African countries

Africa. Welcome to African countries. Get acquainted with the list of countries that are part of Africa. Their detailed description, geographical position, capitals, flags, currencies and much more. Here you can find out what the climate is like in these countries, a list of attractions that you should visit. Find out what customs control rules you should follow when entering the country. Get acquainted with the peculiarities of the rules of local behavior and find out what dangers you should be wary of in a particular country.

4. Anthem

listen to national Anthem of Cape Verde:

5. Currency

National currency of Cape Verde — Cape Verdean escudo ( Cabo Verde Escudo) , alphabetic CVE . One escudo is formally equal to 100 centavo , however, coins denominated in centavos are not currently issued, and those previously issued are not legal tender. July 1, 1977 Cape Verdean escudo replaced colonial escudo of the Islands Cape Verde , which remained the national currency since the country gained independence on July 5, 1975, was exchanged in a 1:1 ratio. Currently in circulation there are coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 escudo, as well as banknotes in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 escudo. All inscriptions on coins and banknotes (except for the names of biological species) are in Portuguese.

Use the currency converter below to easily and quickly convert Cape Verdean escudo in rubles, dollars, euros or any other world currency at the current exchange rate.

Cape Verdean coins

Cape Verdean banknotes

6. Cape Verde on the world map

Republic of Cape Verde- state located on the Cape Verde Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 600 km from the west coast of Africa. The Cape Verde Islands are a cluster of 10 large And 8 small islands in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, divided into Leeward and Windward groups. The Windward group includes the islands: Santo Antan, Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau, Santa Luzia, Sal, Boavista. The Leeward group includes the islands: Santiago, Brava, Fogo, Mayu. Small islands: Branco, Grande, Dos Passaros, Luis Carneiro, Razo, Santa Maria, Sapado, Sima. The total area of ​​Cape Verde is 4033 km2.

The terrain is mountainous with big amount extinct and active volcanoes. Rocky shores are difficult to access. There are very few natural harbours, the largest of which is Mindelo. The highest point of the country Republic- current Fogo volcano (2840 m).

The vegetation of the islands is extremely sparse; Massive deforestation over the centuries has also affected the depletion of water resources: the river network is on the verge of extinction, short river beds are drying up, filling with water only during the rainy season. The islands are seismically active and earthquakes often occur.

7. What to see in Cape Verde

Sights of Cape Verde– this is stunning nature, numerous architectural monuments and museums, high-quality resort complexes and unique undersea world. attractions Cape Verde:

• peak of Guido do Cavaleiro (Santo Antan Island)
• Volcano Topu de Corot (Santo Antan Island)
• Pico da Cruz mountain range (Santo Antan Island)
• Mount Monte-Grande (Sal Island)
• wild beaches of Baia das gatas (Sao Vicente Island)
• Mindelo (MINDELO) - port city
• Fishing village Salinas (Fogo Island)
• Santa Maria market (Sal island)
• Cidade VELHA (Santiago Island) is the oldest settlement in Cape Verde
• Pedra de Lume salt development (Sal island)

8. Largest cities

Ten largest cities Cape Verde:

1. Praia (Praia) — capital and the largest city of the island state Cape Verde, located in the Atlantic Ocean near the coast of Senegal, on the island of Santiago. The population of the capital is 151,435 people.
2. Mindelo (Mindelo) - second largest city Cape Verde, located in the northwest of the island of São Vicente in the Gulf of Porto Grande, a natural harbor formed in the crater of an underwater volcano Population of Mindelo 70,610 people.
3. Espargos (Espargos) is the main city of the municipality of the island of Sal, located in the central part of the island. Population of Espargos- 17,080 people.
4. Asomada (Assomada) - a city on the island of Sotavento Santiago. Since 1912, it has been the seat of the municipality of Santa Catarina, which includes the central western part and most of the interior of the island. This is the most Big city in this region Population of Asomad 12,020 people.
5. Pedra Badejo (Pedra Badejo) is a small town that ranks 5th in terms of population in its country (9,490 people).
6. Porto Novo (Porto Novo) - a city on the island of Santo Antau in Cape Verde, with a population of 9,430 people
7. San Philip (Saint Philip) - city on west coast Fogo Islands. It is the capital of the island and the seat of the municipality of Sao Filipe with a population of 8,190 people.
8. Tarrafal (Tarrafal) - a village on the northern coast of the island of Santiago, 70 km from the capital of the state, the city of Praia, at the foot of Mount Graciosa6. Population village Tarrafal 6,650 people.
9. Santa Maria (Santa Maria) - fishing and tourist town in the south of the island of Sal, with a population of 6,260 people.
10. Sal-Rey (Sal Rei) - a city on the northwestern coast of the island of Boa Vista in the eastern part Cape Verde. Sal Ray is the main urban settlement of the island and the seat of the municipality of Boa Vista, with a population of 5,400 people.

9. Climate

Climate in Cape Verde tropical , quite hot and dry. It is coolest in January - February, at this time the average air temperature is +21°C ... +23°C, but in the mountains it can be significantly lower. But in August, the archipelago is blown by southern and southwestern winds, which bring rain. The air becomes clean and cool, although in the mountains it is drier than on the coast. Daytime air temperatures can rise to +36 °C, and at night drop to +18°C ... +20 °C.

The average annual precipitation is 100-300 mm, and its maximum occurs from August to October. On the flat islands, precipitation is quite rare, but in the mountains there are heavy downpours, and can reach 500 mm per day. Such downpours destroy the fertile topsoil.

From the Sahara, from October to June dry and hot winds blow for several hours a day "harmattan", bringing with it heat and the finest Saharan dust. It hangs in the air for a long time, forming a “dusty fog.” The best time for travel to Cape Verde The period from August to October is considered, when warm, pleasant weather guarantees a comfortable stay.

10. Population

Population of Cape Verde 549,195 people (data as of January 2020). About 70% of the country's residents are Creoles(descendants of mixed marriages of Portuguese and Spanish settlers with Africans), 28% are Africans and 1% are Europeans. Each of the 9 inhabited islands can be compared to a miniature racial melting pot with its own cultural characteristics and local dialects, resulting from a mixture of Portuguese and various African languages. Thanks to government efforts to combat illiteracy, by the mid-1990s, 72% of the population could read and write. Average female life expectancy population of Cape Verde is 73 - 75 years old, and for men - 67 - 69 years old.

11. Language

Official languages ​​in Cape Verde are Portuguese And Creole . Besides Portuguese, many dialects are used from a mixture of Portuguese and African languages, of which the most common are Kriulu Creole dialect (a mixture of Old Portuguese and African Swahili) and Kabuverdianu . Immigrants from West Africa widely spread the French language on the islands.

12. Religion

Cape Verde is one of the most Catholic countries Africa. Christianity, which has spread here since the mid-17th century, is practiced by approximately 93% of the islands’ population. Of these, 90% belong to the Roman Catholic Church, 3% are Protestants (mainly parishioners of the Church of Nazareth). 7% of residents Cape Verde adhere to traditional African beliefs, are members of religious sects or profess Islam.

13. Holidays

National and public holidays in Cape Verde in 2020:

• 1st of January - New Year
• January 13 – Democracy Day
• January 20 – Heroes Day
• May 1 - Labor Day
• May 10 - Mother's Day
• June 1 - Children's Day
• June 21 - Father's Day
• July 5th - Independence Day
• August 15 – Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• September 12 - National Day
• November 1st - All Saints' Day
• December 25 – Christmas

14. Souvenirs and gifts

Small scroll souvenirs and giftsCape Verde:

• African masks
• African textiles
• clay figurines
• products made from ox horn and coconut
• turtle shell products
• carnival costumes
• ceramic products painted in national traditions
• carpet runners
• a piece of a volcano in the form of an ordinary lava stone on a backing
• wicker baskets
• jewelry made of coral and pearls
• wooden animal figurines

Cape Verde Customs Regulations do not restrict the transit of foreign currency, and upon entry/exit, filling out a declaration on the import/export of foreign currency is not required. The import and export of local funds is prohibited.

Allowed:

Duty-free import of up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco, 2 liters of wine, up to 1 liter of strong alcoholic drinks, 250 ml of perfume or 50 grams of perfume is allowed. Duty-free import and export of fresh fruits and vegetables weighing up to 5 kg, as well as other products and items in quantities intended for personal consumption, is allowed.

