Happy TravellerWelcome to Kaga-Bandoro, a small but vibrant market town and capital of the Nana-Grébizi prefecture in the Central African Republic. Formerly known as Fort-Crampel and Crampel, this town has a rich history and has been renamed twice. Kaga-Bandoro is also the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kaga–Bandoro.
Kaga-Bandoro was established by Émile Gentil in March 1897 as a post. In the following year, the post was named Fort-Crampel. However, the town gained notoriety after two French colonial officials executed a deserter with dynamite on 14 July 1903 to celebrate Bastille Day and warn the locals not to rebel against the colonial government. This scandalous incident led to the Fort Crampel Affair. In 1961, Fort-Crampel was renamed Crampel and thirteen years later, in 1974, the town was renamed again to Kaga-Bandoro.
Despite its tumultuous past, Kaga-Bandoro remains a charming destination with a unique culture and welcoming locals. The town is situated in the tropical wet and dry climate zone (Aw) and boasts beautiful landscapes and a rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore the nearby wildlife reserves, such as the Bamingui-Bangoran National Park and the Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park, which are home to a variety of animal and plant species including elephants, lions, and rare bird species.
Kaga-Bandoro is also a great place to experience the local culture and traditions of the Central African Republic. Visitors can participate in traditional dance performances, try delicious local cuisine, and visit the local markets to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.
In summary, Kaga-Bandoro may be a small town, but it has a big heart and a rich history. From its beautiful landscapes to its unique culture, Kaga-Bandoro is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for an authentic Central African experience.
