In America Every February is a Black History Month…. so, I thought what a perfect occasion to bring you highlights of all African Countries. Truly Ato Z.. of all the countries, most important information’s, that will bring all of them little bit closer to all of us…
AFRICAN COUNTRIES A TO Z…
Algeria
Independent since: July 5th, 1962
Official language: Arabic, Berber
Capital: Algiers
Population: 44,700,000
Size: 2,381,741 km2 (919,595 sq mi)
Motto: (“By the people and for the people”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 99% Sunni Islam (official); 1% other (inc. Christians and Jews)
Currency: Algerian dinar (DZD)
Time zone: UTC+1 (CET)
Calling code: +213
Largest cities: Algiers; Oran; Constantine; Annaba; Blida; Batna
Official animal: Fennec fox
Known for: The Sahara Desert covers more than four-fifths of the land. Algeria is the continent’s biggest country and is the world’s 10th largest. Oil and gas reserves were discovered there in the 1950s,
Best food: Couscous; Tajin Zitoun; Kesra; Mhajeb; Dolma; Rechta.
Interesting fact: Famous Algerian people include two Nobel Prize winners. Albert Camus won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 and Claude Cohen-Tannoudji won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1997.
Angola
Independent since: November 11th, 1975
Official language: Portuguese
Capital: Luanda
Population: 31,127,674
Size: 1,246,700 km2 (481,354 sq mi)
Motto: “Virtue is stronger when united”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 93.4% Christianity; 56.4% Roman Catholic; 23.4% Protestant; 13.6% Other Christian; 4.5% Traditional faiths; 1.1% Others; 1.0% No religion.
Currency: Kwanza (AOA)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +244
Largest cities: Luanda; Lubango; Huambo; Benguela; Cabinda; Malanje
Official animal: Red-crested turaco
Known for: Angola has vast mineral and petroleum reserves, and its economy is among the fastest-growing in the world, especially since the end of the civil war.
Best food: Kizaka; Muamba de Galinha; Calulu; Funje; Cabidela;
Interesting fact: Angola has one of the youngest populations in the world. Almost 70 percent of the people are below age 24. This can be attributed to the long civil war in which over one million people died.
Benin
Independent since: 1 August 1960
Official language: French
Capital: Porto-Novo
Population: 11,733,059
Size : 112,622 km2 (43,484 sq mi)
Motto: “Fraternity, Justice, Labor”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: 52.2% Christianity; 24.6% Islam; 17.9% Traditional faiths; 5.2% No religion; 0.1% Others.
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +229
Largest cities: Cotonou; Abomey-Calavi; Djougou; Porto-Novo; Parakou; Bohicon; Kandi; Lokossa.
Official animal: Leopard
Known for: Its numerous craftsmen were organized into guilds, and the kingdom became famous for its ivory and woodcarvers. Its brass smiths and bronze casters excelled at making naturalistic heads, bas-reliefs, and other sculptures.
Best food: Kuli – Kuli; Dahomey Fish Stew; Yovo Doko.
Interesting fact: Benin has fields of lying fallow, mangroves, and remnants of large sacred forests. In the rest of the country, the savanna is covered with thorny scrubs and dotted with huge baobab trees.
Botswana
Independent since: 30 September 1966
Official language: English; Setswana
Capital: Gaborone
Population: 2,253,970
Size : 581,726 km2 (224,606 sq mi)
Motto: “Rain”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party parliamentary constitutional republic
Majority religion: 73% Christianity; 66% Protestantism; 7% Other Christian; 20% No religion; 6% Traditional faiths; 1% Others (includes Baháʼí, Hindu, and Islam)
Currency: Pula (BWP)
Time zone: Central Africa Time (GMT+2)
Calling code: +267
Largest cities: Gaborone; Francistown; Molepolole; Serowe; Selibe Phikwe; Maun.
Official animal: Plain’s zebra
Known for: Botswana is well known for having some of the best wilderness and wildlife areas on the African continent. Thirty-eight percent of its total land area are devoted to national parks, reserves, and wildlife management areas.
Best food: Bogobe ap (maize porridge), boerewors, samp, Magwinya (fried dough bread), and mopane worms.
Interesting fact: Botswana is home to the world’s largest concentration of African elephants, of which the highest concentration is found in Chobe National Park.
Burkina Faso
Independent since: 11 December 1958
Official language: French; Recognized national languages: Mòoré; Fula; Dioula
Capital: Ouagadougou
Population: 19,750,349
Size: 274,000 km2 (105,792 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity–Progress–Justice”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 60.5% Islam; 23.2% Christianity; 15.3% Indigenous beliefs; 1.0% Irreligious and others;
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +226
Largest cities: Ouagadougou; Bobo Dioulasso; Banfora ; Koudougou; Ouahigouya; Kaya; Fada N’gourma; Tenkodogo; Houndé ; Dédougou;
Official animal: white stallion
Known for: Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa. A landlocked country is surrounded by land with no access to the open sea.
Best food: Tô; Rizgras; Brochettes; Sauce gombo; Pouletbicyclette; Ragout d’Igname; Dôlo; Gapalo; Bissap.
Interesting fact: Burkina Faso translates as “Land of the Honest (Incorruptible) Men.”
Burundi
Independent since: 1 July 1962
Official language: Kirundi (national and official); French (official); English (official)
Capital: Gitega (political); Bujumbura (economic
Population: 11,865,821
Size : 27,830 km2 (10,745 sq mi)
Motto: “Union, Work, Progress”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 91.5% Christianity; 65.3% Roman Catholic; 26.2% Other Christian; 5.5% Traditional faiths; 2.1% Islam; 0.2% Others/None.
Currency: Burundian franc (FBu) (BIF)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +257
Largest cities: Bujumbura; Muyinga; Gitega; Ruyigi; Ngozi; Rutana; Bururi; Makamba; Kayanza; Muramvya; Cibitoke ; Bubanza.
Official animal: spotted hyena and the Transvaal lion.
Known for: Your tea and coffee probably comes from here. Burundi is home to many coffee and tea farmers. Most people know the coffee that comes in Nestlé cans or the bags of tea.
Best food: Ugall; Curry; Marahagwe; Ibiharage; Beans and bananas; Bean soup; Matura and mahu—type of sausage; Boko boko harees.
Interesting fact: Gustave is an enormous crocodile in Burundi. He is believed to be the biggest crocodile in the world at over eighteen feet and 2,000 pounds. Gustave reigns terror along the banks of the Ruzizi River and the northern shores of Lake Tanganyika where he is believed to have killed more than three hundred people.
Cameroon
Independent since: 1 January 1960
Official language: French; English. Recognized regional languages: Cameroonian Pidgin English; Fula; Ewondo; Chadian Arabic; Igbo; Camfranglais
Capital: Yaoundé
Population: 26,545,864
Size : 475,442 km2 (183,569 sq mi)
Motto: “Peace – Work – Fatherland”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 70.7% Christianity; 24.4% Islam; 2.3% Traditional faiths; 2.1% No religion; 0.5% Others
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +237
Largest cities: Yaoundé ; Douala; Garoua; Kousséri; Bamenda; Maroua; Bafoussam; Mokolo; Ngaoundéré; Bertoua; Edéa ; Loum;
Official animal: the lion
Known for: Cameroon is often known as “Africa in miniature” because of its geographical and cultural diversity.
Best food: Fufu corn and njama njama ; Brochettes; Sangah; Mbanga soup and kwacoco; Eru and water fufu; Ndolé; Koki; Achu or taro; Mbongo tchobi; Egusi soup; Kondreh.
Interesting fact: There are more than 1700 different linguistic groups in the country. And 230 other languages are spoken in the region apart from its official languages
Cape Verde/Cabo Verde
Independent since: 5 July 1975
Official language: Portuguese
Capital: Praia
Population: 543,767
Size : 4,033 km2 (1,557 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Work, Progress”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 85.3% Christianity; 77.3% Catholicism; 8.0% Other Christian; 10.8% No religion; 3.9% Others.
