Central African Republic flag

Central African Republic

Capital

Bangui

Region

Africa

Population

6,470,307

Area (km²)

622,984

💡Quick Summary

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a landlocked nation in Central Africa with a population of about 6.5 million people spread across 622,984 km², making it one of the continent's most sparsely populated countries. Its capital, Bangui, serves as the economic and political hub, though the country faces ongoing challenges like political instability and humanitarian crises despite rich natural resources such as diamonds and timber. With GDP data unavailable, CAR remains one of the world's poorest nations, heavily reliant on agriculture and international aid.

Key Insights

Significant Forest Cover Amidst Development Challenges

Despite its low economic development and infrastructure challenges, the Central African Republic maintains a substantial forest area, covering 35.656% of its land. This indicates a significant natural resource that could be leveraged for sustainable development, if managed properly.

Stark Economic Challenges Amidst Low GDP Growth

The Central African Republic faces significant economic hurdles, characterized by an extremely low GDP per capita of $495.98. This is compounded by a meager GDP growth rate of just 0.700%, indicating minimal economic expansion and limited improvement in living standards for its population.

High Fertility and Low Life Expectancy Point to Development Gaps

A high fertility rate of 6.01 children per woman, coupled with a very low life expectancy of 57.41 years, highlights significant development challenges. This demographic pattern suggests limited access to healthcare, education, and other essential services, contributing to a cycle of poverty.

Critical Health Crisis: High Infant Mortality

The Central African Republic is experiencing a severe public health crisis, evidenced by an alarming infant mortality rate of 60.400 deaths per 1,000 live births. This figure is significantly higher than global averages and underscores urgent needs in maternal and child healthcare.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$2.56B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$495.98

GDP Growth (%)

0.7%

Inflation (%)

2.98%

Unemployment (%)

5.88%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202301,500,0003,000,0004,500,0006,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years15.0years30.0years45.0years60.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$150$300$450$600
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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