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10 Countries With Multiple Capital Cities

Published

3 months ago

May 3, 2025

While most countries have just one capital city, a few around the world take a different approach, splitting national duties across two or even three capital cities.

Whether for historical, political, or logistical reasons, these nations have chosen to spread out their centers of power.

From South Africa’s trio of capitals to Bolivia’s high-altitude split, here are 10 countries that operate with more than one capital city—and why.

1. South Africa

South Africa is a pretty unique country. it has three capital cities instead of one like you would expect. South Africa has Pretoria; the administrative capital, Cape Town the legislative capital, and Bloemfontein the judicial capital. In layman words Pretoria handles the government’s day-to-day stuff, Cape Town is where laws get made, and Bloemfontein takes care of the courts. This setup spreads power out across the country and helps make sure different regions and groups have a say. Cape Town is super popular with tourists due to its beaches, epic mountain views, and loads of outdoor fun. Pretoria has its own fans too, especially when the jacaranda trees bloom in spring and turn the city purple. Then there’s Bloemfontein, the chill one of the three, with a more residential, laid-back, and all about the legal side of things.

2. Bolivia

Bolivia is a country with two capitals: La Paz and Sucre. This split came about in the 1800s because of differing political views about the country’s future. La Paz is the main capital for the government, where the executive and legislative branches are based. It’s the world’s highest capital, sitting at over 3,650 meters above sea level, in the Andes Mountains. Just next to it is El Alto, a city up in the highlands, where the towering Mt. Illimani looms at 6,438 meters. For a unique experience, you can take a ride on the Mi Teleférico cable car, which offers amazing views of the area. Sucre, located in southern Bolivia, is the country’s constitutional and judicial capital. It’s known for its historical Casa de la Libertad, where Bolivia’s Declaration of Independence was signed in 1825. The city’s whitewashed buildings and stunning architecture are a big draw for tourists. The Plaza 25 de Mayo, Sucre’s main square, features the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, and nearby is the Museo Universitario Colonial Charcas, which showcases both religious artifacts and modern art.

3. Netherlands

This is a country known for its two capitals; Amsterdam and Hague. Amsterdam is known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere and famous party scene, is the official capital of the Netherlands. However, the country’s government is actually based in The Hague, which is home to the Dutch Legislature, cabinet, and Supreme Court. The Hague serves as the real political centre of the nation, where the Dutch monarchy resides and where the King delivers his annual throne speech. For centuries, The Hague has hosted the Dutch Parliament and government. Additionally, it is the location of important global institutions such as the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

4. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two capitals: Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Colombo is the country’s main city for government work and law, and it’s also the largest city and financial hub. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is where the Sri Lankan Parliament is located and is the legislative capital. Colombo is a lively city with colourful streets, busy life, beautiful beaches, and a popular nightlife. Because Colombo became too crowded over time, the national legislature moved to the nearby city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte leaving the nation with two capitals. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte was made the official capital in 1982, but Colombo remains a key city.

5. Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland)

Eswatini is a landlocked country in Southern Africa that has two capitals. Mbabane and Lobamba. Mbabane is the administrative capital, where most government offices are located. Mbabane was founded in 1902 by the British, who made it the capital of the colony. Lobamba is the second capital, where the royal family lives and the country’s Parliament meets. Lobamba is also the centre of traditional and political power in Eswatini, while Mbabane handles the day-to-day government functions.

6. Benin

Benin, a country in West Africa that has two capitals. Porto-Novo and Cotonou. Porto-Novo is the official capital and is located in the southeast near the Gulf of Guinea. It is where the National Assembly meets. However, most government offices and ministries are based in Cotonou, the country’s largest city. Cotonou is also a popular spot for tourists, known for its attractions and importance as the centre of government operations.

7. Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, has two key cities serving different national roles. Abidjan is the country’s largest city and economic powerhouse. Though not the official capital, it functions as the practical centre of government, housing most government offices, foreign embassies, and key institutions. Known for its lively culture, modern buildings, and busy markets, Abidjan plays a vital role in the country’s daily operations. Yamoussoukro, located in the centre of the country, is the official political and administrative capital. In 1983, President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who was born there, declared Yamoussoukro the new capital in an effort to promote development away from the coast. Despite this designation, many government functions and institutions remain in Abidjan due to its established infrastructure and global connections. Notably, Yamoussoukro is also home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, one of the largest churches in the world.

8. Malaysia

Malaysia has two key cities that share national functions: Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Kuala Lumpur, the official capital, is known for its vibrant nightlife, cultural diversity, and iconic landmarks. It houses the national legislature and the ceremonial residence of Malaysia’s monarch. As the country’s largest city, it also serves as the financial and commercial heart of the nation. To ease congestion and better manage administrative tasks, the government initiated the development of Putrajaya in 1995. Built around an artificial lake and located about 25 kilometres south of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya was designed as a modern, master-planned administrative centre. Today, it hosts most federal ministries, government agencies, and the Prime Minister’s official residence. It also serves as the judicial capital, home to the country’s highest courts. Putrajaya is a key part of Malaysia’s “Multimedia Super Corridor” (MSC), a high-tech development zone that includes major infrastructure like the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the nearby Petronas Twin Towers. While Putrajaya handles most government operations, Kuala Lumpur remains the official capital and continues to be the economic and cultural powerhouse of Malaysia.

