Geography and Environment:
Where is Kiribati located?
Kiribati is scattered across the central Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and the International Date Line.
How many islands make up Kiribati?
Kiribati is comprised of 33 islands, divided into 3 groups: the Gilbert Islands, the Line Islands, and the Phoenix Islands.
What type of islands are most common in Kiribati?
The majority of Kiribati's islands are coral atolls, low-lying rings of coral surrounding a lagoon.
What is the highest point in Kiribati?
Banaba Island, once renowned for phosphate mining, boasts the highest point at 81 meters (266 feet).
How does climate change threaten Kiribati?
Rising sea levels and increased storm activity pose significant threats to the low-lying atolls of Kiribati.
Culture and People:
What is the official language of Kiribati?
Gilbertese and English are both official languages in Kiribati.
What is a traditional dance performed in Kiribati?
Bikirimati is a lively and playful dance performed by women, often using fans and grass skirts.
What is a staple food in Kiribati cuisine?
Breadfruit, taro, and fish are staples in the Kiribati diet, often cooked in coconut milk.
What is the national sport of Kiribati?
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Kiribati, played on sandy, makeshift fields.
What is a unique custom practiced in Kiribati?
Te Kiribati, meaning "dancing the Kiribati," is a cultural event where communities demonstrate their traditional dances and songs.
History and Government:
When did Kiribati gain independence?
Kiribati became independent from the United Kingdom in 1979.
What is the capital city of Kiribati?
Tarawa, located on South Tarawa atoll, is the capital city and most populous settlement in Kiribati.
Who is the current president of Kiribati?
Taneti Maamau has been the president of Kiribati since 2016.
What is a unique challenge faced by the Kiribati government?
Due to its low-lying geography, Kiribati is a vocal advocate for international action against climate change and rising sea levels.
What is the currency of Kiribati?
The Australian dollar is the official currency of Kiribati.
Flora and Fauna:
What is the national bird of Kiribati?
The frigatebird, with its impressive wingspan and distinctive throat pouch, is the national bird of Kiribati.
What is a unique marine animal found in Kiribati waters?
Turtles, including the endangered hawksbill turtle, nest on the beaches of Kiribati's islands.
What is a traditional fishing method used in Kiribati?
Kiribati fishermen utilize te bo, a basket trap woven from coconut leaves, to catch fish in lagoons and reefs.
What type of plants grow on the coral islands of Kiribati?
Coconut palms, pandanus trees, and other salt-tolerant vegetation thrive on the atolls of Kiribati.
What conservation efforts are underway in Kiribati?
Marine protected areas, reforestation projects, and community-based conservation initiatives are helping to protect Kiribati's unique environment.
Fun Facts:
Kiribati is home to the world's first time zone to see the new year?
Kiribati's Line Islands, including Kiritimati Island, are the first places on Earth to welcome the new year.
What unusual tradition takes place on Christmas Island in Kiribati?
On Christmas Island, crabs migrate during the wet season, and a crab-racing competition is held to celebrate the event.
What traditional material is used for handicrafts in Kiribati?
Black pearl oyster shells are used to create beautiful jewelry and crafts in Kiribati.