Forbidden:

The import of weapons, psychotropic and toxic substances, drugs and medicines containing opiates is prohibited (with the exception of those who have a prescription and a doctor’s order). To the territory Cape Verde The transportation of plants is prohibited without additional control procedures and phytosanitary certificates.

16.

Electrical voltage Cape Verde: 220 volt, at a frequency of 50 hertz. Socket type: Type C, Type F.

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Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe) or full official name Republic of Zimbabwe (Republic of Zimbabwe) - a state located in the southern part of the African continent. Until 1980, the country was a colony and was called Southern Rhodesia , and even earlier an empire was located on these lands Monomotapa , whose capital was called Zimbabwe. The history of these parts is very interesting and eventful, with constant struggles against uninvited visitors from Portugal, British rule and racial discrimination. However, it was during the era of colonization that the country's economy was on the rise: agriculture, processing and mining industries were actively developing, and today it is one of the poorest countries on the planet. Zimbabwe attracts tourists with its natural beauty, national parks, caves with rock paintings of ancient people and of course the famous Victoria Falls.

Zimbabwe - “stone houses”

1. Capital

Capital of Zimbabwe– the most modern and liveliest city in the country Harare (Harare) , located in the northeastern part of the republic, at an altitude of about 1500 m. The city was founded in 1890 by British settlers and until 1982 bore the name Salisbury (Salisbury) . Since 1898 the city was under a protectorate, and in 1923 Salisbury declared the administrative center of the self-governing colony of Southern Rhodesia, power in which belonged to the white population. Today Harare is the largest city Zimbabwe, its cultural and industrial center, with wide branched avenues, green parks, glass skyscrapers, perfectly combined with ancient buildings in the Dutch style. The main attractions of the capital are the unique reserves of exotic African nature, the National Archives and National Gallery Zimbabwe, storing paintings by European artists and art objects made by local craftsmen. Close to Harare is one of the wonders of nature - Victoria Falls.

2. Flag

Flag of Zimbabwe is a rectangular panel with seven equal horizontal stripes, with an aspect ratio of 2:1. The stripes are located on flag in the following order: green, yellow, red, black, red, yellow, green. On the left side of the canvas there is a white equilateral triangle, inside of which, against the background of a five-pointed red star, a golden “ bird of Zimbabwe" .

Symbolism:

• green color symbolizes Zimbabwean agriculture
• yellow – a symbol of wealth in mineral resources
• Red color - blood shed during the War of Independence.
• black color - ethnicity of the indigenous African peoples of Zimbabwe
• White color - a symbol of peace
• bird - historical heritage Zimbabwe

The stylized image of the bird belongs to the valuable archaeological rarities found in the country - figurines made of soapstone, which have become the national symbol of the country. Today, the image of the Zimbabwe bird is minted on coins and placed on the state coat of arms.

Coat of arms of Zimbabwe is a composition in the center of which there is a green shield with 14 blue-white waves in the upper part, which is held by two forest kudu antelopes standing on top of an earthen mound consisting of stalks of wheat, cotton, and corn sprouts. Ancient ruins are depicted in the center of the shield Great Zimbabwe. Behind the shield, on the left side, there is an agricultural hoe and on the right side, a Kalashnikov assault rifle, which are connected with each other by an intertwined golden-green rope. The coat of arms is surmounted by a red star and the Bird of Zimbabwe, and at its base is a silver ribbon with the motto on English language: :« Unity, Freedom, Work » , which translated means: "Unity, Freedom, Labor" .

Symbolism:

• Kudu antelopes are a symbol of unity among different ethnic groups in Zimbabwe
• earthen mound - the need for constant provision of the country's inhabitants
• green shield – fertile lands of the country and waters of the republic
• Great Zimbabwe symbolizes the historical heritage of the nation
• hoe and machine gun - the struggle for peace and democracy, as well as the transition from war to peace
• gold and green stripes - national financial companies and economic protection
• bird - historical heritage Zimbabwe
• red five-pointed star - a symbol of revolution, the struggle for freedom, hope for a better future

4. Anthem

listen to national anthem of Zimbabwe

5. Currency

National currency of Zimbabwe until 2009 there was Zimbabwean dollar (zimbabwean dollar) (international designation: ZWL, letter designation $, Z$), equal to 100 cents. However, on April 12, 2009 it became known about the ban on circulation Zimbabwe dollar. Instead, residents of the country began to use US dollars, British pounds, as well as the currencies of neighboring countries with more stable economies.

In 2016 due to a lack of cash US dollars the country issued promissory notes - quasi-currency , tied to US dollar in a 1:1 ratio. In 2019 Zimbabwe decided to restart issuing its own national currency - RTGS ( Real Time Gross Settlement— Gross settlements in real time) and abandon the dollar as a means of payment. Well RTGS not announced yet. According to the head of the Central Bank of Zimbabwe, John Mangudya, it will be established naturally during trading on the new interbank foreign exchange market. All surrogate currencies and electronic dollars will be renamed dollars RTGS.

6. Zimbabwe on the world map

Republic of Zimbabwe- inland state, located in the south Africa, bordering in the south with South Africa, in the southwest and west - with, in the west and northwest - with, in the east - with Mozambique. It has no access to the sea. General Zimbabwe Square amounts to 390,757 km², most of which cover the plateau Mashona And Matabele occupying the central part of the country. The average elevation of these plateaus is 1,371 meters. There are hills to the north and south of these plateaus Matobo And Chizarayra. From the east the plateau is bordered by a mountain range - Eastern Highlands with the highest point of the country - Mt. Inyangani (2592 meters). The rest of the country is occupied by plains. Lowest point Zimbabwe– river crossing Runde And Save(height – 162 meters above sea level). Main rivers - Zambezi, Limpopo, Sabi, Shangani, Sanyati and Lundi. A large reservoir was created on the Zambezi River - Kariba, also on Zambezi there is a famous Victoria Falls . The width of the water flow in it is 1700 meters, and the height is 120 meters.

7. What is worth seeing in Zimbabwe

Below is a list of the most popular attractions, which you should pay attention to when planning excursions in Zimbabwe:

• Devil's Pool
• Victoria Falls
• Masuwe Game Reserve
• Matetsi Game Reserve
• National Gallery of Zimbabwe
• Great Zimbabwe National Monument
• Matobo National Park
• Huengge National Park
• Tuley Park
• Zambezi River
• Ruins of the Acropolis

8. Largest cities

1. Harare (Harare) — capital of Zimbabwe— population 1,725,976 people
2. Bulawayo - population 748,674
3. Chitungwiza - population 357,145 people
4. Mutare - population 185,273 people
5. Epworth - population 152,116 people
6. Gweru - population 141,816 people
7. Kwekwe - population 99,578 people
8. Kadoma - population 77,498 people
9. Masvingo - population 72,115 people
10. Norton - population 67,138 people

9. Climate

Climate in the northern part Zimbabwe subequatorial , and in the south - tropical, with three distinct seasons. The first season, the so-called warm humid summer, which here lasts from November to March, with an average air temperature of +22°C...+26°C, the second season is cool dry winter(from April to June, with an average air temperature of +15°C... +18°C, there are even frosts in the mountains), third season - hot dry spring a (from August to October, with an average air temperature of +30°C to +35°C). The average annual rainfall in the Limpopo River Valley is 350 - 400 mm, on the plateau - 900 - 1000 mm on the plateau and about 2000 mm in the Eastern Highlands. Their maximum number occurs from December to January.

10. Population

Population of Zimbabwe 16,943,178 people (data as of April 2019), of which 98% are Africans , mainly peoples Shona (about 80%) and Ndebele (about 15%). In addition to Africans, the country is home to a small percentage of mulattoes and people from Asia (Indians and Chinese), as well as Europeans (British, Portuguese). Average female life expectancy population of Zimbabwe is 52-54 years old, and for men - 51-53 years old.

11. Language

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages — English , Shona , Ndebele , Venda, sign languages, Kalanga, Khoisan languages, Xhosa, Nambia, Ndau, Nyanja, Sesotho, Tswana, Tonga, Chibarwe and Shangani. However, the most common language is Shona, which is considered their "first" tongue about 70% population of Zimbabwe and the Ndebele language, which is "relatives" for 20% of the country's residents. English is used in business and serves as the main language for the majority of the population of the Republic. IN high school Training is conducted entirely in English.

