Eastern Cape

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Eastern Cape Statistics

Capital Bisho
Languages Xhosa, Afrikaans, Zulu
Population 6 481 300
Percentage of total population 15,7 %
Area in kmē 169 580
Percentage of total area 13,9 %

 

This is the second largest province in South Africa. It has a diverse landscape that varies from a beautiful coastline to the lofty mountains of the southern regions of the Drakensberg. The Eastern Cape has the third largest population in the country. It also has a large number of educational facilities, which include 5 universities; 3 technikons; and 20 technical colleges. Even with these educational facilities the literacy rate is 10% lower than the national average.

The province does not have large mineral reserves, but has a great potential for agriculture and forestry. In the high rainfall regions of the Eastern Cape, the climate allows for the growing of exotic tree plantations. The main agricultural products come from fruit orchards; sheep farming; and dairy farming.  

The main industry of the Eastern Cape is the manufacturing of automobiles. The unemployment rate in the province is at alarming levels.

Designed and published by Narelle Otten, Grethe Scott, Bruce Thomas. Team 22897.

Last updated on: 27/08/1998