Currency: Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)
Time zone: UTC–1 (CVT)
Calling code: +238
Largest cities: Praia; Mindelo; Santa Maria; Cova; Santa Cruz; Pedra Badejo; São Filipe; Assomada; Tarrafal ; Espargos; Porto Novo; Calheta; Ribeira Brava.
Official animal: Manatees
Known for: Cape Verde is famous for its warm tropical climate, volcanic islands, wonderful musicians, and delicious cuisine.
Best food:Cachupa; Buzio; Morreira; Bol of Cus-Cus; Percebes; Jagacida; Frango Assado;
Interesting fact: Boa Vista’s waters are a breeding ground for humpback whales
The Central African Republic
Independent since: December 1st, 1958
Official language: French; Sango
Capital: Bangui
Population: 4.83 million
Size : 622,984 km2 (240,535 sq mi)
Motto: “All people are people”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 89.5% Christianity; 60.5% Protestantism; 28.4% Catholicism; 0.6% Other Christian; 8.5% Islam; 1.0% Traditional faiths; 2.0% Others / None.
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +236
Largest cities: Bangui; Bimbo; Berbérati; Carnot; Bambari; Bouar; Bossangoa; Bria; Bangassou; Nola; Kaga-Bandoro; Sibut
Official animal: Elephant
Known for: The Central African Republic is also home to 597 identified species of butterflies.
Best food: Chicken and cumin stew; Chikwangue; Egusi; Capitaine; Moambe; Karkanji; Shrimps; Kanda ti nyma; Spinach stew; Chichinga; Ginger beer; Palm wine; Banana wine.
Interesting fact: The Central African Republic is home to the ethnic group of Pygmy people, known for their short stature – typically under five feet tall. The word “Pygmy” comes from the Greek for “dwarfish,” although Pygmys are conventionally proportioned.
Chad
Independent since: 28 November 1958
Official language: Arabic; French
Capital: N’Djamena
Population: 16,244,513
Size : 1,284,000 km2 (495,755 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Work, Progress”
Political system: Unitary provisional government under a military junta
Majority religion: 51.8% Islam; 44.1% Christianity; 2.9% No religion; 0.7% Animism; 0.5% Others.
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +235
Largest cities: N’Djamena; Moundou; Sarh; Abéché ; Kélo ; Koumra; Pala; Am Timan.
Official animal: In the north, it is the goat and in the south, it’s the lion
Known for: Chad is named after Lake Chad, which is the largest wetland in the country.
Best food: La bouillie; Peanut and Squash Stew; Jarret de boeuf; Daraba; Karkanji; Kisser; Aiyash; Jus de fruit; Mula sharmoot; Fungasoo; Gala.
Interesting fact: Chad is culturally and linguistically diverse; it has more than two hundred ethnic groups and more than 100 languages.
Comoros
Independent since: 6 July 1975,
Official language: Comorian; French; Arabic
Capital: Moroni
Population: 850,886
Size: 2,235 km2 (863 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity – Solidarity – Development”
Political system: Federal presidential republic
Majority religion: 98 % Islam; 2 % Christianity
Currency: Comorian franc (KMF)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +269
Largest cities: Moroni; Mutsamudu; Fomboni; Domoni; Sima; Ouani; Mirontsi; Mkiriwadjumoi; Koni-Djodjo; Moya
Official animal: Mongoose Lemur
Known for: picture-postcard beaches, dramatic volcanic peaks, and an abundant marine park.
Best food: Langouste a la vanilla; Mkatra foutra; Pilaou; Ambrevades au curry; M’tsolola; Achard aux legumes; Ntrovi ya nazi; Poutou; Ladu; Mataba; Roti ya ya Houma pampa;
Interesting fact: The highest peak of Comoros is Karthala Peak with 2361 m/ 7746 ft. on the Grande Comore Island.
Congo/Republic of Congo
Independent since: 15 August 1960
Official language: French; Recognized national languages: Kituba; Lingala
Capital: Brazzaville
Population: 5,244,359
Size : 342,000 km2 (132,047 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Work, Progress”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 88.5% Christianity; 52.9% Roman Catholic; 27.3% Protestant; 8.3% Other Christian;
4.7% Traditional Faiths; 3.0% No Religion; 2.3% Others; 1.5% Undeclared
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +242
Largest cities: Brazzaville; Pointe-Noire; Dolisie; Nkayi; Kindamba; Impfondo; Ouésso; Madingou; Owando.
Official animal: The Okapi
Known for: The Congo Basin makes up one of the most important wilderness areas left on Earth. At five hundred million acres, it is larger than the state of Alaska and stands as the world’s second-largest tropical forest. A mosaic of rivers, forests, savannas, swamps and flooded forests, the Congo Basin is teeming with life.
Best food: Manioc: Cassava root, usually prepared and served in dense, chewy cubes with meat or fish.
Fufu; .Safou: Saka Saka/Pondu; Goat stew; Pili Pili; Plantains; Makobe; Palm wine;
Interesting fact: The Congo River is the deepest river (220 m) in the world
Congo-Kinshasa/ Democratic Republic of the Congo
Independent since: 30 June 1960
Official language: French; Recognized national languages: Kikongo; Lingala; Swahili; Tshiluba.
Capital: Kinshasa
Population: 105,044,646
Size : 2,344,858 km2 (905,355 sq mi)
Motto: “Justice – Peace – Work”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 94.9% Christianity; 55.8% Roman Catholic; 39.1% Other Christian; 2.5% Traditional faiths; 0.5% No religion; 2.1% Others.
Currency: Congolese franc (CDF)
Time zone: UTC+1 to +2 (WAT and CAT)
Calling code: +243
Largest cities: Kinshasa; Mbuji-Mayi; Lubumbashi; Kananga; Kisangani; Goma; Bukavu; Tshikapa; Kolwezi; Masina.
Official animal: The okapi
Known for: The Congo Basin makes up one of the most important wilderness areas left on Earth. At five hundred million acres, it is larger than the state of Alaska and stands as the world’s second-largest tropical forest. A mosaic of rivers, forests, savannas, swamps, and flooded forests, the Congo Basin is teeming with life.
Best food: Chikwanga; Fufu; Pili Pili; Satori; Saka Saka; Maboke; Linguila; Palm wine; White elephant.
Interesting fact: The people of the DRC represent over two hundred ethnic groups, with nearly 250 languages and dialects spoken throughout the country.
Cote d’Ivoire/Ivory Coast
Independent since: 4 December 1958
Official language: French
Capital: Yamoussoukro (legislative); Abidjan (administrative)
Population: 28,088,455
Size : 322,460 km2 (124,503 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity – Discipline – Work”
Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 44.0% Christianity; 37.2% Islam; 10.5% Traditional faiths; 8.1% No religion; 0.2% Others;
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +225
Largest cities: Abidjan; Bouaké; Daloa; Korhogo; Yamoussoukro; San-Pédro; Gagnoa; Man; Divo; Anyama
Official animal: Elephant
Known for: for its religious and ethnic harmony, as well as its well-developed economy. The Western African country was hailed as a model of stability
Best food: Nyamanku; Plakali; Sauce d’ arachide; Kedjenou; Fufu; Attiéké
Interesting fact: Ivory Coast is home to the largest church in the world. Completed in 1990, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro has an exterior area of 30,000m2.
Djibouti
Independent since: 27 June 1977
Official language: French; Arabic
Capital: Djibouti
Population: 921,804
Size : 23,200 km2 (8,958 sq mi)
Motto: Unity, Equality, Peace
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
Majority religion: 94% Islam; 6% Christianity
Currency: Djiboutian franc (DJF)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +253
Largest cities: Djibouti; Ali Sabieh; Dikhil Tadjoura; Arta; Obock; Ali Adde; Holhol; Airolaf; Randa;
Official animal: Camel, the Ostrich, or the Grevy’s Zebra.
