The Zouérat Islamic Federation is a loose confederation of diverse countries that adhere to the Islamic faith. The flag of the federation is a simple star and crescent (the universal symbols of Islam) with a black background. The first country we will be visiting is Gharbiyya which is located on the western coast of Africa, south of Morocco and north of Mauritania. Gharbiyya was annexed by the French in the late 19th century and formed part of French West Africa from 1920. Independence was gained in 1960 but many French influences remain such as language, religion, and architecture. Gharbiyya General Information Flag Official Name: Islamic Republic of Gharbiyya Short Name: Gharbiyya Demonym: Gharbiyyan Capital: Lagouira Largest city: Lagouira Currency: Zouérat Dirham Official Languages: Arabic, French Demographics: Arab-Berber (96%), European (2%), Other (2%) Religion: Sunni Islam (98%), Christianity (2%) Internet TLD: .ig Total Population: 4,000,000 Life expectancy: Men - 65, Women - 68 Literacy rate: 95% Climate Gharbiyya has a mediterranean climate along the coast, although temperatures are higher due to the effects of the vast Sahara desert that makes up the interior of the country. Rainfall is rare, particularly in the arid desert. Politics Gharbiyya is a relatively peaceful country after overcoming instability in the first few decades after independence from France. Membership of the Zouérat Islamic Federation has lead to political stability despite the one party democracy that exists currently as this membership has lead to a big increase in the standard of living. The first Gharbiyyan city we will be visiting is the capital and largest city, Lagouira. A preview of what is to come: