Central African Republic, Landlocked country in Central Africa.
The Central African Republic is a landlocked nation in Central Africa, spanning 622,984 square kilometers (240,535 square miles) between Chad, Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon. The country encompasses savannas, tropical rainforests and wide plains, with the Ubangi River forming its southern boundary and several waterways crossing the interior.
After gaining independence from France in 1960, the territory underwent numerous political upheavals with several coups during the following decades. Armed conflicts have disrupted different regions since 2004, while international peacekeeping forces deployed starting in 2013 to support stabilization efforts.
More than 80 ethnic groups inhabit the territory and maintain distinct languages along with separate traditions, with the Gbaya, Banda and Mandjia forming the largest population segments. Music and oral storytelling play central roles in many societies for transmitting history and social values across generations.
Bangui serves as the capital and main entry point, reachable via Bangui M'Poko International Airport with connections to several African and French cities. Security conditions vary considerably across different regions, requiring consultation of current travel advisories before planning visits.
Dzanga-Sangha National Park contains forest clearings where hundreds of forest elephants regularly gather to access mineral-rich springs, creating an exceptional wildlife spectacle. These gatherings allow researchers to study elephant behavior in a relatively accessible environment.
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