Known for: 195 miles of coastline. Much of this coastline consists of gold and white, sandy beaches.
Best food: Sambuussa; Fah-fah; Djiboutian banana fritters; Laxoox, or galettes Djiboutiennes; Cambaboor; Mukbaza; Skudahkharis; Sabayaad.
Interesting fact: Djibouti is the third smallest country in Africa continental.
Egypt
Independent since: 28 February 1922
Official language: Arabic
Capital: Cairo
Population: 101,576,517
Size : 1,001,449 km2 (386,662 sq mi) (African portion)1,010,408 km2 (390,121 sq mi) total country area (including Sinai)
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 85-95% Muslim; 10 – 15% Coptic Christians
Currency: Egyptian pound (E£) (EGP)
Time zone: UTC+2[c] (EGY)
Calling code: +20
Largest cities: Cairo; Alexandrai; Giza; Shubra El Kheima; Port Said; Suez; Mansoura; El Mahalla El Kubra; Tanta; Faiyum
Official animal: Stepped eagle (Aquila nipalensis).
Known for: Pyramids and Pharaohs in Ancient Times
Best food: Ful Medames & Ta’ameya; Kushari; Mulukhiyah; Mahshi; Moussaka; Shish Kabab & Kofta; Fattah; Hawawshi;
Interesting fact: Ancient Egypt produced the world’s first prosthetic limb, a toe composed of leather, wood and thread and dated between 950 and 710 B.C.
Equatorial Guinea
Independent since: 12 October 1968
Official language: Spanish Portuguese; French; English
Capital: Malabo (current); Ciudad de la Paz (under construction)
Population: 1,454,789
Size : 28,051 km2 (10,831 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Peace, Justice”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 86.8% Christianity; 79.9% Roman Catholic; 3.2% Protestant; 3.7% Other Christian; 4.9% No religion; 4.1% Islam; 2.1% Traditional faiths; 2.1% Others.
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +240
Largest cities: Bata;
Official animal: Giraffe
Known for: Equatorial Guinea is the richest country in Africa as it’s a resource for minerals and oil.
Best food: Succotash; Peppersoup; Sopa de pescado con cacahuete
Interesting fact: Since August 3, 1979, Equatorial Guinea has been ruled by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema.
Eritrea
Independent since: Independence from Ethiopia: Official ->24 May 1991; Legislative ->24 May 1993
Official language: None!; Working languages: Italian; Tigrinya; English; Arabic. Recognized national languages: Tigrinya; Beja; Tigre; Kunama; Saho; Bilen; Nara; Afar;
Capital: Asmara
Population: Estimates range between 3.6 million and 6.7 million
Size : 117,600 km2 (45,406 sq mi)
Political system: Unitary one-party presidential republic
Majority religion: sixty-three %Christianity, 36% Islam (36%), less than 1% Other
Currency: Nakfa (ERN)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +291
Largest cities: Asmara; Keren; Dekemhare; Massawa; Mendefera; Assab; Barentu; Adi Keyh; Edd; Ak’ordat.
Official animal: Arabian camel
Known for: Eritrea Was Part of The Ancient Kingdom of Aksum
Best food: Shahan ful; Hamli; Zigini with injera; Fata; Zigni; Kulwa
Interesting fact: One of The World’s Oldest Hominids Was Discovered in Eritrea. A million-year-old skull with traits associated with both the Homo Sapien and Homo erectus was found in the Afar region in Eritrea.
Eswatini/ Swaziland
Independent since: 6 September 1968
Official language: Swazi; English
Capital: Mbabane (executive); Lobamba (legislative)
Population: 1,136,281
Size : 17,364 km2 (6,704 sq mi)
Motto: “We are a fortress”; “We are a mystery”; “We hide ourselves away”; “We are powerful ones”
Political system: Unitary absolute monarchy
Majority religion: 89.3% Christianity; 88.8% Protestantism; 0.5% Other Christian; 7.4% No religion; 0.5% Traditional faiths
Currency: Lilangeni (SZL) South African rand (ZAR)
Time zone: UTC+2 (SAST)
Calling code: +268
Largest cities: Manzini; Mbabane; Big Bend; Malkerns; Nhlangano; Mhlume; Hluti; Simunye; Siteki; Piggs Peak
Official animal: The Lion
Known for: Being one of the few countries in the world where both black and white rhinos can be found.
Best food: sishwala; incwancwa; umbidvo wetintsanga; sidvudvu; tjwala
Interesting fact: It is possible to observe the famous big five game animals of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo in Eswatini.
Ethiopia
Independent since: The Ethiopian Kingdom was founded in the 10th Century (BC). … Ethiopia is the oldest independent countries in Africa. Unlike other African countries, Ethiopia remained independent until 1935, when Italy under Benito Mussolini invaded the country but only for a brief stint. It gained back full independent from Italy August 21, 1995
Official language: Afar; Amharic; Oromo; Somali; Tigrinya; Regional languages: Harari Sidama.
Capital: Addis Ababa
Population: 117,876,227
Size : 1,104,300 km2 (426,373 sq mi)
Political system: Ethnofederalist (federal) parliamentary constitutional republic
Majority religion: 62.8% Christianity; 43.5% Ethiopian Orthodoxy; 18.6% P’ent’ay; 0.7% Catholicism; 33.9% Islam; 2.6% Traditional faiths
Currency: Birr (ETB)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +251
Largest cities: Addis Ababa; Dire Dawa; Mek’ele; Gondar; Bahir Dar
Official animal: the Lion
Known for: Ethiopia is home to the lowest place on the African continent, the Danakil Depression. Ethiopia’s Danakil Depression is the hottest place on Earth.
Best food: Injera; Tibs; Shiro be Kibbe; Berbere; Kitfo; Coffee; Tej;
Interesting fact: they run on their own time! Not only is the calendar different from ours, but they also use their own clock. In a system that really makes perfect sense, the day starts when the sun rises. 1 o’clock is sunrise, and 12 o’clock is sunset, then they have a 12-hour night clock as well.
Gabon
Independent since: November 28, 1958
Official language: French
Capital: Libreville
Population: 2,284,912
Size : 267,668 km2 (103,347 sq mi)
Motto: “Union, Work, Justice”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
Majority religion: 82.0% Christianity; 42.3% Roman Catholic; 27.4% Protestant; 12.3% Other Christian; 9.8% Islam; 7.1% No religion; 0.6% Traditional faiths
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +241
Largest cities: Libreville; Port-Gentil; Franceville; Oyem; Moanda; Mouila; Lambarene; Tchibanga; Koulamoutou; Makokou; Bitam; Gamba
Official animal: the Black Panther
Known for: Gabon is home to around 80% of Africa’s Gorilla population. The country grabs a giant share of baboons with eight out of 10 baboons in Africa found in Gabon.
Best food: Fufu; Nyembwe Chicken; Baked bananas; Seafood. Boiled lobster; Buchmeat; Boar meat.
Interesting fact: Archaeological evidence suggests Gabon has been inhabited for over 400,000 years from the Palaeolithic, through the Neolithic and Iron Age, to the present-day Bantu and Pygmy peoples.
Gambia
Independent since: 18 February 1965
Official language: English
Capital: Banjul
Population: 2,173,999
Size : 10,380 km2 (4,008 sq mi)
Motto: “Progress, Peace, and Prosperity”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: over 90% Muslim
Currency: Dalasi (GMD)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +220
Largest cities: Serekunda
Official animal: spotted hyena
Known for: It’s the smallest country in mainland Africa
Best food: Afra; Akara; Baobab Juice; Benachin; Domoda; Okra Stew; Palm wine; Tapalapa.
Interesting fact: During elections, Gambian’s vote using marbles. In a private booth, voters are presented with holes in the ground marked with each candidate. They then simply drop their marble into the hole they choose.
Ghana
Independent since: 6 March 1957
Official language: English; Recognized national languages: Dagaare; Dagbanli; Dangme; Ewe; Frafra; Ga; Gonja; Nzema; Twi; Ghanaian Sign Language.
