The only country located in all four hemispheres
Story by Stars Insider
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The only country in all four hemispheres©Shutterstock
When people think of civilization, their minds often conjure images of cities and vast landscapes that form part of entire countries and territories. But one lesser-known nation goes against this convention: the Republic of Kiribati. This unique place stands as a testament to culture and what it takes to live while surrounded by the vast expanse of the ocean.
Intrigued? Click through this gallery and join us as we take a closer look at this cultural, environmental, and historical paradise.
Education©Shutterstock
Education in Kiribati is free and compulsory for children between the ages of six and 14. But while the primary school system is very well-attended, secondary and higher education faces challenges due to financial pressures.
Housing©Shutterstock
Traditional Kiribati housing (known as "buia" or “maneaba”) is typically constructed from locally sourced materials like pandanus leaves and wood, although modern concrete homes are becoming more common in urban areas.
Infrastructure©Shutterstock
The development of the nation’s overall infrastructure is ongoing, with efforts to improve roads, water supply, and sanitation. But these efforts have been made difficult by climate issues in recent years, particularly a major drought that hit the islands in 2022 and caused a state of emergency.
Biodiversity©Shutterstock
The country is home to diverse marine life, including various species of fish, corals, and sea birds. The Phoenix Islands Protected Area is made up of many atolls that contain thousands of unique species.
Transport©Shutterstock
Transportation between the islands is primarily by boat, with a few domestic flights connecting major atolls. South Tarawa has the only international airport in all of the atolls, named Bonriki International Airport.
Communication©Shutterstock
Due to the isolated location of the atolls and islands, internet and telecommunications services are very limited and expensive, particularly on outer islands. However, recent years have seen the rapid increase of mobile phone usage, thanks to satellite technology.
Religion©Shutterstock
Christianity is the predominant religion of the nation, with the largest denominations being made up of the Roman Catholic Church and the Kiribati Uniting Church. But despite these religious positions, traditional beliefs also influence cultural practices.
Renewable energy©Getty Images
As a way of addressing major environmental concerns, Kiribati is investing in renewable energy sources (such as solar power) to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, all of which are imported and have effects on the country’s economy and wildlife.
Tourism©Shutterstock
Kiribati’s tourism sector is steadily growing, thanks largely to its pristine beaches, world-class diving spots, and the unique cultural heritage of the islands.
Culture©Shutterstock
Kiribati culture is rich in traditions, with a strong emphasis on community, family, and respect for elders. Traditional dances, music, and crafts are also integral parts of daily life. In fact, much of the nation’s culture and endurance depends on the continuation of storytelling rather than entertainment.
Sports©Getty Images
Kiribati athletes participate in regional and international competitions, including the Pacific Games and the Olympics, with traditional sports like canoe racing also being popular locally. The most popular sport is soccer, and the country even has its own stadium that can hold 2,500 people.
Art©Shutterstock
Kiribati art includes intricate weaving, wood carving, and the creation of traditional clothing and accessories, which are often used in cultural ceremonies and daily life.
Migration©Shutterstock
Many people migrate from Kiribati for better opportunities, particularly to New Zealand and Australia. With their migration, they often send remittances back home, which support the local economy.
The future©Getty Images
Due to its location, Kiribati faces many significant environmental challenges, including coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, and the impacts of climate change, particularly with rising sea levels. Much of the country’s resources are spent on trying to maintain its unique cultural heritage in the face of globalization.
Sources: (FOCUS on Geography) (WorldAtlas) (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)