12. Religion

One of the most common religions in Zimbabwe is Christianity , it is professed by about 80% of the country's population. Of these, 10% are Catholics, and the rest are Protestants, members of sects, marginal organizations and adherents of Afro-Christian syncretic cults. 17% of the population of Zimbabwe adhere to local traditional beliefs, 1% are followers of Islam, 0.3% profess Judaism, Hinduism and Buddhism. Adherents of new religious movements are about 0.3%.

13. Holidays

National and public holidays of Zimbabwe:

• January 1 - New Year
• April 18 - Zimbabwe Independence Day
• moving date in March-April - Easter and Easter holidays
• May 1—Workers' Day
• May 25 - Africa Day
• August 12 — Heroes Day
• August 13 — Defense Forces Day
• December 22 — National Unity Day
• December 25 – Christmas
• December 26th – Boxing Day

14. Souvenirs and gifts

Below is a small scroll most common and popular souvenirs and gifts, which tourists usually bring from Zimbabwe:

• drum of the Batonka tribe
• wooden giraffe on six legs
• wooden ritual masks
• wooden statues
• wooden animal figurines
• stone sculpture of the Shona tribe
• 100 trillion Zimbabwean dollar bill
• dishes, decorations, vases and cutlery made of copper
• soapstone figurines
• healing herbs
• jewelry

15. “Neither nail nor rod” or customs rules

Zimbabwe Customs Regulations do not limit the amount of imported foreign currency, but the sum exceeds $50 000 are subject to mandatory declaration. The export of foreign currency is permitted no more than $10 000 for one person.

Allowed:

Duty-free import is allowed up to 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 100 cigarillos, or 500 g of tobacco, 1 liter of alcoholic beverages (over 25% alcohol volume), or 2 liters of light alcoholic drinks (up to 25% alcohol volume. Non-commercial amount of gifts and other goods for personal use.

Forbidden:

The import of hunting weapons and ammunition, automatic and military weapons, explosives, drugs and narcotic drugs in any form, medical preparations containing narcotic substances, and unprocessed precious stones is prohibited. The export of agricultural products, hunting trophies and unprocessed dredges is prohibited. stones, cultural artifacts and other objects of cultural significance, palm trees and any products made from them.

Pets:

To import pets, a veterinary certificate and a vaccination certificate are required. Essential health information for travelers to Zimbabwe.

Malaria is present in Zimbabwe. Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers planning to visit this country. All travelers should consult a doctor before traveling to the country to ensure that you have all required vaccinations.

Electrical voltage Zimbabwe: 220 volt , at a frequency of 50 hertz . Socket type: Type D , Type G .

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West Sahara (Western Sahara) - disputed territory located in the northwest Africa, which is currently recognized by only 84 states. Until 1976, the region was a Spanish possession and was called Spanish Sahara . In 1979 West Sahara was occupied Morocco, only 20% of the territory remained unoccupied. On April 23, 2005, the Polisario Front, waging a guerrilla war against Moroccan troops with Algerian support, declared Western Sahara an independent state called Saharan Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) .

West Sahara is located in the Sahara Desert, and is washed in the west by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. All the best resorts in the country are concentrated along the entire coast. This is where travelers can find the most beautiful hotels, restaurants, bars, sports grounds, and entertainment complexes, soak up the warm sand in a quiet and secluded place, swim in the clearest waters of the ocean, get acquainted with the history and culture of the nomadic people of the Sahara.

1. Capital

Capital of Western Sahara city Laayoune (El Aaiún) located in the northwest Africa, 20 km from the Atlantic coast. The city occupies the territory of an oasis on the southern bank of the Hamra river valley. Due to the fact that the city is under Moroccan control, the de facto temporary capital is the city Tifariti. Laayoune divided into two parts: the lower part, which includes the old center, and the upper part, where the city administration is located. A little above the urban area on Hamra there is a dam along which a national highway passes.

The city was founded by the Spaniards and until 1958 was part of the Spanish protectorate. In 1975, after the withdrawal of the Spaniards from this area, by order of the ruler of Morocco, King Hassan, the territory of Western Sahara, including the city, was occupied Laayoune. From that period to the present time, control has been exercised here by the Moroccan administration. The city is unusual in that many of its streets still do not have their own names. Only numbers are used to designate them. From historical buildings the remains of a Spanish fort, a Great Mosque and a Spanish cathedral have been preserved.

2. Flag

Flag of Western Sahara is a four-color rectangular panel with an aspect ratio of 1:2. The flag consists of three equal horizontal stripes: black, white and green (from top to bottom). On the right side, near the pole, there is a red isosceles triangle, the base of which coincides with the right side of the flag. The white stripe features a red crescent and star.

Symbolism:

• black color symbolizes death
• White color- a symbol of peace
• green color symbolizes eternal life
• red crescent and star - symbols of Islam

Coat of arms of Western Sahara is a composition in the center of which there are two crossed rifles with the country’s flag. Above the rifles are a red crescent and a star. Coat of arms framed on both sides by olive branches, and at its base, on a red ribbon, the motto is written in black letters in Arabic «حرية ديمقراطية وحدة» , which translated means - "Freedom, Democracy, Unity" .

Symbolism:

• black color symbolizes death
• White color- a symbol of peace
• green color symbolizes eternal life
• olive branches symbolizes peace
• Red Crescent and star - symbols of Islam
• rifles- a weapon with which residents defend the independence of the country

4. Anthem

listen to the national anthem of Western Sahara

5. Currency

Official currency of Western Sahara is Saharan peseta(unofficially the letter designation is EHP), but in fact in this territory they are used in circulation Moroccan dirham , Algerian dinar , Moorish ouguiya And Euro . It is noteworthy that Saharan pesetas are made only in the form of coins, there are no banknotes. First Saharan pesetas were issued in 1990 in denominations of 1, 2 and 5 pesetas . Currently, standard coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 50 pesetas , as well as commemorative coins in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 40,000 pesetas from various metals: copper, copper and nickel alloys, steel, silver and gold.

6. Western Sahara on the world map

West Sahara- disputed territory in North Africa, bordered in the north by Morocco, in the northeast by Algeria, in the east and south by Mauritania, and in the west by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. General Western Sahara area amounts to 266,800 km² , most of which is low and flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces. The country's territory is conventionally divided into 2 regions - Southern (Rio de Oro) and Northern (Seguiet el-Hamra). The lowest point is the Sebzhet-Takh depression (- 55 m), the highest is the nameless mountain in the north (463 m).

There are no permanent rivers, the soils are rocky and sandy desert. The flora is quite poor - mostly shrubs and herbs, and only near rare oases and in the lower reaches of dry rivers do they grow different types acacias, thujas, palms and ficus. The main representatives of the animal world are wild boars, antelopes, snakes, cheetahs, jackals and hyenas.

7. What is worth seeing in Western Sahara

Below is a list of the most popular attractions, which you should pay attention to when planning excursions in Western Sahara :

8. Largest cities

1. Laayoune (Laayoune) — capital of Western Sahara— population 183,691 people
2. Dakhla - population 58,104 people
3. Smara - population 40,347 people
4. Bujdur - population 36,843 people
5. El Marsa - 10,229 people
6. House - population 8769 people
7. Mahbes - population 7331 people
8. Guelta Zemmour - population 6,740 people
9. Bir Enzaran - population 6597 people
10. Tishla - population 6036 people

Population data for cities in Western Sahara is presented for 2015.

9. Climate

Climate of Western Sahara — dry tropical , with fairly high temperatures and frequent changes in daily indicators. The average daytime air temperature in the interior of the country is +32°С ... +36° С, sometimes rising to +50° С, and at night the air cools down to almost zero. On the coast, the air temperature during the day is more comfortable: +18°С…+22°С. There is very little precipitation and, as a rule, its average annual amount does not exceed 100 mm, and in most parts of the country even 50 mm.

10. Population

Population of Western Sahara — 622,823 people (data as of April 2018), the majority are Moorish Arabs. The country is also home to nomadic Plenha Regheibat, other Bedouin groups and migrants from Morocco. Average female life expectancy population of Western Sahara 61 – 63 years old, and for men 57 – 59 years old.

To know population of Western Sahara at this moment you can

11. Language

Official languages ​​of Western Sahara are literary Arab And Spanish (former colonial language). However, the most widespread and native language for Western Sahara residents is Hassaniya(colloquial variety of Arabic), having official status state language. IN northern parts Western Sahara predominates Berber language .

