Algeria

SHORT INFORMATION

Medicine in Algeria

Health in Algeria, according to information from a March 6, 2006 United States report, does not compare well with the developed world. Algeria has inadequate numbers of physicians (one per 1,000 people) and hospital beds (2.1 per 1,000 people) and poor access to water (87 percent of the population) and sanitation (92 percent of the population).

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

Christmas in Algeria

"Santa Claus" came down to the streets of Tizi Ouzo, without asking permission, and here he is ... making the rounds gleefully in his carriage full of bells, attracting people who are weak in their faith and distributing "presents" to them.... All this happens without anyone saying anything or raising any objection, from the Ministry of Religious Affairs to the last of those authorities who are zealous for Islam.

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

New Year in Algeria

The Amazigh people of Algeria celebrated New Year 2598 on January 12th with traditional festivities, special food and parties reflecting their cultural heritage and ethnic pride. The annual event, known as "Yennayer", marks the beginning of the new farming year.