South Sudan
The world's newest country, facing challenges after independence from Sudan, with oil resources.
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 after decades of civil war.
South Africa
A diverse Southern African nation with multiple capitals, known for wildlife and post-apartheid development.
South Africa hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first in Africa.
Sierra Leone
A West African country recovering from civil war, known for diamonds and beautiful beaches.
Freetown, Sierra Leone's capital, was founded as a home for freed slaves.
Seychelles
An Indian Ocean archipelago known for luxury tourism, beautiful beaches, and conservation efforts.
The Seychelles has the smallest population of any African sovereign country.
São Tomé and Príncipe
A small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with Portuguese heritage and cocoa production.
São Tomé and Príncipe is Africa's second smallest country by population.