The Central African Republic is divided into 17 prefectures, which serve as the primary administrative divisions of the country. These prefectures function as the first level of territorial administration in a two-tier system, with sub-prefectures comprising the second level. Each prefecture is headed by a prefect appointed by the central government, who acts as the state's representative and coordinates national policies at the regional level. Prefectures are responsible for implementing government programs, maintaining public order, collecting revenue, and delivering essential services such as education and healthcare within their territories. They serve as the crucial link between the central government in Bangui and local communities, facilitating administrative control and resource distribution across the country's diverse regions.