Of the participating African countries, South Africa has the highest adult literacy rate, at 88%. The lowest is that of Ivory Coast, at 48.7%. (The Economist Pocket World in Figures 2010)

This week’s theme: African teams in the World Cup

Related facts:

• Young nations In 2009, the median age in Algeria was 25.8, the highest...
• Connected? Of the participating African nations, Nigeria has the highest internet penetration...
• Powerful nation On average, each South African uses almost 5,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity...
• Watch your head Of the quarter final nations, South Africa has the lowest average...
• Big families = Soccer families? South Africa’s fertility rate (births per woman) is 2.54. Nigeria’s, Cameroon’s,...