Religious affiliations:
Christian: 88.5%
Muslim: 8.9%
Other: 2.6%
Age Structure
0-14 years: 41.38%
15-64 years: 55.34%
65 years and over: 3.28%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 80.1
Youth dependency ratio: 74.8
Elderly dependency ratio: 5.3
Median Age
Total: 19.7 years
Male: 19.1 years
Female: 20.3 years
Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity rate: 9.9%
Alcohol consumption: 6.1 liters per capita
Tobacco use: 25.7%
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 64.3. 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): 79.3%. 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:32.86. 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:7. 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: 4.43. 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): 7.8%. 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: 3,625,010. 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):43.80%. 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
- Armed Forces Size: 12000. 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 0.12
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 69.40%. 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.