9. Tanzania

Tanzania, located in East Africa, operates with two capitals: Dodoma and Dar es Salaam. Dodoma is the official capital, where the country’s main government buildings and the National Assembly are based. Although it was designated as the capital back in 1974, the full shift of government functions began much later, with Dodoma officially gaining capital status in 1996. The move aimed to place the capital in a more central location, making governance more accessible across the country. Despite this, Dar es Salaam continues to function as the de facto centre of government activity. It remains the largest city and economic powerhouse of Tanzania, home to key institutions such as Ikulu (the Presidential residence), several government ministries, foreign embassies, and international organizations. As a coastal city, Dar es Salaam also serves as the main port and commercial gateway, playing a critical role in trade and infrastructure. Today, while Dodoma handles legislative responsibilities and some administrative duties, Dar es Salaam continues to be the heart of Tanzania’s economy, diplomacy, and international affairs.

10. Chile

Chile has two main cities that serve different capital functions: Santiago and Valparaíso, which are located just about 72 miles (116 kilometres) apart. Santiago is the official capital and the largest city in the country. It serves as the main centre for political administration, finance, culture, and tourism, known for its busy urban life and modern architecture. In an effort to distribute political power more evenly across the country after the end of Augusto Pinochet’s military regime, Chile moved its National Congress to Valparaíso in 1990. This coastal city, known for its colourful hills, historic charm, and vibrant artistic scene, became the legislative capital. Today, Santiago remains the seat of the presidency and executive functions, while Valparaíso is where the Chilean Parliament meets, helping to decentralize governance and promote regional development.

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NAS Offers Free Medical Services To Over 800 Residents In Imo Community

Published

5 hours ago

August 3, 2025

Editor

National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has provided free medical services to more than 800 residents of the Orogwe community in the Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State as part of the association’s humanitarian service.

The medical mission, held at the National Primary Healthcare Centre, was part of the association’s 49th National Konverge and Annual General Meeting in Owerri.

The event offered diagnosis, treatment, and essential medications to hundreds of community members, many of whom had been unable to access healthcare due to financial hardship.

NAS Cap’n, Dr Joseph Oteri, said the initiative was part of the confraternity’s broader vision to support vulnerable communities and bring healthcare directly to those most in need.

“This programme targets those who ordinarily cannot afford basic healthcare, especially treatment for non-communicable diseases,” Oteri said.

“Today, we attended to a child with a serious condition. Thankfully, we had a paediatrician on the ground who stabilised her and referred her to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri. We’ve also identified a few cases that will require surgery, and we plan to support their hospital bills.”

He emphasised that NAS, formed in 1952 by seven young idealists including Imo-born Ralph Opara, has evolved into a formidable force for social advocacy, committed to humanitarian and civic interventions.

Dispelling common misconceptions about the association, Oteri said: “We are not a cult group. We exist to protect the downtrodden and drive positive societal change.”

The association’s Chief Programme Officer, Chief Bart Akelemor, echoed this commitment, stressing that the NAS legacy is one of access, equity, and community service.

“Our mission is to promote a just society where citizens can access resources such as healthcare, education, and employment,” Akelemor said.

“With Nigeria’s growing population and the acute shortage of doctors and functioning medical facilities in rural areas, bringing this medical outreach to Orogwe is both timely and necessary.”

According to him, 41 volunteer doctors, drawn from across Nigeria and the diaspora, participated in the programme, attending to hundreds of patients with ailments ranging from malaria and hypertension to vision and dental issues.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Chizoba Igwe, who received treatment for malaria, described the initiative as a “life-saving intervention.”

“With the way things are in the country now, I couldn’t afford hospital bills or medication,” she said.

“This free treatment is a big relief. Many people here share the same feeling.”

Another resident, Mrs Mmesoma Njoku, received medicated glasses after undergoing an eye test.

“I’ve been struggling with my sight for a while, but couldn’t go to the hospital because of money. Today, I not only got tested, but they gave me glasses that now help me read tiny print. I am truly grateful,” she said.

NAS Medical Pyrate, Dr Chiazor Odoemene, confirmed that over 800 residents were treated during the outreach, with critical cases referred to public hospitals for further management.

Beyond healthcare, the association also launched an arts exhibition aimed at promoting awareness around good governance, security, poverty alleviation, and Nigeria’s path to a more prosperous future.

The medical outreach has been lauded as a meaningful complement to the efforts of the Imo State Government in improving healthcare access and delivery, particularly in underserved areas.

