Central African Republic

Since gaining independence from France in 1960, the Central African Republic (CAR) has been mired in political instability and sectarian violence. Despite its significant economic potential, the country is home to some 5 million people amongst the poorest in the world. Rich in agricultural and forestry resources, the nation also possesses major reserves of diamonds, gold, oil and uranium. In a historic moment in 2016, the Central African Republic held its first democratic presidential election since independence, a significant step toward national reconstruction. However, despite this progress, significant portions of the country remain under the control of anti-government factions and militia groups vying for control of the country’s vast resources.

Additional challenges hindering the country’s economic growth and development include weak transport infrastructure and geographic isolation, limited energy production capacity, and pervasive corruption. The CAR also struggles with a shortage of skilled labor and one of the widest gender gaps in the world.