12. Religion

home religion in Western Sahara — Islam . Sunni Muslims make up almost 100% of the country's entire believing population.

13. Holidays

National and public holidays of Western Sahara:

• January 1 - European New Year
• moving date in September - February - Ramadan
• moving date in October-February - Eid al-Saghir (Eid al-Fitr), the end of Ramadan
• movable date - first day of Muharram (Muslim New Year)
• moving date - Mawlid, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad
• moving date in April - Eid al-Kabir (Eid al-Adha), the holiday of sacrifice
• May 1 - Labor Day
• July 9 is Youth Day.
• February 27 - Day of the Proclamation of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic

14. Souvenirs and gifts

Below is a small scroll most common and popular souvenirs and gifts, which tourists usually bring from Western Sahara:

• wooden boxes and chess sets
• granny slippers with curved toes
• forged lamps
• cosmetics based on natural oils
• local wooden decorations
• local leather goods
• original openwork decorations
• spices
• cotton shawls
• wool carpets
• exotic dishes made of clay and copper

15. “Neither nail nor rod” or customs rules

Western Sahara Customs Regulations do not limit the amount of imported foreign currency, but amounts over 1,500 US dollars are subject to mandatory declaration. you need an amount equivalent to 15,000 Moroccan dirhams or more. Local currency is prohibited for export, and money can be exchanged back only with a receipt for the initial exchange. An amount in currency that does not exceed the declared quantity is allowed for export, otherwise the purchase must be confirmed with a certificate from the bank.

Allowed:

You can import duty free: 1 liter of strong alcohol and 1 liter of wine, one block of cigarettes, 250 grams of raw tobacco, 50 cigars, perfumes up to 5 grams and items for personal use. Professional video and photographic equipment can be imported with special permission and included in the declaration. A permit will also be required if you are transporting purchased antiques.

Forbidden:

Materials containing elements of violence, pornography and erotica, drugs, products that violate the laws of Islam and insult believers, drugs and weapons are completely prohibited. Sports weapons and ammunition can only be imported with a special permit. It is prohibited to export objects of history and art for which you do not have an export permit.

Pets

Pets (dogs or cats) can only be brought into Western Sahara if they have an international veterinary certificate.

Electrical voltage Western Sahara: 230 volts , at a frequency of 50 hertz . Socket types: Type C , Type F .

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Zambia (Zambia) or full official form - Republic of Zambia (Republic of Zambia) - a state located in South Africa . Independence Zambia acquired in 1964, and before that it was subordinate to Great Britain and was called Northern Rhodesia . This is a country with an interesting culture, original traditions, unique places, memorable for a lifetime. This land contains the most beautiful nature reserves, with rare animals, a wide variety of birds and unusual plants. Vast expanses of still unexplored national parks, tiny villages, densely populated by local natives, world famous Victoria Falls and life that has not changed for centuries. This small African country has almost no cities, and the population is one of the lowest in the world. African continent.

Egypt (Egypt) or official name: Arab Republic of Egypt (Arab Republic of Egypt) - a state located in North Africa and Sinai Peninsula Asia. Egypt- the cradle of one of ancient civilizations, largest country in the Middle East, located on two continents. Business card The Egyptian people are the tombs of the pharaohs, pyramids, mysterious sands and endless deserts. In Egypt Not only the most interesting excursion program, but also a comfortable stay on amazing beach resorts on the shore Mediterranean And red sea. There are all conditions for scuba diving enthusiasts, and the marine flora and fauna is one of the most beautiful in the world. Egypt– these are upscale hotels and restaurants for every taste, a vibrant and varied night life, exciting and educational cruises along the Nile on comfortable ships, evening performances in Cairo Opera House. Egypt– one of the most mysterious states, whose history attracts tourists from all over the world, one of the most popular tourist destinations.

Djibouti ( Djibouti) , officially Republic of Djibouti (Republic of Djibout) is a small African state in East Africa, located next to restive Somalia. From the end of the 19th to the middle of the 20th century Djibouti was a colony of France, and only in 1977 the country gained independence. Djibouti- one of the driest countries in the world, the typical landscape of which is mountain ranges, extinct volcanoes and lava plateaus, there are hot springs and unique salt lakes, due to the white coating of salt, sometimes it seems reminiscent of the North Pole. Here you will not see bright, colorful jungles and rich fauna, on the contrary - deserted Martian landscapes, the unusualness of which will take the breath away even of the most experienced travelers. Coast Djibouti has wonderful long beaches, huge number coral coastal reefs and luxurious laurel fields.

Djibouti - a country of “cosmic” landscapes

1. Capital

Capital of the Republic of Djibouti– port city Djibouti , located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Tadjoura of the Indian Ocean. The city was founded in 1888 by the French as an outpost of their colonial expansion into eastern Africa. Since 1892 it was the administrative center of the colony French Coast Somalia, and only in 1981 Djibouti became a free port. More than half the country's population lives in the capital, and its entire economy is built around an international port and a free economic zone Djibouti. From colonial times to Djibouti remains the largest French military base in Africa, where a significant part of the French Foreign Legion is stationed, as well as a large American military base.

The urban space of the capital is divided into European and African areas. The European quarters, located near the port and the central Menelik Square, are lined with buildings in Ottoman and neo-Moorish styles and contrast strongly with the poor "folk" district of Balbala. The symbol of the capital and its main attraction is Presidential palace, in which the President of the Republic and the Council of Ministers sit. Magnificent beaches Djibouti attract diving enthusiasts and allow you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Indian Ocean.

2. Flag

Flag of Djibouti is a three-color rectangular panel, the aspect ratio of which is 2:3. The flag consists of two equal horizontal stripes: blue at the top and green at the bottom. At the flagpole there is a white isosceles triangle, on which a red five-pointed red star is depicted.

Symbolism:

• blue color symbolizes the sky and water, namely the Indian Ocean, which washes the shores Djibouti, as well as the Issa people
• green color symbolizes the nature of Africa and the Afar tribes
• white color is a symbol of peace and harmony

Coat of arms of Djibouti- a symbol of confrontation between two clans: afarov (danakil) And Issa (Somali). These clans have been fighting against each other for a long time. When Djibouti was colonized France, all political life clan ruled the country danakil. But when the republic gained its independence and was no longer a colony, the government passed into the hands of Somalis. These events in the early eighties led to clashes and discontent between the clans. Ten years later they escalated into a civil war, which ended only in this millennium. On coat of arms of Djibouti depicts two laurel branches intertwined, glorifying their state. Top coat of arms decorated with a bright red five-pointed star, and under it there is a spear covered with a shield. On either side of the spear are hands holding two drawn swords

Symbolism:

• laurel branches symbolize the glory of the young state
• spear and shield - traditional weapons of the local population
• the hands symbolize the two main clans of the republic - afarov (danakil) And Issa (Somali)
• red star – a symbol of the unity of the people

4. Anthem

listen to the national anthem of Djibouti

5. Currency

National currency of the Republic of Djibouti — Djiboutian franc (international designation – DJF ), equal 100 centimes. Currently in circulation there are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 francs , as well as banknotes in denominations of 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 francs . According to the local Central Bank, there are also centimes - small coins of Djibouti (100 centimes equal 1 franc ). But due to rapid inflation, almost no one uses them. Well Djiboutian franc To ruble or any other currency in the world can be viewed on the currency converter below :

coins of Djibouti

banknotes of Djibouti

6. Djibouti on the world map

Djibouti– a small state in the northeast Africa, bordering on the southeast with Somalia, in the south and west with Ethiopia, in the north with Eritrea, and in the east it is washed by the waters of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Gulf of Aden Indian Ocean. Djibouti Republic Square amounts to 23,200 km² .

The country's topography is mountainous and consists of an alternation of mountain ranges and lava plateaus, with cones extinct volcanoes. Highest point of Djibouti — Mount Musa Ali (height 2028 m), the central part of the country is occupied by rocky, sandy or clayey plains, the lowest areas of which are occupied by salt lakes. The most big lake – Assal . All rivers are drying up. The vegetation cover of the Republic is desert or semi-desert, the grass cover is very sparse. On separate mountain peaks and on the slopes there are sparse forests of junipers, olive trees and acacias, and in the oases there are palm trees.

