Algeria

The Gateway of North Africa and the Land of Desert and Diversity

Algeria, officially the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, is the largest country in Africa, bridging the Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert. Rich in natural gas, history, and cultural heritage, Algeria stands as a vital link between Africa, the Arab world, and the Mediterranean region.

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🏛️ Formation & Historical Background

Algeria’s history stretches from ancient Berber civilizations to modern independence movements, symbolizing endurance and identity.

Key Historical Timeline:

• c. 1000 BCE: Berber (Amazigh) kingdoms emerge

• 146 BCE: Becomes part of the Roman Empire (Numidia and Mauretania regions)

• 7th Century CE: Arab conquest introduces Islam and Arabic culture

• 16th Century: Incorporated into the Ottoman Empire

• 1830–1962: French colonization period (132 years)

• 1954–1962: Algerian War of Independence led by the FLN (National Liberation Front)

• 1962 (July 5): Gained independence from France

• Present: A republic balancing modernization with cultural preservation

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🧭 Basic National Information

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⚖️ Government and Leadership

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🗺️ Administrative Structure

Algeria is divided into 58 wilayas (provinces). Each wilaya is further subdivided into daïras (districts) and communes (municipalities).

List of 58 Provinces (Wilayas):

1. Adrar

2. Chlef

3. Laghouat

4. Oum El Bouaghi

5. Batna

6. Béjaïa

7. Biskra

8. Béchar

9. Blida

10. Bouira

11. Tamanrasset

12. Tébessa

13. Tlemcen

14. Tiaret

15. Tizi Ouzou

16. Algiers (Alger)

17. Djelfa

18. Jijel

19. Sétif

20. Saïda

21. Skikda

22. Sidi Bel Abbès

23. Annaba

24. Guelma

25. Constantine

26. Médéa

27. Mostaganem

28. M’Sila

29. Mascara

30. Ouargla

31. Oran

32. El Bayadh

33. Illizi

34. Bordj Bou Arréridj

35. Boumerdès

36. El Tarf

37. Tindouf

38. Tissemsilt

39. El Oued

40. Khenchela

41. Souk Ahras

42. Tipaza

43. Mila

44. Aïn Defla

45. Naâma

46. Aïn Témouchent

47. Ghardaïa

48. Relizane

49. Timimoun (new)

50. Bordj Badji Mokhtar (new)

51. Ouled Djellal (new)

52. Béni Abbès (new)

53. In Salah (new)

54. In Guezzam (new)

55. Touggourt (new)

56. Djanet (new)

57. El Meghaier (new)

58. El Menia (new)

Each wilaya is subdivided into districts (daïras) and communes, ensuring local administrative governance.

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Local Government Structure

• Each wilaya is headed by a Wāli (Governor) appointed by the President.

• Local governance includes People’s Provincial Assemblies (APW) and People’s Communal Assemblies (APC).

• Municipalities play a key role in delivering basic services and development planning.

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Leadership & Governance

• Algeria emphasizes centralized authority, but with elected local assemblies.

• Strategic priorities:

  • Economic diversification away from oil dependency

  • Political reform and anti-corruption

  • Youth empowerment and employment

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Law Enforcement & Safety

• Managed by:

  • DGSN (Police) – urban areas

  • Gendarmerie Nationale – rural and semi-urban zones

  • ANP (People’s National Army) – national defense

• Internal threats include:

  • Smuggling and terrorism in border regions

  • Cybercrime and political dissent management

• Emergency Numbers:

  • 17 – Police

  • 14 – Ambulance

  • 1021 – Civil Protection (Fire)

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🌐 Geography & Environment

• Location: North Africa, bordered by Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania, Western Sahara, and Morocco

• Coastline: ~1,600 km along the Mediterranean Sea

• Major Regions: Tell Atlas, Sahara Desert, Ahaggar Mountains

• Major Rivers: Chelif, Seybouse

• Climate: Mediterranean in the north, desert in the south

• Natural Resources: Oil, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates

• Environmental Focus: Desertification control, renewable energy, reforestation

The Sahara Desert covers over 80% of Algeria’s territory, making it a defining geographical feature of the nation.

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🕌 Religion, Language & Culture

Cultural Highlights:

• Architecture: Kasbah of Algiers, Ottoman palaces, Sahara forts

• Cuisine: Couscous, tajine, chorba, makrout, mint tea

• Dress: Burnous (cloak), haik (white veil), and traditional Amazigh jewelry

• Music: Raï (originating in Oran), Andalusian classical, Kabyle folk

• Festivals: Independence Day (July 5), Mawlid, Ramadan, and Yennayer (Berber New Year)

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📈 Economy & Key Sectors

Algeria’s economy is resource-driven, with energy exports forming the backbone of national income.

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🎓 Education & Healthcare

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✈️ Transport & Infrastructure

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🏞️ Tourism & Attractions

Despite being less commercialized, Algeria offers breathtaking natural and historical wonders.

Top Destinations:

• Algiers: Casbah (UNESCO site), Ketchaoua Mosque, Martyrs’ Memorial

• Tlemcen: Moorish architecture and waterfalls

• Constantine: “City of Bridges” built on cliffs

• Ghardaïa: UNESCO-listed M’zab Valley

• Tassili n’Ajjer National Park: Ancient rock art and desert formations

• Oran: Mediterranean port city, Raï music capital

• Hoggar Mountains: Scenic Sahara landscapes

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🌍 Global Role & Relations

Algeria is a key energy supplier to Europe and an influential voice in African diplomacy.

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📝 Summary

Algeria is a land of contrasts — where the Mediterranean meets the Sahara, and ancient Berber traditions meet modern urban growth. Its vast deserts, historical cities, and cultural fusion make it a symbol of endurance, pride, and North African identity.

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📢 News & Articles

• “Algeria’s Green Energy Ambition: Beyond Oil and Gas”

• “Casbah of Algiers: A Living UNESCO Heritage”

• “Sahara Tourism and Cultural Revival”

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🎯 Our Mission

This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, dedicated to documenting each nation’s heritage, governance, and modern journey for global understanding.

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📬 Contact Us

For factual updates, cultural contributions, or research collaborations on Algeria, contact our editorial team.