Regions of Sub-Saharan Africa
Central Africa
Central Africa’s a stew of diverse countries, each bringing its own flavor to the mix. Here’s who’s in the pot:
- Angola
- Burundi
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Congo
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Republic of Congo
For a more detailed breakdown on each, hop over to our countries of ussr list – don’t ask why we bundled them there.
Eastern Africa
Eastern Africa’s got it all, from wild savannas to towering mountains. The countries making up this vibrant tapestry include:
- Comoros
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Dive into more stories about these lands on our east africa list of countries.
Southern Africa
Southern Africa’s like the showstopper on the travel stage. It’s got jaw-dropping scenes and bustling business hubs. Meet the players:
- Botswana
- Eswatini (once called Swaziland)
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- South Africa
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
To snoop around more, go peek at our list of five letter countries.
Western Africa
Western Africa is where history comes alive with its jam-packed cultures and kaleidoscope of languages. Here’s the roll call:
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cabo Verde
- Cameroon
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Equatorial Guinea
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Liberia
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
Get the scoop by checking out our list of do not travel countries – an ironic twist, perhaps!
Sticklers for data should head over to the World Bank’s website for more nuggets of nerdy goodness.
| Region | Number of Countries |
|---|---|
| Central Africa | 7 |
| Eastern Africa | 12 |
| Southern Africa | 9 |
| Western Africa | 19 |
Countries in Central Africa
Central Africa is a colorful and captivating region in Sub-Saharan Africa that bursts with culture and natural beauty. This part of the planet comprises several countries, each with its quirks and backstories. Here’s a closer glance at the countries that make Central Africa tick.
Angola
Angola hangs around on the southwestern shore of Central Africa and is sitting pretty on a pile of natural goodies like oil and diamonds. Thanks to these, the country’s economy is on the up and up. Now, take the Kwenda Project for example. It’s the heart and soul of Angola’s Social Protection System Project, dropping cash to almost 600,000 households in 18 provinces. By 2023, they’re aiming to stretch that reach to 1.6 million families, making it one of the heavyweights in cash assistance in Sub-Saharan Africa (World Bank).
Burundi
Burundi is all landlocked and hilly, charming with its mountains. Mostly rural, farming takes the spotlight here. This country flexes its muscles with its vibrant cultures and traditions.
Central African Republic
Right in the middle of Africa sits the Central African Republic (CAR). It flaunts sprawling savannas and thick forests and plays a triple threat with its economy leaning hard on agriculture, forestry, and mining.
Chad
Chillin’ in north-central Africa is Chad, a landlocked haven of ethnic diversity and a lingo potluck. With oil, agriculture, and livestock steering the economy and its immense deserts adding flair to the scenery, Chad keeps things intriguing.
Congo
Over on the west coast of Central Africa, you’ll find Congo, often lovingly called Congo-Brazzaville. This is a treasure trove of oil and wood, with an economy that grooves on these resources.
Democratic Republic of Congo
Meet the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – the heavyweight of Sub-Saharan Africa. Not only does it boast vast rainforests, but critical mineral riches like cobalt and diamonds too (IMF). The DRC keeps grappling with economic and governance conundrums.
Rwanda
Rwanda’s a little slice of heaven often dubbed the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” nestled as a small landlocked wonder with a crowd of a population. It’s been catching eyes for its swift economic leaps and strides in environmental care, where national parks are like jewels in its crown.
| Country | Capital | Population (millions) | Main Economic Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angola | Luanda | 32.87 | Oil, Diamonds |
| Burundi | Gitega | 11.89 | Agriculture |
| Central African Republic | Bangui | 4.75 | Agriculture, Forestry, Mining |
| Chad | N’Djamena | 16.43 | Oil, Agriculture, Livestock |
| Congo | Brazzaville | 5.32 | Oil, Timber |
| Democratic Republic of Congo | Kinshasa | 89.56 | Mining (Cobalt, Diamonds), Agriculture |
| Rwanda | Kigali | 12.63 | Agriculture, Services, Tourism |
Check out the different regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and the bunch of countries that make this lively continent. For more nuggets of wisdom on other countries, peek at our articles on the list of apec countries and the list of countries by happiness.
Countries in Eastern Africa
Journeying through Eastern Africa is like diving into a vibrant kaleidoscope of culture, history, and landscapes that never ceases to amaze. Meet the nations of this captivating region – Comoros, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda (World Bank).
Comoros
Tucked in the Indian Ocean, Comoros is a charming island nation made up of three main islands and a sprinkle of smaller islets. Its culture is a delightful blend of African, Arab, and French influences – a true melting pot of traditions.
Eritrea
Find Eritrea parked in the Horn of Africa, next door to Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. Boasting a long stretch along the Red Sea, Eritrea is a treasure trove of archaeology and cultural quirks that are like no other.
