The former French colony of Ubangi-Shari became the Central African Republic upon independence in 1960. After three tumultuous decades of misrule - mostly by military governments - a civilian government was installed in 1993.
Location
Central Africa, north of Democratic Republic of the Congo
Area Comparative
Slightly smaller than Texas
Maritime Claims
none (landlocked)
Climate
Tropical; hot, dry winters; mild to hot, wet summers
Natural Hazards
Hot, dry, dusty harmattan winds affect northern areas; floods are common
Environment Current Issues
Tap water is not potable; poaching has diminished its reputation as one of the last great wildlife refuges; desertification; deforestation
Environment International Agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 94