7. What to see in Djibouti

Here's a small one list of attractions, which you should pay attention to when planning excursions around Djibouti:

• Ardoukoba volcano
• Mount Garbi
• Mount Hemed
• Mabla Mountains
• Goda Mountains
• mountain range Arrei Mountains
• mountain range Arta Mountains
• mountain range Boura Mountains
• Day Forest National Park
• Djibouti mangrove swamp
• Hamoudi mosque
• Lake Abbe
• Lake Assal
• Dumeira Islands
• Moucha Island
• Hor Ambado beach
• port of Djibouti
• Presidential Palace of Djibouti
• Strait of Bab el Mandeb
• tropical Aquarium Djibouti
• Boina fumarole field
• Garbes fumarole field
• central market of djibouti

8. Largest cities

10 largest cities in the Republic of Djibouti:

1. Djibouti is the capital of the Republic of Djibouti
2. Ali-Sabie
3. Dikhil
4. Tadjoura
5. Ali-Adde
6. Holhol
7. Yoboki

9. Climate

Climate of Djibouti tropical , extremely hot and dry. Average air temperatures throughout the year range from +26 °C to +30 °C, and in the hot season (from June to September) - +36 °C to +40 °C. There is very little precipitation - from 50 to 130 mm per year, 95% of days a year pass without precipitation. The water temperature in most reservoirs is 30 °C...35 °C and does not contribute to cooling at all.

10. Population

Population of Djibouti amounts to 931,115 people (data as of February 2019). The majority (62%) are the Issa, Abgal and Dalol peoples of Somalia. 34% are Afars (or Danakil) and 4% other peoples: French, Italians, Greeks and Arabs (mostly people from Yemen). Standard of living in Djibouti quite low, and more than 45% of the country's residents are below the poverty line. A tenth of Djiboutians lead a nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle. The average life expectancy of the female half of the population is 44 - 46 years, and the male half is 42 - 44 years.

To know Djibouti population at this moment you can

11. Language

Official languages ​​of the Republic of Djibouti French And Arab . On French spoken in educational and administrative institutions, Arabic say Yemenis and other immigrants from Arab countries. The majority of the population speaks Somali And Afar languages ​​belonging to the Cushitic language group.

12. Religion

Dominant religion in Djibouti is Sunni Islam , it is professed by 94% of the country's population, and there is also a small number of Shiites. 5% of the Republic's residents are adherents of Christianity, 1% of Djiboutians profess Buddhism and Hinduism. Some nationalities at the same time maintain adherence to traditional beliefs.

13. Holidays

National holidays of Djibouti:

• January 1 - New Year
• movable date in December - February - Eid el-kebir (Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha - Kurban Bayram)
• moving date in December-February - 1st day of Muharram (New Year according to the Muslim calendar)
• May 1 - Labor Day
• moving date in spring and summer - Mulud (Mawlid an-Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad)
• June 27 — Independence Day
• movable date in October - Al-Isra al-Miraj (Rajab Bayram - a Muslim holiday in memory of the Prophet’s night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and back)
• movable date in October - November - Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha), Muslim holiday of the end of fasting

14. Souvenirs and gifts

Below is a small scroll most common and popular souvenirs and gifts, which tourists usually bring from Djibouti:

• arafatki
• pearl products
• coral products
• shell products
• products made of embossed leather (knife cases, bags, flasks, paintings)
• silverware
• leather jewelry (bracelets, necklaces, beads)
• beads
• silver jewelry

15. “Neither nail nor rod” or customs rules

Djibouti Customs Regulations do not limit the amount of imported/exported national and foreign currency.

Allowed:

Duty-free import allowed up to 200 pcs. cigarettes, strong alcoholic drinks (with an alcohol content of more than 22%) - up to 1 liter, liqueurs and fortified wines (strength less than 22%) - 2 liters, dry wines - up to 2 liters, up to 50 g of perfume, 1 kg of meat, 2 kg fish. Food products must be marked with expiration dates.

Forbidden:

Import prohibited narcotic substances in any form, weapons and ammunition, printed and video materials of a pornographic nature. The export of historical valuables, corals, sea turtle shells, other types of marine flora and fauna, as well as the skins of wild animals is prohibited.

16. Voltage in the electrical network

Electrical voltage Republic of Djibouti: 1971-1997, which bore the name Republic of Zaire, and in 1960-1964 — Republic of the Congo. Before 1960 years was a colony of Belgium. There are two states in Africa with the same name: Congo with capital Brazzaville And Democratic Republic of the Congo with capital Kinshasa. Both are located in the pool Congo River and on its banks. DR Congo- second largest country by area in Africa and the eleventh in the world, which is home to many national parks, reserves and other natural attractions that remain in their original form. Despite its natural resources, DR Congo is one of the poorest countries in the world. There are quite often cases of armed robbery in the country, including against foreigners. An increased security risk is posed by visiting the eastern and north-eastern regions of the country, along the borders with Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and Sudan, where there have been years of fighting between government forces and illegal armed groups.

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Education

Mali (country). State in West Africa

August 30, 2015

Each country has a lot interesting features and details. There is a lot to be said about any of them. Especially if it is a distant and exotic region. For example, the African Republic of Mali. What is the first thing you should know about it?

Geographical position

Mali can be found on the map in the west of the African continent. The country's territory occupies almost one and a half million square kilometers, or more precisely, 1.24. Twenty-two thousand of them are occupied by water, and the rest are land. The size of the country can be better understood by knowing that it is comparable to South Africa or twice the size of Texas. The length of the border is seven thousand two hundred and forty-three kilometers. To the west of the country is Senegal, to the north are Algeria and Mauritania, to the east are Niger and Burkina Faso, to the south of Mali is the country of Cote d'Ivoire, formerly known as the Ivory Coast, as well as Guinea.

Capital and regions

Like any country, Mali has a complex system administrative division. According to it, the territory is divided into eight regions. A separate unit is the capital of Mali - Bamako. The regions are divided into districts, of which there are two hundred and eighty-eight in the country. In addition to the administrative division, there is also a geographical one. The nature of Mali is divided into five large areas. These are deserts in the north of the state, a transition region - the Sahel, two types of savannas and the territory of the Niger Delta.

water pool

The largest river is the Niger, which flows from Guinea, crosses Mali and heads northeast. There are many branches, channels and lakes, as well as swamps in the riverbed. In the delta there are structures that allow the distribution of water for irrigation. Since the Republic of Mali is located in a fairly dry region, the presence of hydraulic engineering is of great importance for it. Some artificial irrigation canals follow the historical course of the Niger. In the west of the country there is also the Senegal River, which appears as a result of the confluence of Bakoy and Bafing. Its delta contains Mali's lowest point. The country is also distinguished by several elevations. In the southwest, the sandstone mountains frame the upper basin of the Niger and the Bani, which is a tributary.

Mountain ranges

In addition to the sandstone plateaus, there are other zones of uplift in the territory. The mountains between the cities of Gao and Mopti are especially pronounced. To the east of the latter there is a remnant massif called Hombori. The highest point is a mountain of one thousand one hundred and fifty-five meters. This is a record not only for the massif, but for the entire country. Another major elevation is the Adrar-Iforas plateau.

Vegetation

Despite the harsh, hot climate that characterizes Africa, Mali boasts a variety of flora. Most of the areas are covered with a variety of shrubs and grasses. In the Sahel there are acacias, doum palms, baobabs, nere, kapok trees, shea butter, ceiba, wild plums and other exotic varieties. In the south there are ronier palms, Senegalese kayas, terminalia, and various herbaceous plants.

Animal world

The fauna of Mali is impressive with its incredible diversity. In desert areas, large antelopes are most often found - oryxes, addaxes, as well as gazelles, cheetahs, giraffes and striped hyenas. The savannas are home to warthogs - African wild pigs, and a variety of predators - jackals, lions and leopards. Antelopes are common. Unfortunately, the number of elephants is constantly decreasing. The rivers and lakes of Mali are of considerable importance. The country is engaged in fisheries, the most valuable is the Nile perch, also known as the “captain”. Insects are widely represented - bees, mosquitoes, termites, midges. Many varieties are dangerous to the health of animals and people. The protection of the state's flora and fauna is carried out by a national park called Boucle-du-Baule.

Natural resources

All kinds of resources necessary for the active development of the state are well represented in Mali. The country boasts deposits of precious metals and stones - gold and diamonds are mined here. In addition, copper, bauxite, manganese, uranium, granite, lithium, and table salt can be found in the mines of Mali. There is also kaolin clay in the country.