Capital: Accra
Population: 31,072,940
Size : 238,534 km2 (92,098 sq mi)
Motto: “Freedom and Justice”
Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 71.2% Christianity; 46.7% Protestantism; 13.1% Catholicism; 11.4% Other Christian; 17.6% Islam; 6.2% Traditional faiths; 4.1% No religion; 0.9% Other
Currency: Cedi (GHS)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +233
Largest cities: Accra; Kumasi; Tamale; Takoradi; Atsiaman; Tema; Teshi Old Town; Cape Coast; Sekondi-Takoradi; Obuase; Medina; Koforidua; Japekrom
Official animal: The tawny eagle
Known for: First country for sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence
Best food: Jollof rice; Waakye; Banku and tilapia; Red-red; Fufu and goat light soup; Tuo Zaafi; Kenkey and fried fish; Kelewele; Omo tuo
Interesting fact: Ghana get de biggest man-made lake in de world, Lake Volta. De lake dey span over 320 miles, which dey travel from South-western parts of de country to North.
Guinea
Independent since: 2nd October 1958
Official language: French, Pular, Maninka, Sus
Capital: Conakry
Population: 12.77 million
Size : 245,857 km2 (94,926 sq mi)
Motto: “Work, Justice, Solidarity”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: 85 %Muslim, 8% Christian, 7 % Indigenous religious beliefs.
Currency: Guinean franc (GNF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +224
Largest cities: Conakry; Nzérékoré; Guéckédou; Kankan; Guéckédo; Kindia; Kamsar; Kissidougou; Macenta; Mamou; Boké
Official animal: African elephant
Known for: Conakry is apparently the wettest capital in the world with an incredible 3.7 meters of rain per year! Who’d have thought it?
Best food: Fou fou, also known as Tô; Bouille; Cooked mango; Fried plantain; Patates, fried sweet potatoes; Fouti; Gateau farine; Tamarind drink.
Interesting fact: Traditional healers are still extremely popular in Guinea when it comes to treating illness. Traditional healers are believed to be the first port of call for around 80% of sick Guineans.
Guinea Bissau
Independent since: 24 September 1973
Official language: Portuguese
Capital: Bissau
Population: 1.921 million
Size : 36,125 km2 (13,948 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Struggle, Progress”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 45.1% Islam; 22.1% Christianity; 15.9% Unspecified; 14.9% Traditional faiths; 2% None
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +245
Largest cities: Bissau; Bafatá; Gabú; Bissorã; Bolama; Cacheu; Bubaque; Catió; Mansôa; Buba
Official animal: crane
Known for: Guinea-Bissau produces plenty of cashew nuts which makes it the sixth-largest producer in the world.
Best food: Egusi; Fufu; Millet couscous; Dried fish; Green tea; Yassa.
Interesting fact: Because of its colonial history, the Portuguese language remains to be the language of government, communication, and education. However, only 11 to 15% of the country can speak the language, an interesting fact about Guinea-Bissau. The majority of the citizens – 44% – speak Portuguese Creole. The rest make use of native African languages such as the Fula, Balanta, Mandinka, and Papel, to name a few.
Kenya
Independent since: 12 December 1963
Official language: English; Swahili
Capital: Nairobi
Population: 54,985,698
Size : 580,367 km2 (224,081 sq mi)
Motto: “Let us all pull together”
Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 85.5% Christianity; 60.8% Protestantism; 20.6% Catholicism; 4.1% Other Christian; 10.9% Islam; 1.6% No religion; 0.7% Traditional faiths; 1.3% Other
Currency: Kenyan shilling (KES)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +254
Largest cities: Nairobi;
Official animal: East African lion
Known for: Kenya, the country in East Africa famed for its scenic landscapes and vast wildlife preserves. … Along that coast, which holds some of the finest beaches in Africa,
Best food: Ugali; Irio; Githeri; Kenyan Pilau; Wali wa Nazi; Sukuma Wiki; Kenyan Stew; Nyama Choma;
Interesting fact: Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest (after Mt Kilimanjaro) in Africa.
Lesotho
Independent since: 4 October 1966
Official language: Sesotho; English
Capital: Maseru
Population: 2.125 million
Size : 30,355 km2 (11,720 sq mi)
Motto: “Peace, Rain, Prosperity”
Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Majority religion: 92.3% Christianity; 49.4% Catholicism.; 40.7% Protestantism; 2.2% Other Christian; 6.4% Traditional faiths; 1.0% Others; 0.3% None.
Currency: Loti (LSL) South African rand (ZAR)
Time zone: UTC+2 (South African Standard Time)
Calling code: +266
Largest cities: Maseru; Teyateyaneng; Mafeteng; Hlotse; Mohale’s Hoek; Maputsoe; Qacha’s Nek; Quthing; Peka; Butha-Buthe; Roma.
Official animal: black rhinoceros
Known for: In fact, Lesotho is a country within a country, surrounded on all sides by South Africa. Specifically, it lies around 300 miles south of Johannesburg – or 50 minutes by aircraft.
Best food: Borotho; Basotho Burger; Makoenva; Papa; Lekhotloane; Nyekoe; Afrikaanse stoofschotel; Butha-buthe;
Interesting fact: It has a town with the evocative name of “Qacha’s Nek.” This sits on the country’s southeast border (with South Africa, obviously) – and is home to a Snake Park where, if you have the courage, you can see deadly cobras and mambas.
Liberia
Independent since: January 7, 1822
Official language: English
Capital: Monrovia
Population: 5,214,030
Size : 111,369 km2 (43,000 sq mi)
Motto: “The Love of Liberty Brought Us Here”
Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Majority religion: 86.2% Christianity; 11.7% Islam; 1.4% No religion; 0.7% Other.
Currency: Liberian dollar (LRD)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +231
Largest cities: Monrovia; Gbarng ; Kakata; Bensonville; Harper; Voinjama; Buchanan; Zwedru; New Yekepa; Greenville; Ganta; Robertsport
Official animal: Asiatic lion
Known for: The American Colonization Society founded Liberia in 1821 as a place for free African Americans to migrate to. More than 10,000 made the journey across the Atlantic, aided by the society until Liberia declared independence in 1847. Joseph Jenkins Roberts, a freed slave from Virginia, became the first president.
Best food: Liberian Peanut Soup; Liberian Cabbage Stew; Liberian Rice Bread; Liberian Chicken Gravy; Dumboy; Collards and Cabbage; Tarborgee;
Interesting fact: The average resident is under 18 years. Liberia is 171 years old today, but it is also one of the world’s youngest countries. According to the CIA World Factbook, the average age of its citizens is 17.9 years
Libya
Independent since: 10 February 1947
Official language: Arabic
Capital: Tripoli
Population: 6,992,701
Size : 1,759,540 km2 (679,362 sq mi)
Motto: “Freedom, socialism, unity”
Political system: Unitary provisional unity government
Majority religion: 97% Islam (official); 2.7% Christianity; 0.3% Others.
Currency: Libyan dinar (LYD)
Time zone: UTC+2 (EET)
Calling code: +218
Largest cities: Tripoli; Bengazi; Misrata; Zawiya; Bayda; Gharyan; Tobruk ; Ajdabiya; Zliten; Derna
Official animal: the Arabian Eagle
Known for: Home to The Largest Proven Oil Reserves in Africa
Best food: Couscus; Asida (flour pudding); Shakshouka; Shorba (soup); Tajine; Ghoriba (cookie); Kunafa (dessert); Filfel Chuma (hot pepper paste);
Interesting fact: the Libya’s City of Cyrene Was Part of The Ancient Greek Empire
Madagascar
Independent since: 14 October 1958
Official language: Malagasy; French
Capital: Antananarivo
Population: 28,427,328
Size : 587,041 km2 (226,658 sq mi)
Motto: “Fitiavana, Tanindrazana, Fandrosoana” (Malagasy); “Amour, Patrie, Progrès” (French); “Love, Fatherland, Progress”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 85.3% Christianity; 45.8% Protestantism; 38.1% Catholicism; 1.4% Other Christian; 6.9% No religion; 4.5% Traditional faiths; 3.0% Islam; 0.3% Others
Currency: Ariary (MGA)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +261
Largest cities: Antananarivo; Toamasina; Antsirabe; Fianarantsoa; Mahajanga; Toliara; Antsiranana; Antanifotsy; Ambovombe; Ambilobe; Amparafaravola ; Tolanaro
Official animal: Lemur
Known for: Madagascar is home to 70 species of lemurs found nowhere else on Earth.
