Geography

Kiribati is situated in the heart of the Pacific, with the majority of its islands lying within the Gilbert group, located north of the equator. The Phoenix Islands group, further to the east, and the Line Islands group, stretching eastward to the International Date Line, are also part of Kiribati. The islands are predominantly low-lying coral atolls, with elevations rarely exceeding a few meters above sea level. This makes Kiribati highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, particularly rising sea levels.

Population

Kiribati has a population of around 120,000 people, with the majority living on the island of Tarawa. The population is overwhelmingly I-Kiribati, with a small number of expatriates. Kiribati's population is growing, placing pressure on limited resources and infrastructure.

Culture

Kiribati has a rich and vibrant culture, heavily influenced by its traditional Polynesian roots. The arts are an important aspect of I-Kiribati life, with traditional dance, music, and crafts being prominent. The country's cultural heritage is also reflected in its language, Kiribati, which is closely related to other Polynesian languages.

Economy

Kiribati's economy is primarily based on fishing and subsistence agriculture. The country faces significant economic challenges, including limited resources, geographic isolation, and vulnerability to climate change. Tourism is a growing sector, but its development is limited by the country's remote location and limited infrastructure. Kiribati's economy is highly dependent on foreign aid, particularly from Australia and New Zealand.

History

The first inhabitants of Kiribati were Polynesian people who arrived around 3,000 years ago. European contact began in the 16th century, with the islands being visited by Spanish explorers. The Gilbert Islands were officially annexed by the United Kingdom in 1892. Kiribati gained independence from the UK in 1979.

Major Landmarks

Some of the major landmarks in Kiribati include:

• The Bairiki National Stadium, the country's main sporting venue located on Tarawa.
• The King George V Memorial Hospital, the main hospital in Kiribati, also located on Tarawa.
• The Gilbert Islands Central Church, an important religious landmark for the country.
• The Phoenix Islands Protected Area, a vast marine reserve which is home to a rich diversity of marine life.
• The Kiritimati Island, the largest island in the Line Islands and a popular destination for bird watchers.