Ethiopia
Cradle of civilization and coffee lover’s paradise, Ethiopia’s both ancient and fresh. With its rugged landscapes, spots oozing history, and a unique java culture, this Horn of Africa country never fails to stir curiosity.
Kenya
Ah, Kenya. Where savannahs stretch wide, mountains stand tall, and coastal beauty beckons. A safari favorite, it’s renowned worldwide for wildlife spectacles in its national parks like the famous Maasai Mara.
Madagascar
Drop down by the southeastern coast of Africa and you’ll find Madagascar, an island bursting with biological wonders. Plants and critters here don’t exist anywhere else, making it a playground for nature fans.
Mauritius
Mauritius basks in the Indian Ocean with its postcard-perfect beaches, shimmering lagoons, and vibrant reefs. Carrying a rich tapestry of cultures, its European, African, and Asian influences are a feast for the senses.
Seychelles
Dreamy beaches, coral havens, and lush reserves – Seychelles serves up island perfection. Honeymooners and nature aficionados find paradise among these Indian Ocean gems, each more stunning than the last.
Somalia
Set in the Horn of Africa, Somalia’s storied coastline stretches along the Indian Ocean. Despite its challenges, hope shines through with initiatives like Baxnaano, which give struggling households a helping hand (World Bank).
South Sudan
At the tender age of twelve, South Sudan stands as the world’s youngest nation. Rich with oil yet marked by challenges of its own, it navigates the complexities of peace and progress.
Sudan
Just north is Sudan, where deserts meet mountains and the mighty Nile flows. Its beauty lies in its diversity, yet growth has been stalled by lingering conflicts (World Bank).
Tanzania
Everyone’s heard of Tanzania’s wild side – its sprawling Serengeti National Park, teeming with the “big five” and crowned by the majestic Kilimanjaro. It’s a safari destination that feels straight out of a nature documentary.
Uganda
Known affectionately as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda unravels like a tapestry of stunning landscapes and wildlife spectacles. Its national parks brim with life, including the famous mountain gorillas.
Want to engross yourself in Eastern Africa’s charm? Head over to our east africa list of countries for the full scoop.
| Country | Capital | Population (millions) | GDP (Billions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comoros | Moroni | 0.87 | 1.2 |
| Eritrea | Asmara | 3.5 | 2.1 |
| Ethiopia | Addis Ababa | 118 | 96 |
| Kenya | Nairobi | 53 | 109 |
| Madagascar | Antananarivo | 28.5 | 13 |
| Mauritius | Port Louis | 1.3 | 14 |
| Seychelles | Victoria | 0.1 | 1.7 |
| Somalia | Mogadishu | 16 | 5.2 |
| South Sudan | Juba | 11 | 3.5 |
| Sudan | Khartoum | 44.9 | 58 |
| Tanzania | Dodoma | 61.5 | 65 |
| Uganda | Kampala | 45.7 | 37.6 |
Curious about oil production or which countries top the happiness charts? Browse our list of countries by oil production and list of countries by happiness to find out more!
Countries in Southern Africa
Southern Africa is brimming with fascinating countries, each with its distinct charm and history. Let’s take a closer look at these amazing nations bringing unique flavors to this vibrant part of the continent.
Botswana
Popular for its peaceful vibes and incredible wildlife, Botswana is a gem in the heart of Africa. The Kalahari Desert calls it home—offering adventure around every corner.
Eswatini (Formerly Swaziland)
Steeped in rich culture, Eswatini is a kingdom with a heart full of traditions. In 2018, it swapped out its old name for Eswatini, embracing new beginnings.
Lesotho
Tucked within the arms of South Africa, Lesotho is all about those sky-high mountains and the quiet charm of rural life. Its cool climate and highland scenery make it a unique enclave.
Malawi
With Lake Malawi enchanting visitors, this country warms hearts from the get-go. Nicknamed the “Warm Heart of Africa,” you’ll find more smiles than you can count here.
Mozambique
A sun-soaked coastline and dreamy beaches—Mozambique serves it all. Spots like Tofo and the Quirimbas Archipelago turn vacations into endless paradises.
Namibia
On Namibia’s Atlantic fringe lies the Namib Desert, where wildlife thrives against a backdrop of Sossusvlei dunes. It’s a dramatic, raw environment with adventures galore in Etosha National Park.
South Africa
A mosaic of cultures and stunning landscapes, South Africa is captivating. With hotspots like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, it’s got the sights and the bustle.
Zambia
Zambia shares the magnificent Victoria Falls with its neighbor Zimbabwe. Packed with diverse wildlife and parks dotting the landscape, it’s a safari dreamland.
Zimbabwe
Home to not only parts of Victoria Falls but also rich history featuring ancient ruins like Great Zimbabwe. This place is a storyteller, and its tales won’t disappoint.