Climatic conditions

The country is located in a tropical continental zone. To the south, where the capital of Mali is located, the climate is subequatorial. There alternate dry and rainy seasons. The first lasts from November to June, and the second from July to October. During the dry season, northeasterly winds prevail in the country, which lead to sandstorms. In the center of Mali, Bamako, there are impressive temperature fluctuations within one day - in the evenings, nights and early mornings it is cool here, and by noon the thermometer shows more than thirty degrees of heat. In the Sahara region there are harmattan winds, characterized by hurricane force. The temperature here reaches forty-five degrees Celsius. The maximum amount of precipitation differs southern territories- up to one and a half thousand millimeters falls here per year. There are regular droughts throughout the country. In the Sahara region, one hundred and fifty millimeters of rain fall per year, near the city of Timbuktu - two hundred and thirty.

Peoples of Mali

Almost one hundred percent of the country's population is represented by Negroids. Only on some northern territories There are representatives of the Mediterranean type of Caucasians - Arabs and Tuaregs. The ethnic diversity of Mali is impressive - the people of the state number in the dozens. Most of them belong to the Niger-Cordo-Fan language family, there are also representatives of the Western Atlantic, Afroasiatic and Voltaic. The most numerous people are the Bambara, speakers of the most widespread language. This ethnic group can be found in the central part of the country. Next is Malinke with representatives in the west. Like the previous one, these people are mainly engaged in agriculture and livestock breeding.

Both the Senufo and the Mande live by agriculture. On the banks of the Niger live the Songhai, engaged in nomadic cattle breeding. In the most rocky regions live the Dogon, who amazingly achieve success in agriculture in the most unfavorable areas. The Tuaregs deserve special mention. They are a nomadic people from the east. The Arabs are engaged in cattle breeding and trade in the area of ​​Lake Fagibin and in the Sahara. Despite the fact that this people is not the most widespread, it greatly influences the development of the state. Thus, the Muslim religion spread under their influence and became the choice of the majority.

An interesting ethnic group is the Fulani. Their appearance combines characteristics of the Negroid and Caucasian races. They have light brown skin. The Fulani live on the Atlantic coast and in the Sahel, as well as in the Niger Delta. The population that does not adhere to Muslim customs retains traditional beliefs. People worship plants, animals, stones, and also honor the spirits of ancestors. It is interesting that some peoples accept Islam, but retain certain pagan beliefs. The country is characterized by a high rate of population growth - over the last fifteen years, the number of residents has increased by more than two percent annually. Almost half of the citizens are under fifteen years of age, and those of retirement age are no more than six percent.

State symbols of Mali

The country gained independence not so long ago. The symbolism appeared in 1961, after the country ceased to be part of the French Community. The flag is used as a canvas in the shape of a quadrangle, the length of which relates to the width in the proportion of three to two. It is used on land for government, civil and military purposes. The flag is divided into three vertical stripes of equal size. There is a light green stripe at the shaft, a bright yellow stripe in the center, and a red stripe at the edge. The first is a symbol of hope, fields and pastures, agriculture, on which the economy is based. It is also a sign of constant innovation and modernization. Yellow indicates the mineral wealth that belongs to every resident of the country. Finally, red is a sign of the struggle for freedom and independence. Previously, the flag of the colony was a French cloth, complemented by a black figurine of a Kanaga. This is an image of a person that was invented by supporters of the idea of ​​​​the exclusivity of the Negroid race. The racist figure was removed from the symbolism in 1961. Unusually, the coat of arms does not contain the colors of the flag. It is a blue disk on which is drawn a white falcon with a bow and arrow, complemented by a crown.

A territory equal to thirty-two thousand square kilometers constituted the papal region. And this was just over one and a half hundred years ago, in the mid-nineteenth century. But the year 1870 was marked by an event that changed everything: Rome became the main city of Italy. And the papal region becomes part of the Vatican as a state appears only when the Pope and the Italian government were able to agree, namely in 1929. It was then that independence was recognized, and the smallest country acquired its own governance.

Today you can meet followers of the Roman Catholic Church, the center of which is the Vatican. The smallest country in the world is governed by the Holy See, whose sovereign is the Pope. He is elected for life by the College of Cardinals, which consists of two hundred and five representatives, but only 115 of them have the right to vote at the conclave. and the legislative power is held in his hands by the Pope, and this smallest country is governed by a governor, who, however, is also appointed by the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Today, the Vatican occupies an area of ​​0.44 square kilometers and is bordered on all sides by only one state - Italy. Mostly subjects of the Holy See live on the territory of the city-state, and the total population is slightly more than eight hundred people. But despite this, the smallest country is doing quite well economically. Catholics all over the world send donations here, and this is the main source of government income. A fairly large “piece” of the revenue comes from tourists. Most visitors spare no expense in buying gifts and souvenirs for family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances.

But the heart of the Catholic world is, first of all, priceless treasures, which people come from all over the world to see. There is no person who has not heard of the Vatican Library. Manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, books, of which there are more than one and a half million, manuscripts, coins and medals, geographical maps and engravings - this is the golden fund of the library. The Sistine Chapel is known not only as the place of secret meetings of the Pope; there are paintings here made by the hand of the great Michelangelo. St. Peter's Basilica is the largest and most significant building of the Vatican, which for five hundred years has been inextricably linked with the names of such great masters as Raphael and Michelangelo, Bramante and Giacomo della Porta.

The smallest country in Europe and the world has its own railway line, the length of which is only seven hundred meters, but it is part of the Italian railway. It is also surprising that there is helipad, which is connected to two airports in Rome. The Vatican, of course, also has its own post office, police and train station, its own Ministry of Foreign Affairs and an army of one hundred people. It publishes its own newspapers, prints stamps, and mints coins. The presence of its own telephone network and radio broadcasting station, and most importantly - such attributes of state power as a flag and coat of arms indicates that the smallest country is completely independent, that it does not depend on Italy, although its entire territory is located inside the Italian capital. Most countries have diplomatic relations.

The Vatican is located in great location, not far from the Tiber that flows through the whole of Rome. The picturesque hill of Mons Vaticanus takes its name from an ancient oracle. And the appearance of magnificent gardens on this site is also associated with the name of Caligula.

This is a list of the 15 smallest countries in the world. Countries that can be compared in size to a small city. You can walk from end to end of almost every one of these countries in less than a day.

The smallest state on earth. The Vatican is located on the territory of the Eternal City of Rome, on the Monte Vaticano hill and has a state border length of only 3.2 km. In a few hours you can easily walk around the entire country. According to official data, the population of the Vatican is just over 800 people. Another 3,000 people are not citizens of the country, but come here to work every day.

The Vatican is one of the largest open-air museums. Here it is a real treasure trove works of art and architectural monuments, relics of Christianity and unique creations of great masters are stored. A huge number of believers and tourists visit the Vatican territory every day.

Second place in the list of micro states is occupied by the Principality of Monaco. Its territory is 1.95 square meters. km. The length of the state border with France is 4.4 km. The population density in Monaco, unlike the Vatican, is very high - the country is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Local residents are mainly engaged in serving tourists, who are attracted here by magnificent beaches and a huge number of gaming establishments.

The Republic of Nauru is a dwarf state on the coral island of the same name in the western part Pacific Ocean with an area of ​​21.3 km² and a population of 12 thousand people. Nauru is the smallest independent republic on Earth, the smallest island state, the smallest state outside Europe and the only republic in the world without an official capital.

Tuvalu is a dwarf Pacific state in Polynesia. The length of the coastal strip is 21 km. The state is located on 5 atolls and 4 islands of the Tuvalu archipelago. The total land area is 26 km². The country's population is 14 thousand people. The islands gained independence in 1978 (before that the archipelago was a British colony).

The name of the country, translated from the Tuvaluan language, means “eight standing together” (referring to the eight traditionally inhabited islands of Tuvalu. The main problem of the islands is rising sea levels, which threatens the flooding of many of the islands, most of which are located no higher than 5 meters above sea level The country lives on the help of other countries, because it does not have its own natural resources.

5. San Marino

A European state surrounded on all sides by the territory of Italy. The name comes from the name of the Christian saint who founded the state. The country claims to be the oldest state in Europe. The area of ​​the state is 60.57 km². Almost 80% of the country's territory is occupied by mountains and rock formations. Population: 33 thousand people. San Marino is one of the few modern countries, with positive economic indicators. State revenues exceed expenses and the country has no external debt.