Best food: Ramanonaka; Mofo Gasy; Trondro Gasy; Verenga; Lasopy; Bonbon Coco; Vary amin anana; Romazava; Akoho sy voanio; Laoka
Interesting fact: Madagascar is the world’s fourth-largest island.
Malawi
Independent since: 6 July 1907
Official language: English; Chewa; Recognized regional languages: Yao; Tumbuka; Tonga; Sena; Lomwe; Ngonde; Lambya.
Capital: Lilongwe
Population: 19,129,95
Size : 118,484 km2 (45,747 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity and Freedom”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: 82.3% Christianity; 58.5% Protestantism; 17.2% Catholicism; 6.6% Other Christian; 13.8% Islam; 2.1% None; 1.2% Traditional faiths; 0.6% Others.
Currency: Malawian kwacha (D) (MWK)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +265
Largest cities: Lilongwe; Blantyre; Mzuzu; Zomba; Kasungu; Mangochi; Karonga; Salima; Nkhotakota; Liwonde; Nsanje; Rumphi; Mzimba
Official animal: Thompson’s gazelle
Known for: Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa, accounts for more than one-fifth of the country’s total area.
Best food: Chambo; Nsima; Kachumbari; Nthochi; Kondowde.
Interesting fact: Malawi was the first country in Africa to grow tea on a commercial scale.
Mali
Independent since: 24 November 1958
Official language: Bambara; French; Arabic; Fulani; Manding; Senufo
Capital: Bamako
Population: 20,250,833
Size : 1,240,192 km2 (478,841 sq mi)
Motto: “Un peuple, un but, une foi” (French); “One people, one goal, one faith.”
Political system: Unitary provisional government under a military junta
Majority religion: Islam
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +223
Largest cities: Bamako; Sikasso; Mopti; Koutiala; Segou; Gao; Kayes; Markala; Kolokani; Kati; Bougouni; Timbuktu; Banamba; Bafoulabe; San; Koulikoro; Djenne;
Official animal: the vulture
Known for: The empire was founded by Sundiata Keita (c. 1214 – c. 1255) and became renowned for the wealth of its rulers, especially Mansa Musa (Musa Keita).
Best food: Tiguadege Na; La Capitaine Sangha; Poulet Yassa; Alabadja; Couscus, Joloff Rice; Fakoye; Djablani; Bouille;
Interesting fact: Mali’s Great Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud brick building in the world.
Mauritania
Independent since: 28 November 1958
Official language: Arabic (Hassaniya); French; Soninke; Wolof;
Capital: Nouakchott
Population: 4,403,313
Size : 1,030,700 km2 (397,955 sq mi)
Motto: “Honour, Fraternity, Justice”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential Islamic republic
Majority religion: Islam
Currency: Mauritanian ouguiya MRU
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +222
Largest cities: Nouakchott; Nouadhibou; Néma; Kaédi; Rosso; Kiffa; Zouérat
Official animal: African wild cat
Known for: There is a huge eye in the Mauritanian desert which is visible from space. Just imagine looking down on Earth from space and an eye staring back at you! Known as “The Richat Structure,” the diameter of this eye is around 40 km, and it looks like a ‘bull’s eye’.
Best food: Dates, Thieboudienne (Cheb-u-jin); Méchoui; Spiced fish; Dried fish; Dried meat; Couscous; Goat stuffed with rice; Camel; Caravane cheese; Yassa poulet; Mahfe; Yassa fish; Hakko; Lakh; Marolaym; Bulgur wheat with dried fruit; Maru we-llham; Mauritanian terrine; Camel Chubbagin; Cherchem.
Interesting fact: Mauritania is the last country to abolish slavery. The country passed a law in 1981 but it only became punishable as a criminal act in 2007.
Mauritius
Independent since: 12 March 1968
Official language: None (de jure); English (de facto); French (de facto)
Capital: Port Loius
Population: 1,265,475
Size : 2,040 km2 (788 sq mi)
Motto: “Stella Clavisque Maris Indici” (Latin); “Star and Key of the Indian Ocean”
Political system: Unitary parliamentary republic
Majority religion: 48.54% Hinduism; 32.71% Christianity; 26.26% Catholicism; 6.45% Other Christian; 17.30% Islam; 1.45% Others / None.
Currency: Mauritian rupee (MUR)
Time zone: UTC+4 (MUT)
Calling code: +230
Largest cities: Port Louis; Beau Bassin-Rose Hill; Vacoas ; Curepipe ; Quatre Bornes ; Triolet ; Goodlands ; Centre de Flacq ; Bel Air Rivière Sèche
Official animal: The dodo
Known for: being the land of the now extinct Dodo Bird
Best food: Gateaux piment (chili fritters); Dhal puri (Indian-style flatbread); Mauritian cari; Boulettes (dumplings); Bol renversé / upside-down bowl (stir fry); pineapple and chili salt;
Interesting fact: Almost all Mauritians speak English or French, which are widely used for official purposes. Nearly 90% of Mauritians speak French-based Mauritian Creole. The other languages Mauritians speak include Marathi, Malayalam, Mandarin, Hindi, Bhojpuri, Telugu, Urdu, and Tamil.
Morocco
Independent since: 7 April 1956
Official language: Arabic; Berber
Capital: Rabat
Population: 37,112,080
Size : 710,850 km2 (274,461 sq mi)
Motto: (Standard Moroccan Tamazight) “God, Homeland, King”
Political system: Unitary parliamentary semi-constitutional monarchy
Majority religion: 99% Islam (official); 1% other (inc. Christians, Jews, and Baháʼís);
Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD)
Time zone: UTC+1
Calling code: +212
Largest cities: Casablanca; Fez; Tangier; Meknes; Marrakesh; Rabat; Kentira.
Official animal: Barbary lion
Known for: Morocco is famous for its distinct pottery and ceramics. Shops and markets are flooded with beautiful hand-painted pieces; you won’t be able to choose your favorite! While Fez is known for its traditional blue and white painted pieces, you can find all sorts of rich colors and intricate patterns throughout Morocco.
Best food: Couscous; Bastilla; Tagine; Mint Tea; Zaalouk; Harira; Fish Chermoula; Briouats;
Interesting fact: Morocco Was Founded by A Relative of Prophet Muhammad. Idris I founded the Idrisid dynasty that prepared the base for the establishment of Morocco as an independent state in the future. Idris I was Prophet Muhammad’s great-great-great-grandson.
Mozambique
Independent since: 25 June 1975
Official language: Portuguese; Recognized national languages: Tsonga; Mwani; Chewa; Swahili.
Capital: Maputo,
Population: 30,066,648
Size : 801,590 km2 (309,496 sq mi)
Motto: República de Moçambique “Republic of Mozambique”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 57.6% Christianity; 20% Islam; 13.4% No religion; 9.6% Traditional faiths; 1.1% Other.
Currency: Metical (MZN)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +258
Largest cities: Maputo; Matola; Nampula; Beira; Chimoio; Quelimane; Tete; Nacala; Lichinga; Pemba
Official animal: African elephant
Known for: Mozambique has some of the most pristine dive sites in the world. The reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago are home to over 1200 species of marine creatures including the rare Dugong. With over 2500km of unspoiled beaches, Mozambique is the ideal secluded beach destination.
