From Xyza News for Kids
Each state and country has a capital city, considered the most important city and one where the central government and administrative offices exist. But did you know that these capitals can change locations? In fact, until 1910, California and Alabama changed capital cities four times!
When it comes to countries though, changing the capital location could mean significantly more than merely moving government buildings. Nigeria’s capital moved from Lagos to Abuja in 1991 because the government was looking for a more central location with better security and newer infrastructures. Egypt is currently building a new city to replace Cairo as its capital in order to better manage the growing population and traffic-packed streets.
Indonesia is also considering moving its capital from Jakarta. While overpopulation is also a determining factor, Jakarta has a much more unique problem as well: It’s sinking. That’s right—parts of the capital city have dropped almost twenty-five centimeters (that’s about ten inches) every year as a giant seawall, once intended to protect the city, began sinking itself. The proposal to move is not new; past leaders have long pushed for a different capital city. Only recently though has the discussion gained momentum as Jakarta reels from many storms and is unable to cope with flooding issues. President Joko Widodo has a tough battle ahead—not everyone agrees that moving the capital city is the right solution. Plus, many ask if the next capital city might struggle with overpopulation and environmental issues as well.
What do you think? Should countries move their capitals when faced with challenges?