Another dwarf European state. The country's area is 160 km². The name of the country comes from the ruling dynasty of Liechtenstein. The Principality is located in the spurs of the Alps, the most high point- Mount Grauspitz (2599 m). One of the largest rivers in Western Europe, the Rhine, flows through the western part of the country. The country's population is 38 thousand people.

Despite its size, Liechtenstein is a prosperous industrial country with a developed banking system. In addition, the Principality of Liechtenstein is included in the black list of “tax havens” - states where residents of other countries avoid taxation.

The Marshall Islands are a Pacific nation in Micronesia. The state is located on 29 atolls and 5 islands of the Marshall Islands archipelago. The length of the coastal strip is 370.4 km. The total land area is 181.3 km² and 11,673 km² are occupied by lagoons. The population of the Marshall Islands is 65 thousand people.

The maximum height above sea level is 10 meters. In the event of a significant rise in sea levels or global climate change, serious environmental consequences are inevitable on individual islands.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands does not have a permanent armed force. According to the agreement, the United States bears responsibility for the security and defense of the country. They have a responsibility to protect the Republic of the Marshall Islands and its citizens from outside attacks and threats.

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is a state in the eastern Caribbean Sea, consisting of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis. Both islands are of volcanic origin and mountainous. The area of ​​the country is 261 km². Population - 53 thousand people. The total length of the coastline is 135 km.

The islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, but the Spaniards did not colonize them. The struggle for possession of the islands was fought for a long time by Great Britain and France. In 1983, the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis gained independence.

The islands have rich tropical vegetation. Mountainous areas are covered with dense tropical forests and orchards. Lianas, mangoes, breadfruit and cinnamon trees, tamarind, avocados, bananas, and papaya grow here. At the tops of the mountains, forests give way to meadows with equally abundant vegetation. The forests are home to numerous tropical birds and butterflies, and there are monkeys. Many seabirds, including pelicans, nest on the coast. The waters abound with fish.

The Republic of Maldives, or simply the Maldives, is a state in South Asia, located on a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south of India. The state is a chain of 20 atolls consisting of 1192 coral islets. Population - about 330 thousand people. The total area is 90 thousand km², the land area is 298 km². The capital Male - the only city and port of the archipelago - is located on the atoll of the same name and is the smallest capital in the world. However, Male is home to a third of the country's total population.

The basis of the economy is serving tourists. Hot but comfortable weather all year round (air temperature from 24 to 30°) has made the Maldives a place of pilgrimage for tourists from all over the world. Fishing comes in second place.

Republic of Malta - Island state in the Mediterranean Sea. The country consists of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino and many small and uninhabited ones. The territory of the state is 316 km². The population of Malta is 420 thousand people. The country bears the title of the least populated state in the European Union.

The main industry of Malta's economy is tourism. Most of the cultural and historical attractions are associated with the Knights of the Johannite Order (Order of Malta). Due to the great diversity of urban and natural landscapes Malta is a popular filming location for feature films. Malta is the only country in Europe that does not have rivers, lakes or its own sources of fresh water.

Grenada is an island state in the southeast Caribbean Sea, occupies the island of Grenada and the southern part of the Grenadines. Total area - 344 sq. km. Population: 110 thousand people.

The island of Grenada is of volcanic origin. In the center of the island is a forested mountain range, dominated by Mount St. Catherine (840 m), the highest point in the country. There are few rivers on the island, but there are many streams and springs. Grenada's economy is based on tourism as well as offshore financial businesses.

The song “Grenada”, written by M. Svetlov in 1926, as it turned out, has nothing to do with the state of Grenada.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - independent state in the Caribbean Sea. The territory consists of the island of Saint Vincent and 32 small islands of the Grenadines group. Area - 389 km². Population - 105 thousand people.

On the island of St. Vincent there is active volcano Soufriere. During our era alone, it has erupted at least 160 times. The last eruption was in 1979. The island's beaches are covered with black volcanic sand; the exception is the white sandy beaches on the southern tip of the island.

Barbados is a small state in the West Indies, located on the island of the same name, which is shaped like a pear. The island has an area of ​​431 km² and is mostly flat with small hills in the middle. Population: 290 thousand people. Barbados is one of the leading developing countries in terms of living standards and literacy.

The basis of the economy is tourism. Many historical monuments, are associated with the rise of piracy in the Caribbean. Barbados is also famous for the production of the famous pirate rum. Approximately every 3 years the island finds itself in the hurricane zone and suffers greatly from the elements.

Antigua and Barbuda is a country in the West Indies located on three islands- Antigua, Barbuda and Redonda. The total territory is 442 km². Population 90 thousand people.

The main source of income is tourism. Antigua and Barbuda is ready to welcome tourists 365 days a year. Coastline Antigua forms many bays (essentially relict volcanic craters) and an extended strip of first-class beaches (it is believed that there are exactly 365 of them on the islands). There are both beaches with developed infrastructure and completely wild, secluded corners.

The Republic of Seychelles is an island state in East Africa. Located in the western Indian Ocean, slightly south of the equator. The republic includes 115 islands, only 33 of them are inhabited. The islands cover an area of ​​455 square kilometers. The country's population is about 90 thousand people.

Main source of income Seychelles For a long time there was an export of cinnamon, coconut and vanilla. Since 1976, when Great Britain granted independence to the Seychelles, tourism has become the main source of income (up to 75% of foreign exchange earnings).

The fruit of the Seychelles palm, which grows only in the Seychelles, weighs 20 kg and is considered the largest fruit in the plant world.

Details Category: West African countries Published 03/17/2015 10:48 Views: 1994

The name "Liberia" means "Land of Freedom". After all, Liberia was founded as an independent state by freeborn and freed American blacks.

The official name of the state is Republic of Liberia. It borders with Sierra Leone, Guinea, Cote d'Ivoire. In the west it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

State symbols

Flag– is a rectangular panel with an aspect ratio of 10:19. The flag of this country resembles the US flag: it consists of 11 stripes (6 red and 5 white) and a blue field with a white star. The eleven stripes represent the eleven signatures on the Declaration of Independence. Red symbolizes courage, and white symbolizes moral principles. White Star symbolizes the liberation of slaves, and the blue square represents the African continent. The flag was approved on July 16, 1847.
The flag of Liberia is the most common flag of the world merchant fleet (about 1,600 ships from other countries fly this flag). This fact is explained by the low cost of duties for using the flag compared to other countries.

Coat of arms– is a shield depicting a 19th century ship arriving in Liberia. The ship symbolizes the ships that brought freed slaves from the United States to Liberia. Above the shield is an unrolled scroll with the national motto of Liberia: “The love of freedom brought us here.” Under the shield is a scroll with instructions in English official name country: "Republic of Liberia".
The plow and shovel are symbols of the dignity of labor and hard work through which a nation will prosper. The rising sun in the background symbolizes the birth of a nation. The palm tree is the most versatile source of nutrition for Liberians. The white dove with scroll symbolizes the breath of peace.

State structure

Form of government- presidential republic.
Head of State and Government– the president, who is elected by general direct elections (by secret ballot) for a 6-year term. There is a post of vice president.

Incumbent since 2006 Helen Johnson Sirleaf. She is the first female president of an African country. Graduated from Harvard University.
Capital and The largest city – Monrovia.
Official language– English, which is spoken by about 20% of the population. The rest speak indigenous languages, which are mostly unwritten.
Territory– 111,369 km².
Administrative division– 15 counties (districts), which are divided into 53 districts (districts).
Population– 4,294,000 people Ethnic composition: Aboriginal blacks 95%, descendants of blacks from the USA 2.5%, descendants of blacks from the Caribbean 2.5%. The urban population is 60%.

Religion– Christians 85%, Muslims 12%, aboriginal cults 1.5%, Bahais, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists.
Currency– Liberian dollar.
Economy– The country is one of the poorest countries in the world. About 80% of the population lives below the poverty level.
One of the largest sources of income is duties for the use of the Liberian flag by merchant ships of other states.