Best food: Xima; Piri-Piri; Fresh Bread (Pão); Feijoada; Mucapata; Galinha Asada; Matapa; Green mango achar.
Interesting fact: Mozambique is the only one-word country name to feature all 5 vowels. Yes, we checked it. It is also the only country with a gun on its flag. The flag of Mozambique stands out. It shows an AK-47 rifle. The rifle symbolizes defense and vigilance.
Namibia
Independent since: 21 March 1990
Official language: English; Recognised national languages:Afrikaans; German; Otjiherero; Khoekhoegowab; Oshiwambo; RuKwangali; Setswana; siLozi; Recognised regional languages:!Kung; Gciriku; Thimbukushu
Capital: Windhoek
Population: 2,550,226
Size : 825,418 km2 (318,696 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Liberty, Justice”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 87.9% Christianity; 43.7% Lutheranism; 22.8% Catholicism; 17.0% Anglicanism; 4.4% Other Christian; 10.2% Traditional faiths; 1.6% No religion; 0.3% Others.
Currency: Namibian dollar (NAD); South African rand (ZAR)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAST)
Calling code: +264
Largest cities: Windhoek; Rundu; Walvis Bay; Oshakati; Swakopmund; Katima Mulilo; Grootfontein; Rehoboth; Otjiwarongo; Okahandja
Official animal: Oryx
Known for: Namibia is home to the world’s oldest desert
Best food: Mahangu soup; Mieliepap; Potjiekos; Meat skewers; Bullfrog; Hake fillets; Oysters and green asparagus from Swakopmund; Lobster from Luderitz.
Interesting fact: Namibia has one of the largest concentrations of rock art in Africa
Niger
Independent since: 18 December 1958
Official language: Arabic; Buduma; Fulfulde; Gourmanchéma; Hausa; Kanuri; Zarma; Songhai; Tamasheq; Tassawaq; Tebu
Capital: Niamey
Population: 24,112,753
Size : 1,267,000 km2 (489,191 sq mi)
Motto: “Fraternité, Travail, Progrès” (French) – “Fraternity, Work, Progress”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 99.3% Islam; 0.3% Christianity; 0.2% Animism; 0.1% Irreligion.
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC+1 (WAT)
Calling code: +227
Largest cities: Niamey; Maradi ; Zinder; Tahoua; Agadez; Arlit; Birni Nkonni; Dosso; Gaya; Tessaoua
Official animal: Niger does not have an official national animal. The dama gazelle is the closest thing it has to a national animal symbol.
Known for: Humans have lived in what is now Niger from the earliest times. Through extensive archaeological research, much evidence has been uncovered indicating that man has been present in northern Niger for over 600,000 years.
Best food: Shinkafa; Tattabara; Deguidegui; Brochettes; Laban; Dodo; Palm nut soup; Salaat; Foura; Ogbono; Tea.
Interesting fact: Niger sits on some of the world’s largest uranium deposits,
Nigeria
Independent since: 1 October 1960
Official language: English; National languages: Hausa; Igbo; Yoruba
Capital: Abuja
Population: 211,400,708
Size : 923,768 km2 (356,669 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress”
Political system: Federal presidential republic
Majority religion: Muslim (53.5%); Christian (45.9%); Other (0.6%)
Currency: Naira (₦) (NGN)
Time zone: UTC+01:00 (WAT)
Calling code: +234
Largest cities: Lagos; Kano; Ibadan; Benin City; Port Harcourt; Jos; Ilorin; Abuja
Official animal: The black-crowned crane
Known for: It is home to the second-largest film industry on the globe whilst also being the fashion, technological and creative hub in Africa. Nigerians are known for their vibrant and friendly energy expressed through diverse creative expressions.
Best food: Jollof Rice; Garri; Pounded Yam; Egusi Soup; Suya; Akara; Moi Moi; Pepper Soup.
Interesting fact: Over 500 Indigenous languages are spoken throughout the country. …
Rwanda
Independent since: 1 July 1962
Official language: Kinyarwanda; French; English; Swahili
Capital: Kigali
Population: 12,374,397
Size : 26,798 km2 (10,347 sq mi)
Motto: “Ubumwe, Umurimo, Gukunda Igihugu” – “Unity, Work, Patriotism”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic under a dominant-party authoritarian dictatorship
Majority religion: 93.8% Christianity; 3.0% No religion; 2.2% Islam; 1.0% Others.
Currency: Rwandan franc (RWF)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +250
Largest cities: Kigali; Butare; Gitarama; Ruhengeri; Gisenyi; Byumba; Cyangugu; Kibuye; Rwamagana
Official animal: The African Leopard
Known for: The highest % of women in parliament in the world
Best food: Isombe; Matoke; Igisafuria; Brochettes; Ugali; Ibihaza; Matolie.
Interesting fact: Plastic bags are banned
São Tomé and Príncipe
Independent since: 12 July 1975
Official language: Portuguese; Recognized regional languages: Forro; Angolar; Principense
Capital: São Tomé
Population: 211,028
Size : 964 km2 (372 sq mi)
Motto: “Unidade, Disciplina, Trabalho” (Portuguese) – “Unity, Discipline, Labour”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: 81.1% Christianity; 13.2% No religion; 3.1% Folk religions; 2.4% Others
Currency: Dobra (STN)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +239
Largest cities: São Tomé; Santo Amaro; Neves; Santana; Trindade; Santa Cruz; Pantufo; Guadalupe
Official animal: Sao Tome Shrew
Known for: Uninhabited until being discovered by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, Sao Tome and Principe is a tiny archipelago situated in the Gulf of Guinea.
Best food: Arroz doce; Banana pap; Barriga de peixe ; Blablá; Broa; Cachupa; Calulu ; Chicken with coffee sauce; Djogo; Flying fish; Jackfruit; Mango; Omelettes; Boiled pork is a dish prepared with pork, tomato, spinach, onion, garlic, and spices.
Interesting fact: It was one of the first countries in Africa to adopt democracy. The first elections were held in 1991 which were transparent and fair, a little unusual and rare in the African continent. The elections are still held without any chaos and violence which is a major feat for the country.
Senegal
Independent since: 4 April 1960
Official language: French
Capital: Dakar
Population: 15,854,323
Size : 196,723 km2 (75,955 sq mi)
Motto: “Un Peuple, Un but Une Foi” (French) – “One People, One Goal, One Faith”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: 90% Muslim ; 5% Christian.
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +221
Largest cities: Dakar; Pikine; Touba; Thies; Thies Nones; Saint-Louis; Kaolack; Ziguinchor; Tiebo; Tambacounda
Official animal: Lion
Known for: It inspired the world’s most difficult car race. Created in 1979, the Paris-Dakar Rally was regarded as the toughest race on the planet. A test of man and machine, the rally cut a treacherous path through some of the most dangerous terrain on Earth, including Sahara Desert.
Best food: Thieboudienne; Chicken Yassa; Caldou; Bassi Salte; Mafe; Lakhou Bissap; Firire; Domoda.
Interesting fact: Some taxis have tails. Some cab drivers in Senegal believe that attaching a goat’s tail to the back of their cars will bring them good luck.
Seychelles
Independent since: 29 June 1976
Official language: English; French; Seychellois
Capital: Victoria
Population: 98,462
Size : 451 km2 (174 sq mi)
Motto: “Finis Coronat Opus “(Latin) – “The End Crowns the Work”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: 89.2% Christianity; 76.2% Catholicism; 6.1% Anglicanism; 6.9% Other Christian; 2.4% Hinduism; 1.6% Islam; 1.1% Others
Currency: Seychellois rupee (SCR)
Time zone: UTC+4 (SCT)
Calling code: +248
Largest cities: Victoria; Anse Boileau; Beau Vallon;Takamaka; Grand Anse Mahe.
