Managua, Nicaragua

Managua, the capital and largest city of Nicaragua, is situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Managua. As of 2025, the city's population is estimated at approximately 1,120,900, reflecting steady urban growth over recent decades. Managua serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country, with its metropolitan area encompassing a significant portion of Nicaragua's urban population. The city has experienced substantial development, yet it continues to face challenges related to infrastructure and service provision, particularly in rapidly expanding peripheral neighborhoods. Despite being the nation's capital, Managua grapples with persistent poverty and health issues. Approximately 30% of Nicaragua's population lives in poverty, with urban areas like Managua exhibiting significant disparities in income and access to services. Children and young people in the city's poorest neighborhoods are especially vulnerable, often lacking access to adequate nutrition, education, and healthcare. Health concerns in Managua include the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus, exacerbated by inadequate sanitation and public health infrastructure. While some hospitals in Managua offer emergency medical services, the overall healthcare system faces challenges, including limited resources and disparities in the quality of care.