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2027: Otuaro Urges N’Delta Youth To Resist Politicians’ Ploy To Destabilise Region

Published

6 hours ago

August 3, 2025

Editor

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has warned ex-agitators in the Niger Delta to resist being manipulated by desperate politicians plotting to destabilise peace in the Niger Delta, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of a three-day strategic Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Mediation training organised by the PAP in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja, Otuaro expressed concern over the recent rise in politically-charged rhetoric and some politicians’ coordinated attempt to pit ex-agitators and beneficiaries of the programme against the Federal Government.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Igoniko Oduma, on Sunday, he added that such moves were “reckless and unnecessary,” especially in light of President Bola Tinubu’s demonstrable commitment to the region.

“There is no basis for anyone to cause destabilisation. We can all see the commitment of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Ex-agitators and beneficiaries in general should not be deceived and distracted by some politicians,” Otuaro told the ex-agitators and stakeholders.

He cautioned that any calls for confrontation or disaffection at this time were “not only misplaced but also harmful to the gains we have recorded,” urging stakeholders to focus on peace, stability, and progress in the region.

According to Otuaro, the Tinubu administration has backed its support with tangible action.

“Be assured that nobody will do it better than President Tinubu. As Niger Delta people, we have to thank the President for his genuine love for the Presidential Amnesty Programme and our region as a whole.

“The President has expanded the budget of the programme, allowing us to reach more beneficiaries and strengthen our reintegration and rehabilitation initiatives,” he stated.

He also pointed out that the inclusion of Niger Delta citizens in key federal positions was further evidence of Tinubu’s goodwill.

“Furthermore, Niger Deltans have been appointed to strategic positions in key ministries and agencies. This level of inclusion is unprecedented and deserves acknowledgement. All we need to do is to be united for the President,” Otuaro declared.

The PAP boss, who presented certificates to participants of the training and later hosted them at a reception at the PAP headquarters, reiterated his commitment to sustaining peace and building human capital in the region.

He further called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to keep sensitising the youth to reject political manipulation, stating that “Lasting progress can only be achieved through cooperation, not conflict.”

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Afenifere Hails UN For Declaring July 7 World Amotekun Day

Published

7 hours ago

August 3, 2025

Editor

The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, on Sunday, commended the United Nations following its declaration of July 7 of every year as “World Amotekun Day.”

Afenifere’s position was contained in a statement released by its national publicity secretary, Jare Ajayi, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

It would be recalled that Amotekun’s formal recognition by the UN was made public last week by the President of the World Peace, Ambassador Peer Stafsen, while presenting the certificate of affiliation to the Commandant of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, in Akure, the state capital.

Represented by the Director of Information and Communications of the association, Ambassador Markwili Mgbara, Stafsen said the recognition was due to the activities of Amotekun corps in “promoting safety and protecting lives and property across Nigeria’s South-West region.”

The affiliation certificate was issued under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council and the International Association of World Peace Advocacy.

Afenifere’s statement said the recognition of Amotekun by the UN was unprecedented in this part of the globe.

“Amotekun’s invitation to attend meetings of the body’s affiliates on security and human rights is a big morale booster.

“It is also a testament that those who brought it about and have been sustaining it were exemplary, as further attested to by some states in Nigeria who have shown interest in replicating the concept in their respective areas.

“The World Peace is part of the global body, the UN. Ondo State is significant on the issue of Amotekun as its former Governor, late Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), was pivotal in the establishment of the corps.

“With this recognition, the South-West Security Network (Amotekun) will now be officially attending the United Nations’ annual general meeting starting with the one coming up in New York, United States of America, on September 22, 2025, which will mark the 80th anniversary of the global body,” the statement partly read.

Afenifere said the certification of the security outfit confirmed the affiliation of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps as a trained security unit recognised by the UN.

Ajayi also lauded the late former Governor Akeredolu, who, along with his fellow governors in the South-West, then were steadfast in ensuring that the security outfit took off and was sustained, in spite of the obstacles placed on its ways in various guises.

“Amotekun was launched on January 9, 2020, in Ibadan, Oyo State, by the governors of the South West, i.e. Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo States.

“The establishment of the security outfit emanated from the regional security summit that took place in Ibadan in June 2019 under the auspices of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission,” Ajayi stated.

Afenifere’s spokesperson submitted that the formal invitation to attend annual security meeting is a clear indication that the establishment of the outfit was a very good step to take.

He recalled that Amotekun, in its early formation, faced a lot of avoidable challenges, especially from the Federal Government then led by the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ajayi praised the governors in the region for not succumbing to intimidation then.

In his words, “Their not succumbing to intimidation has helped greatly in checking crimes in the region and in reducing the menace of armed bandits, including unscrupulous Fulani herders who are making going to farms perilous.”

The national publicity secretary then called on the governments of the southwestern states to leverage on the latest international recognition.

“We seize this opportunity to also call for an expeditious action on the establishment of state police and the provision of all that is needed to ensure that crime and banditry are reduced to the barest minimum,” he added.