Official animal: The Indian Oceanic Striped Dolphin, Whitebelly, Blue-white dolphin, Meyen’s Dolphin, or the Streaker Porpoise (Stenella coeruleoalba)
Known for: Diving, snorkeling, surfing, and sailing are all world class, and the Seychelles encompass some of the richest fishing grounds in the world. The larger granitic inner islands of the Seychelles (primarily Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue) are the most developed for tourists, with many luxury five-star Seychelles resorts.
Best food: Bat curry ; Bouyon bred; Bourzwa griye; kari bernik; kasava pudding; Satini Reken; Coconut curries; Fruit bat
Interesting fact: Seychelles Was Once a Pirate Hideout . After Portuguese explorer Vaco Da Gama discovered the Seychelles islands in 1502, its two main islands became a hideout for pirates. One of the most well-known pirates to take refuge in Seychelles was Olivier Le Vasseur, also known as “Le Buse” or the Buzzard. According to folklore, Le Buse fled to the Seychelles, where he hid stolen Portuguese treasure in 1721.
Sierra Leone
Independent since: 27 April 1961
Official language: English; Recognized national languages: Krio; Mende; Temne
Capital: Freetown
Population: 8,059,155
Size : 71,740 km2 (27,699 sq mi)
Motto: “High We Exalt Thee, Realm of the Free”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: Islam (78%); Christianity (21%)
Currency: Leone (SLL)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +232
Largest cities: Freetown ; Kenema; Bo; Koidu; Makeni ; Waterloo; Port Loko
Official animal: the Chimpanzee
Known for: Sierra Leone has a special significance in the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Its capital, Freetown, was founded in 1787 as a home for repatriated former slaves from London and the Americas.
Best food: Binch (bean) dishes; Foofoo/Fufu; Fried cassava bread with gravy; Fry fry; Fry stew; Groundnut soup; Leaf stews; Leaf-wrapped snacks: oleleh, agidi.
Interesting fact: The island is home to around 9,000 vascular plant species, 785 bird species, 320 mammal species, 425 reptiles and 510 freshwater fish.
Somalia
Independent since: 1 July 1960
Official language: Somali; Arabic; Recognized national languages: English; Italian
Capital: Mogadishu
Population: 15,893,219
Size : 637,657 km2 (246,201 sq mi)
Motto: no official motto
Political system: Federal parliamentary republic
Majority religion: Sunni Islam
Currency: Somali shilling (SOS)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +252
Largest cities: Mogadishu;
Official animal: the leopard ( Panthera pardus)
Known for: Somalia Has Longest Coastline in Mainland Africa
Best food: Sambusa; Bariis Ishkukaris; Malawah; Anjero; Somali Chai Tea; Xalwo (halwo) or halva; Gashaato, Kashaato or Qumbe
Interesting fact: The Las Geel cave formations near Hargeisa, Somaliland, have some of the Horn of Africa’s most ancient cave paintings. The paintings, which depict cattle in ceremonial robes, a domesticated dog, giraffes and humans, date between 9,000- and 3,000-years BC. The paintings are in good condition as they are naturally protected by granite overhangs.
South Africa
Independent since: 31 May 1910
Official language: English; Zulu; Swazi; Afrikaans; Sepedi; Sesotho; Setswana; Xitsonga; Xhosa; Tshivenda; isiNdebele
Capital: Pretoria (executive); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judicial)
Population: 60,142,978
Size : 1,221,037 km2 (471,445 sq mi)
Motto: “ǃke e꞉ ǀxarra ǁke” (ǀXam) – “Unity in Diversity”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party parliamentary republic with an executive presidency
Majority religion: 78.0% Christianity; 58.3% Protestantism; 19.7% Other Christian; 10.9% No religion; 4.4% Traditional faiths; 1.6% Islam; 1.0% Hinduism; 2.7% Others; 1.4% Undetermined
Currency: South African rand (ZAR)
Time zone: UTC+2 (SAST)
Calling code: +27
Largest cities: Cape Town; Durban; Johannesburg; Soweto; Pretoria; Port Elizabeth; Pietermaritzburg; Benoni. Tembisa.
Official animal: Springbuck/springbok – Antidorcas marsupialis
Known for: South Africa is the second-largest exporter of fruit in the world. South Africa is the world’s largest producer of macadamia nuts. … South Africa is the world’s biggest producer of gold, platinum, chromium, vanadium, manganese, and alumino-silicates. It also produces nearly 40% of the world’s chrome and vermiculite.
Best food: Cape Malay curry; Malva pudding; Chakalaka & pap; Braai/Shisa nyama; Bunny chow; Amarula Don Pedro; koeksister; Bobotie; Melktert
Interesting fact: South Africa is home to the oldest meteor scar in the world – the Vredefort Dome in a town called Parys. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
South Sudan
Independent since: 9 July 2011
Official language: English; Juba; Arabic; Nuer; Bari; Zande; Jur (Luo); Murle; Shilluk; Dinka; Kanuri; various others
Capital: Juba
Population: 12,778,250
Size : 644,329 km2 (248,777 sq mi)
Motto: “Justice, Liberty, Prosperity”
Political system: Transitional National Legislature
Majority religion: 60.5% Christianity; 32.9% Traditional faiths; 6.2% Islam; 0.4% Others / None
Currency: South Sudanese pound (SSP)
Time zone: UTC+2 (Central Africa Time)
Calling code: +211
Largest cities: Juba; Winejok; Malakal; Wau; Pajok; Yambio; Yei; Aweil; Gogrial; Rumbek
Official animal: African fish eagle
Known for: South Sudan is the youngest country in the world, and the the most multi-lingual state in Africa at the same time.
Best food: Kisra; Mandazi; Wala-wala; Aseeda; Gurassa; Kajaik; Ful sudani; Tamia.
Interesting fact: The officially accepted language is English. However, people speak Arabic and more than 50 other languages.
Sudan
Independent since: 1 January 1956
Official language: Arabic; English
Capital: Khartoum
Population: 44,909,353
Size : 1,861,484 km2 (718,723 sq mi)
Motto: “an-Naṣr lanā” – “Victory is Ours”
Political system: Federal provisional government under a military junta
Majority religion: 91 % Muslim, 5.4 % Christian, 2.8 % follow folk religions, and the remainder follow other religions or are unaffiliated.
Currency: Sudanese pound (SDG)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +249
Largest cities: Omdurman; Khartoum; Khartoum North; Nyala; Port Sudan; El-Obeid; Kassala; Wad Madani
Official animal: The Secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius )
Known for: While Egypt gets noticed for its pyramids, Sudan is known as the place with the world’s largest collection of pyramids.
Best food: Goraasa; Shaaria; Baseema; Kamounia; Kisra; Kuindiong; Moukhbaza; Dura; Asseeda; Elmaraara and Umfitit
Interesting fact: It is in Sudan where Nile River is formed.
Tanzania
Independent since: 9 December 1961
Official language: Swahili; English ( + more than 100 local languages)
Capital: Dodoma
Population: 61,193,226
Size : 945,203 km2 (364,945 sq mi)
Motto: “Uhuru na Umoja” (Swahili) – “Freedom and Unity”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
Majority religion: 63.1% Christianity; 34.1% Islam; 1.5% No religion; 1.2% Traditional faiths; 0.1% Others.
Currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS)
Time zone: UTC+3 (East Africa Time)
Calling code: +255
Largest cities: Dar es Salaam; Mwanza; Arusha; Dodoma; Mbeya; Morogoro; Tanga; Kahama; Tabora; Zanzibar City
Official animal: The Masai giraffe
Known for: Serengeti National Park. Serengeti National Park is the most famous park in Tanzania and a wonderful place to go; Mount Kilimanjaro. As the tallest peak on the African continent, Mount Kilimanjaro is known as the Roof of the World!
Best food: Ugali; Wali wa Nazi; Wali na Maharage; Sukuma Wiki; Irio; Mchuzi wa Biringani; Ndizi; Mchuzi wa Samaki ; Zanzibar Pizza; Kuku wa Mchuzi; Kuku Paka
Interesting fact: The Ngorongoro Crater Is the Largest of Its Kind In The World.