Sugar cane grinding
Large mineral resources: large reserves of iron ore, there are placers of gold, diamonds, rare earth elements. Agricultural, forestry, and hydropower resources are also good. But Liberia's main exports are still raw timber and rubber, and iron ore. Export: coffee, cocoa, diamonds, timber, iron ore. Import: fuel, chemicals, machinery, transport equipment, food. Transport: road, railway, water, air.
Education– 9 years of primary education is officially compulsory, which children receive between the ages of 7 and 16. Education in primary and secondary schools is free (except for an annual admission fee of 10 thousand Liberian dollars). During the civil war, many schools were destroyed. There is one university in the country - the University of Liberia (opened in Monrovia in 1951 on the basis of the Liberian College). The university is under state control, teaching is in English.
Sport- Football is popular. The country has taken part in 11 Summer Olympics since 1956. It has not participated in the Winter Olympics. Liberian athletes have never won an Olympic medal.
Armed forces- ground forces, navy, air force. The police ensure internal order.

Nature

The coastline of Liberia is partially indented by lagoons, mangrove swamps, and estuaries (the mouth of a river that widens toward the sea). The country has a fairly extensive network of rivers. The largest rivers are Mano, St. Paul, Lofa, St. John, Cess and Cavalli. Only the lower St. Paul River is navigable.
Forests occupy 18% of the territory. These are mainly Guea palm trees, valuable tropical species. Liberia has significant reserves of valuable timber.

Acacias, baobabs and other types of trees grow in savannas. Mangrove forests grow on the coast.
There are beautiful sandy beaches on the coast, but many of them are in disrepair.

Sapo National Park created in 1983. This is an island of pristine nature with an area of ​​1800 km², occupied by tropical rainforests. Animals of the park: pygmy hippopotamuses and antelopes, forest elephants, large forest pig, pangolins. In total, more than 100 species of mammals and about 600 species of birds live here.

Pygmy hippopotamus
There are more than 140 species of mammals in Liberia. The forests are home to a wide variety of insects (from termites to tsetse flies), birds, amphibians and reptiles. Wild animals remain mainly in the east and north-west of Liberia: elephants, leopards, antelopes, brush-eared pigs, African (black) buffalo.

Brush-eared pig
Climate tropical: heat and high humidity.

Culture

The most common type of folk dwelling is a hut built on a frame made of poles. The walls are made of stakes held together by vines or bamboo bundles; the outside is plastered with white clay. Walls and sometimes doors are covered with carvings or colored paintings of a geometric nature. The conical roof is made of raffia palm leaves or grass. Often a spire decorated with a faience plate is installed on the roof.

IN modern cities Of course, modern houses are being built - made of brick, reinforced concrete and glass.
Wooden masks are used in rituals, especially in the Poro, Bundu and Sande secret societies.

Mende masks are narrow faces framed by a high hairstyle, the head is carved together with the neck, which is decorated with several rings. Among the Loma people, masks are called “Landa” - these are images of long, flat faces with a convex forehead and small horns.

Professional art began to develop after the Second World War. One of Liberia's most famous artists and sculptors - Laron Brown.
Crafts and arts are developed: wood carving, ivory carving, pottery, metal working, weaving baskets and bags from straw and plant fibers.
Modern literature is developing in English and local languages.

Professional musicians and singers appeared in the middle of the 20th century. Popular musician Otto Brown, traditional music ensemble “Loffa-30”. Popular music in the styles of high-life and al-jad has become widespread.

Sights of Liberia

Monrovia

Capital of Liberia. Located in an artificial bay at the mouth of the Saint Paul River. Population 1,010,970 people.
Tourists in Monrovia may be interested in National Museum Liberia, the Masonic Palace of Monrovia, the coastal market and several beaches, the Antoinette Tubman Stadium for 10,000 people, the Samuel Canyon Doe Sports Complex with 40,000 seats and which is one of the largest in Africa.

Masonic Palace

Samuel Canyon Dow Sports Complex

National Multi-Purpose Complex, built in 1986. It was destroyed during the First and Second Civil Wars from 1980-2003. Reconstructed in 2007
Mainly used for football matches, it has an athletics track.
The stadium surface is grass. Plasma video screens show the progress of the competition.

Lake Piso

Salt lake with an area of ​​about 100 km², one of the largest in Liberia.
There are several islands on it, the lake is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by narrow channels. In 1999, the lake was declared a protected area, and work is underway to study and preserve the unique flora and fauna of this region.
In the past the lake was quite major resort, which fell into disrepair during the First and Second Civil Wars. Lake Piso attracts fishing enthusiasts, water sports and ethnotourism.

Centenary Pavilion

A symbol of Liberian statehood, ceremonies and holidays that are significant for the country are held here. It was built in 1947 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Liberia.
The Centennial Pavilion hosts inaugurations and farewells to deceased statesmen.

Story

Archaeological research shows that the territory of Liberia has been inhabited since about the 12th century.
From the middle of the 15th century. and until the end of the 17th century. Portuguese, Dutch and British traders had trading posts on the territory of modern Liberia. The Portuguese called this region Costa da Pimenta (Pepper Coast) due to the abundance of Melegetian pepper grains.
In 1822, Americans founded a colony of “free people of color” on the coast of modern Liberia. It operated under the auspices of the American Colonization Society. By agreement with the leaders of local tribes, the settlers acquired territories with an area of ​​more than 13 thousand km² for goods worth a total of 50 US dollars.
In 1824, this colony received the name Liberia, and its constitution was adopted. By 1828, settlers had captured the entire coast of modern Liberia, as well as parts of the coast of modern Sierra Leone and Cote d'Ivoire.
The independence of the Republic of Liberia was proclaimed on July 26, 1847. The settlers perceived the African continent, from where their ancestors were taken into slavery, as a “promised land.” But they behaved in a unique way: when they arrived in Africa, they called themselves Americans. This is how they were perceived by the residents of neighboring Sierra Leone. The symbols of their state (flag, motto and seal), the chosen form of government reflected the American past of the Americo-Liberians.
Mutual distrust and hostility between the “Americans” from the coast and the “natives” from the hinterland gave rise to the (quite successful) attempts throughout the history of the country by the Americo-Liberian minority to dominate the local blacks, whom they considered barbarians and inferior people.
The Liberian authorities faced three serious problems: territorial conflicts with neighboring colonial powers (Britain and France), hostilities between settlers and local residents and the threat of financial insolvency.

XX century

At the beginning of the First World War, Liberia declared its neutrality. She hoped to maintain trade relations with Germany, which accounted for more than half of Liberia's foreign trade turnover. But the Entente countries established a blockade of maritime trade routes, which deprived Liberia of its most important trading partner.
At the beginning of World War II, Liberia again declared neutrality, but its territory was used to transport American troops to North Africa. In 1944, Liberia officially declared war on Germany.
After World War II, Liberia, thanks to US loans, became a major exporter of rubber and iron ore.

Samuel Doe coup of 1980

On April 12, 1980, a coup d'état took place in Liberia. The President of the Republic, William Tolbert, was killed, his comrades were executed, and power in the country was seized by Sergeant Samuel Doe, a representative of the Krahn tribe, who awarded himself the rank of general.
Samuel Canyon Doe, President of Liberia from 1980 to 1990

At first, the change of power was received positively by citizens, but then the ongoing economic recession led to a decline in his popularity and a series of unsuccessful attempts at military coups. Doe was killed by field commander Prince Johnson, and killed brutally, which was recorded on video.
And after all this, Johnson received the post of senator in the government of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2007, and in 2011 he even ran for the presidency of the country.

Civil wars 1989-2003

The large-scale conflict involved several factions divided along ethnic lines. At the first stage of the war, Charles Taylor's group was supported by neighboring states that were involved in the conflict: Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso and Cote d'Ivoire. Military operations were carried out with great cruelty, torture was used. The war resulted in the transfer of more than half a million refugees to neighboring countries. The result was the signing of a peace agreement and the election of the President of the Republic in 1997, which he won Charles Taylor.

Charles Taylor
Charles Taylor's opponents organized a rebel war and invaded Liberia several times from neighboring countries. In 2002, with the active help and support of Guinean President Lansana Conte, a major opposition movement, LURD, was created, which managed to overthrow Taylor and expel him from the country.
In 2003, Interpol issued an arrest warrant for Charles Taylor on charges of crimes against humanity and violations of the 1949 Geneva Convention. Nigeria agreed to hand him over to Liberia, but Taylor disappeared from the seaside villa of Calabar, Nigeria, where he was being held in exile. He was soon caught and transferred to the Hague Tribunal, which in 2012 found Charles Taylor guilty of 11 counts, including crimes against humanity, violations of the Geneva Convention and other international laws. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison.
November 23, 2005 former Minister of Finance of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf won the presidential elections in the country.