Central African Republic

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Complete guide: Africa

Updated: September 21, 2026

🇨🇫 Central African Republic

Capital: Bangui

Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic

Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic

Bangui is the capital and largest city of the Central African Republic. It stands on the northern bank of the Ubangi River in the southwest of the country, directly across the river from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The modern city was established as a French post in 1889 and later became an administrative center of the colonial territory of Ubangi-Shari. Today, Bangui contains the country’s main government institutions and is an important center for commerce, education and river transport.

📜 Timeline of Bangui

1889: Bangui is established as a French post on the Ubangi River.

1910: Ubangi-Shari becomes part of French Equatorial Africa, with Bangui serving as an important administrative center.

1960: The Central African Republic gains independence from France on August 13, with Bangui remaining the national capital.

Today: Bangui is the country’s political and administrative center and its largest urban area.

📊 Quick Stats

Founded

1889

Official Languages

French, Sango

Currency

Central African CFA franc (XAF)

Location

Northern bank of the Ubangi River in southwestern Central African Republic

Time Zone

West Africa Time (WAT), UTC+1

Calling Code

+236

Driving Side

Right-hand traffic

🏛️ Notable Places

Notre-Dame de l’ImmaculĂ©e Conception Cathedral

The Roman Catholic cathedral of Bangui and the seat of the Archdiocese of Bangui.

Marché Central

Bangui’s central market is part of the city’s commercial district, with traders selling food, clothing, household goods and other everyday products.

Ubangi River

The river runs along the southern edge of Bangui and forms the international boundary with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The city of Zongo lies on the opposite bank.

Did you know? Archaeological surveys in and around Bangui have identified 26 Iron Age sites. The group of sites has been on the Central African Republic’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2006.

Bangui’s location on the Ubangi River has shaped the city since its establishment in the late 19th century. Its riverfront position, administrative institutions and connections with neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo remain central to the geography and daily life of the capital.

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