Togo
Independent since: 27 April 1960
Official language: French; Recognized national languages: Ewe ; Kabiye
Capital: Lomé
Population: 8,608,444
Size : 56,785 km2 (21,925 sq mi)
Motto: “Travail, Liberté, Patrie” (French) – “Work, Liberty, Homeland”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic under a dominant-party authoritarian dictatorship
Majority religion: 43.7% Christianity; 35.6% Traditional faiths; 14.0% Islam; 6.2% No religion; 0.5% Others.
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
Calling code: +228
Largest cities: Lomé; Sokodé; Kara; Kpalimé; Atakpamé; Bassar; Tsévié; Aného; Mango; Dapaong
Official animal: The African lion
Known for: Togo is known for their great beaches, among them being Aneho Beach and Lome Beach. Some of the beaches are home to white sands and it’s easy to get privacy.
Best food: Fufu; Groundnut soup; Akpan; Brochettes; Gboma desi; Jollof Rice; Akara; Koklo meme; Riz sauce d’arachide; Palm nut soup; Jus de bissap; Sodabe; Ablo; Yassa;
Interesting fact: The voodoo religion is practiced widely in Togo. Throughout the region, voodooism does not have the negative implications it has in the West. In Togo, voodooism is considered to be more than a belief system as it extends to culture, philosophy, language, art, dance, music, and medicine.
Tunisia
Independent since: 20 March 1956
Official language: Tunisian; Arabic; Berber; French
Capital: Tunis
Population: 11,708,370
Size : 163,610 km2 (63,170 sq mi)
Motto: ”Ḥurrīyah, Karāma, ‘Adālah, Niẓām” – “ Freedom, dignity, justice, and order”
Political system: Unitary semi-presidential republic
Majority religion: Islam
Currency: Tunisian dinar (TND)
Time zone: UTC+1 (CET)
Calling code: + 216
Largest cities: Tunis; Sfax; Sousse; Ettadhamen; Kairouan; Gabès; Bizerte; Aryanah; Gafsa
Official animal: The Dromedary
Known for: Tunisia is perhaps most famous for its wide array of historical attractions, including the ancient city of Carthage in Tunis, and the huge Amphitheater of El Jem near Sousse, which show off the influences of various civilizations that have settled in the country over the years
Best food: Couscous; Ojja (Shakshuka); Brik; Merguez; Chorba (Shorba); Poulet Meshi; Maghrebi Mint Tea; Lablabi (Lablebi); Tunisian Pastries; Harissa; Masfouf (Mesfouf)
Interesting fact: The country has only ever had two presidents.
Uganda
Independent since: 9 October 1962
Official language: English; Swahili
Capital: Kampala
Population: 42,729,036
Size : 236,040 km2 (91,136 sq mi)
Motto: “ For God and My Country” – “kwa mungu na nchi yangu”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
Majority religion: 84.4% Christianity; 39.3% Catholicism; 32.0% Anglicanism; 13.1% Other Christian; 13.7% Islam; 1.9% Others / None.
Currency: Ugandan shilling (UGX)
Time zone: UTC+3 (EAT)
Calling code: +256
Largest cities: Kampala; Nansana; Kira; Ssabagabo; Mbarara; Mukono; Njeru; Gulu; Lugazi
Official animal: The Uganda kob (Kobus kob thomasi)
Known for: Uganda’s outstanding features are the largest freshwater lake on the continent, the source of the longest river, the strongest waterfall, the largest number of primates, and the highest number of mountain gorillas worldwide.
Best food: The Rolex (Rolled Eggs); Katogo Dishes; Fried Chapati; Ugandan Rice Balls/Rolls (Namungodi); Ugandan Egg Rolls; Matooke; Royal Chicken Luwombo; Beef Luwombo; Muchomo ; Kikalayi
Interesting fact: Over 50 Tribes with Different Cultures Live in Uganda
Western Sahara
Western Sahara is a disputed territory on the northwest coast and in the Maghreb region of North and West Africa. About 20% of the territory is controlled by the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, while the remaining 80% of the territory is occupied and administered by neighboring Morocco. is one of the most sparsely populated territories in the world, mainly consisting of desert flatlands. Nearly 40% of the entire population is live in Laayoune, the largest city in Western Sahara.
Official language: Arabic
Capital: Laayoune
Population: 567,402
Size : 266,000 km2 (102,703 sq mi)
Motto: “Liberty, Democracy, Unity”
Majority religion: Sunni Muslim.
Currency: Sahrawi peseta; Moroccan dirham.
Time zone: UTC+1
Largest cities: Laayoune
Official animal: The fennec fox,
Known for: The Kasbah and mosque in the town of Semara (Smara) are among the major Muslim monuments in Western Sahara.
Best food: Couscous; Tajin; Rice with fish; Meifrisa; Mutton; Ezzmit; Jollof rice; El Aych
Interesting fact: Saharan Dunes can reach 180 meters in height.
Zambia
Independent since: 31 July 1064
Official language: English;
Capital: Lusaka
Population: 17,351,708
Size : 752,614 km2 (290,586 sq mi)
Motto: “One Zambia, One Nation”
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Majority religion: Christianity
Currency: Zambian kwacha (ZMW)
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Calling code: +260
Largest cities: Lusaka; Kitwe; Ndola; Kabwe; Chingola; Mufulira; Livingstone; Luanshya
Official animal: African fish eagle
Known for: Zambia is famous for pioneering the walking safari. Some say Zambia is the best-kept secret in Africa, an undiscovered mecca for a variety of safari and game viewing activities. It is a raw slice of Africa-friendly and with many unspoiled wild places worthy of any pioneer!
Best food: Nshima; Ifinkubala ; Kapenta; Chikanda (African Polony); Bushmeat; Dry Fish; Samp; Ifisashi; Kandolo; Lumanda; Bondwe
Interesting fact: In Zambia, it’s possible to see the celebrated “big five” game animals of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.
Zimbabwe
Independent since: 11 November 1965
Official language: Zimbabwe has the most official languages in the world. Zimbabwe has sixteen official languages. In fact, it holds the Guinness World Record for the country with the most official languages. The official languages of Zimbabwe are Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Khoisan, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, sign language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, and Xhosa.
Capital: Harare
Population: 15,092,171
Size : 390,757 km2 (150,872 sq mi)
Motto: “Unity, Freedom, Work”
Political system: Unitary dominant-party presidential republic
Majority religion: 84.1% Christianity; 69.2% Protestantism; 14.9% Other Christian; 10.2% No religion; 4.5% Traditional faiths; 1.2% Others.
Currency: Zimbabwean dollar
Time zone: UTC+2 CAT
Calling code: +263
Largest cities: Harare; Bulawayo; Chitungwiza; Mutare; Epworth; Gweru; Kwekwe; Kadoma; Masvingo; Chinhoyi; Norton
Official animal: Sable Antelope
Known for: Victoria Falls (the largest waterfall in the world) and Lake Kariba (the largest man-made lake in terms of volume). National parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools teem with wildlife,
Best food: Maizemeal – Sadza/Itshwala; Bota/Iyambazi; Umxhanxa; Mutakura/Mangai; Madhumbe/Magogoya; Hwiza, Harurwa, Ishwa/Imbhombo, Inhlwa; Matumbu/Ezanga Phakathi
Interesting fact: One of the most interesting facts about Zimbabwe concerns its currency. Since 2008, when massive inflation hit the country, Zimbabwe has been a multi-currency nation. To combat the inflation, Zimbabwe abandoned its own currency, the Zimbabwean dollar, and started using other currencies – the U.S. Dollar, the South African Rand, euro, and the Botswana Pula. You could, theoretically, buy an item priced in U.S. dollars, pay in South African rands, and get a change in euros. Then, in 2015, the Japanese Yen, Australian Dollar, Indian Rupee, and Chinese Renminbi also became legal tenders. However, in 2018, the Zimbabwean government reinstated the Zimbabwean dollar as the local currency.
