Plizio Visual Lab

Ouham Cotton Fields

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

The cotton fields of the Ouham region in the northwestern Central African Republic form the economic backbone of an area often referred to as the source of Central Africa's 'white gold.' Cotton is the most significant export commodity here and the primary source of income for tens of thousands of smallholder farmers. The Ouham Prefecture, centered around Bossangoa, provides well-suited climatic conditions and fertile soils for cultivating this demanding crop. The agricultural cycle defines the rhythm of village life, from sowing at the start of the rainy season to harvesting during the dry months. Processing frequently takes place in local ginning factories before the raw cotton is transported for the international market. Despite fluctuating global prices and logistical hurdles, the cotton sector remains vital for rural development and poverty reduction. These fields not only shape the physical landscape but also stand as a symbol of agricultural endurance and the economic aspirations of the people in Ouham.

Location: Central African Republic
Nearby: Bossangoa (54 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	30	31	30	29	27	26	25	25	26	26	26
Rain mm	1	6	44	73	123	140	220	245	215	144	21	1

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The cotton fields of the Ouham region in the Central African Republic stretch over fertile soils and are referred to as 'white gold'. Cotton production is deeply rooted here and provides income for thousands of families.

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Visiting

The cotton fields are visible from main roads between Bossangoa and Batangafo, especially during harvest time. Visitors can see the white cotton bolls in the fields, but access to plantations is usually only with local guides.

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Where to view it

A good viewpoint is the elevation near Bossangoa, from which the endless cotton fields can be surveyed. The road along the Ouham River also features wide views of the agricultural areas.

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Local products

Cotton is the main product, used as raw fiber for textiles and seeds for oil extraction. Local markets also sell traditional fabrics, cottonseed oil and handicrafts.

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Active season

The cotton harvest takes place in the dry season from November to February, when the bolls are ripe. During these months the villages are bustling and the ginning plants run at full capacity.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with the town of Bossangoa and the traditional weaving villages of the region. The Manovo-Gounda-St. Floris National Park also provides an impressive natural backdrop that can be paired with the agricultural tour.

Geography

Coordinates

7.00000, 17.50000

Facts

Cotton is one of the top three agricultural exports of the Central African Republic.
Bossangoa serves as the industrial hub for cotton ginning and processing.
The planting season coincides with the arrival of the Intertropical Convergence Zone.
Ouham is known as the breadbasket of the country due to its diverse crops.
Hand-picking ensures high fiber quality, which is valued on the world market.
Cotton production is managed by the Central African Cotton Development Company.