Feeling like exploring more countries? Don’t miss our other guides detailing nations of the USSR countries and the East Africa countries.
| Country | Capital |
|---|---|
| Botswana | Gaborone |
| Eswatini | Mbabane |
| Lesotho | Maseru |
| Malawi | Lilongwe |
| Mozambique | Maputo |
| Namibia | Windhoek |
| South Africa | Pretoria |
| Zambia | Lusaka |
| Zimbabwe | Harare |
For more curious minds looking for unique lists, dive into our articles on different setups like list of monarchies and list of countries by happiness.
Countries in Western Africa
Western Africa, packed with lively cultures and striking diversity, presents a rich tapestry of landscapes and traditions. Let’s take a closer peek at what makes each country in this corner of the globe stand out.
Benin
Benin flaunts a mesmerizing history and cultural heart. Nestled on Africa’s west coast, it’s a place where the past meets vibrant traditions.
Burkina Faso
This landlocked gem, Burkina Faso, is like a cultural kaleidoscope, surrounded by six distinct neighbors that add to its colorful character.
Cabo Verde
Floating in the central Atlantic, Cabo Verde—or Cape Verde, if you’re feeling fancy—celebrates a spicy mix of Creole Portuguese-African flair that dances under the island sun.
Cameroon
Cameroon straddles Central and West Africa, offering a smorgasbord of natural and ethnic variety that’s as wide as it is welcoming.
Cote d’Ivoire
“Cote d’Ivoire,” or Ivory Coast for the cocoa lovers, bustles with vibrant cities fortified by its sweet side—the delicious cocoa bean.
Equatorial Guinea
With a bit of mainland and a few islands, Equatorial Guinea’s wealth from oil makes it a heavyweight in Africa, despite its smaller size.
Gabon
Gabon hugs the West African coast with lush rainforests teeming with life, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
Gambia
Tiny but mighty, Gambia hugs its river’s edges with wildlife galore, making a big splash as Africa’s smallest mainland country.
Ghana
Ghana perches on the Gulf of Guinea with a wild tapestry of wildlife, historical forts, and sun-kissed beaches waiting to be discovered.
Guinea
Perched along Africa’s west coast, Guinea is a treasure trove of minerals, especially its bauxite, the enchanting mineral of riches.
Guinea-Bissau
On the Atlantic coast, Guinea-Bissau invites you into its world of parks and wildlife, where nature writes its own adventurous script.
Liberia
Standing proud, Liberia is Africa’s oldest republic, a homecoming landmark for freed American and Caribbean slaves.
Mali
Mali cradles ancient mysteries within its lands, like the enigmatic city of Timbuktu calling out from history’s pages.
Mauritania
Mauritania stretches across the West African desert, painting a picture of shifting sands and whispered winds.
Niger
Landlocked in West Africa, Niger’s arid climate shapes stark desert landscapes, telling tales of endurance under the sun.
Nigeria
Pulsing with life, Nigeria stands as Africa’s giant, full of rich cultures and economic powerhouses that shout their presence loud.
Sao Tome and Principe
Nestled in the Gulf of Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe is a verdant island duo known for abundant wildlife and cocoa that sings sweetly to the soul.
Senegal
Senegal’s western shores boast a lively mix of its French influences basking in the glow of vibrant cultures.
Sierra Leone
In West Africa, Sierra Leone catches eyes with its satin-like white beaches and tales of historic journeys.
Togo
Togo is a sliver of golden beaches and village views, nestled in West Africa with effortless charm.
Table of Key Metrics for Western Africa Countries
| Country | Population (millions) | Capital City |
|---|---|---|
| Benin | 12 | Porto-Novo |
| Burkina Faso | 21 | Ouagadougou |
| Cabo Verde | 0.5 | Praia |
| Cameroon | 27 | Yaoundé |
| Cote d’Ivoire | 26 | Yamoussoukro |
| Equatorial Guinea | 1.4 | Malabo |
| Gabon | 2.2 | Libreville |
| Gambia | 2.4 | Banjul |
| Ghana | 31 | Accra |
| Guinea | 13 | Conakry |
| Guinea-Bissau | 2 | Bissau |
| Liberia | 5 | Monrovia |
| Mali | 20 | Bamako |
| Mauritania | 4 | Nouakchott |
| Niger | 24 | Niamey |
| Nigeria | 206 | Abuja |
| Sao Tome and Principe | 0.2 | São Tomé |
| Senegal | 16 | Dakar |
| Sierra Leone | 8 | Freetown |
| Togo | 8 | Lomé |
Craving more insights? Wander through our list of countries by happiness and see who’s smiling brightest, or explore our list of countries by oil production for a peek into the oil-rich landscapes.