In a departure from the norm, several African countries have adopted an unusual arrangement where they have multiple capital cities, each serving a distinct purpose. This rare setup is not unique to Africa, but the continent boasts some striking examples, with countries like South Africa, Eswatini, Côte d'Ivoire, and Benin leading the way.

This arrangement often reflects efforts to balance regional power, ease administrative functions, or honor cultural heritage. In South Africa, for instance, the country has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, each serving a distinct branch of state power. Pretoria functions as the administrative capital, hosting the executive branch, including the President's office, government ministries, and most foreign embassies. Cape Town serves as the legislative capital, where the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces—the country's parliament—are located. Bloemfontein is recognized as the judicial capital, housing the Supreme Court of Appeal, South Africa's second-highest court.

Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, has two capitals. Mbabane functions as the administrative capital, where the government and ministries are located. Meanwhile, Lobamba serves as the legislative and royal capital, housing the national parliament and the Ludzidzini Royal Village, the royal family's residence. This setup allows for a balance of power between the monarch and the government.

In Côte d'Ivoire, the country maintains a dual-capital structure. Yamoussoukro is the official political capital, a title it gained in 1983 when President Félix Houphouët-Boigny moved the capital to his birthplace. However, Abidjan, the former capital, remains the de facto capital and economic powerhouse. It houses most government offices, foreign embassies, and business headquarters, making it the real hub of political and administrative activity.

Benin's capital arrangement is a practical division between political and economic power. Porto-Novo is the official capital and home to the national legislature. However, the seat of government and most ministries are in Cotonou, the country's largest city and economic center. Cotonou also hosts foreign embassies, the presidential palace, and Benin's major port, making it the real hub of political and administrative activity.

This unusual arrangement may seem complex, but it has its advantages. By distributing power across multiple cities, these countries can promote regional development, reduce congestion, and increase efficiency. It also allows for a more balanced distribution of resources and opportunities, which can have a positive impact on the economy and the population.

As Africa continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see if more countries adopt this unique arrangement. With its potential benefits and flexibility, it may become a model for other countries to follow.

Source: Business Insider Africa