Equatorial Guinea is located on the west coast of Central Africa, bordered by Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the south and east. It consists of a mainland region called Río Muni and several islands, including Bioko (home to the capital city, Malabo), Annobón, and Corisco. Its geographic coordinates range from approximately 1.5° N to 3.5° N latitude and 5° E to 11° E longitude.

• How to Source from Made-in-China.com

Geography

Climate:

Equatorial Guinea has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two main seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Rainfall is abundant, particularly in the coastal regions and on Bioko Island, leading to lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems.

Fauna:

Equatorial Guinea is renowned for its rich biodiversity, with dense rainforests teeming with unique flora and fauna. The country is home to a variety of wildlife, including primates such as chimpanzees and gorillas, as well as rare bird species like the grey parrot and the African grey hornbill. The coastal waters are inhabited by diverse marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

Longest Rivers:

The main rivers in Equatorial Guinea are relatively short but play a vital role in the country’s ecosystem. The Muni River flows through the mainland region of Río Muni, while the Benito River traverses Bioko Island. These rivers provide freshwater sources for local communities and support a variety of aquatic life.

Highest Mountains:

Equatorial Guinea is characterized by rugged terrain and volcanic activity, but it does not have any significant mountain ranges. The highest point in the country is Pico Basile, located on Bioko Island, with an elevation of approximately 3,011 meters (9,879 feet) above sea level. The volcanic peak offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.

History

Prehistory:

The territory of present-day Equatorial Guinea has been inhabited for thousands of years by various indigenous peoples, including the Bubi on Bioko Island and the Fang on the mainland. These communities engaged in agriculture, fishing, and trade with neighboring societies.

Colonial Era:

Equatorial Guinea was colonized by European powers in the late 19th century, with Spain establishing control over the region. The Spanish colonial administration exploited the country’s natural resources, particularly cocoa and coffee, using forced labor practices that resulted in widespread suffering and abuse among the indigenous population.

Independence and Modern Age:

Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain in 1968, becoming the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. However, political instability and authoritarian rule characterized much of the country’s early post-independence period. The regime of President Francisco Macías Nguema, in particular, was marked by human rights abuses, political repression, and economic mismanagement.

Recent Developments:

In 1979, Macías Nguema was overthrown in a military coup led by his nephew, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has remained in power ever since. Despite ongoing concerns about political freedom and human rights, Equatorial Guinea has experienced significant economic growth in recent decades, driven by its oil and gas reserves.

Demographics

Equatorial Guinea has a population of approximately 1.4 million people, making it one of the least populous countries in Africa. The majority of the population belongs to the Fang ethnic group, with other ethnic groups including the Bubi, Ndowe, and Annobonese. Spanish is the official language, reflecting the country’s colonial heritage, although indigenous languages such as Fang and Bubi are also spoken.

Ethnicity and Language:

The Fang ethnic group is the largest in Equatorial Guinea, comprising over 80% of the population. The Bubi people are the predominant ethnic group on Bioko Island, while the Ndowe are concentrated in the coastal regions. Spanish is the official language and is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and government institutions.

Religion:

The majority of the population in Equatorial Guinea practices Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the dominant denomination. Traditional African religions also have a significant presence, particularly among rural communities, where ancestral worship and spiritual beliefs remain strong.

Education:

Education in Equatorial Guinea is provided by both public and private institutions at all levels, from primary school to university. Primary education is free and compulsory for children ages 6 to 12, although access to quality education remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas. The country is home to several universities, including the National University of Equatorial Guinea and the Universidad Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial.

Administrative Divisions

Equatorial Guinea is divided into two regions: Río Muni on the mainland and the insular region consisting of Bioko Island, Annobón Island, and several smaller islands. The country is further divided into provinces and districts, each with its own administrative structure.

Río Muni:

1. Wele-Nzas Province
2. Centro Sur Province
3. Kie-Ntem Province
4. Litoral Province
5. Kié-Ntem Province
6. Centro Sur Province

Bioko Island:

1. Bioko Norte Province
2. Bioko Sur Province

Annobón Island:

1. Annobón Province

10 Largest Cities by Population

The largest cities in Equatorial Guinea by population include:

1. Malabo (on Bioko Island) – Population: 297,000
2. Bata (on the mainland) – Population: 250,000
3. Ebebiyín – Population: 90,000
4. Aconibe – Population: 30,000
5. Luba – Population: 20,000
6. Mongomo – Population: 15,000
7. Evinayong – Population: 10,000
8. Micomeseng – Population: 8,000
9. Anisoc – Population: 5,000
10. Rebola – Population: 3,000

Education Systems

Education in Equatorial Guinea is provided by both public and private institutions at all levels, from primary school to university. Primary education is free and compulsory for children ages 6 to 12, although access to quality education remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas. The country is home to several universities, including the National University of Equatorial Guinea and the Universidad Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial.

Transportation

Airports:

Equatorial Guinea is served by several airports, with the main international airports located in Malabo on Bioko Island and Bata on the mainland. Other airports include Mongomeyen Airport and Annobón Airport.

Ports:

The major ports in Equatorial Guinea include the Port of Malabo on Bioko Island and the Port of Bata on the mainland. These ports serve as vital hubs for maritime trade and transportation, facilitating the import and export of goods to and from the country.

Country Facts

• Population: 1.4 million
• Capital: Malabo
• Official Language: Spanish
• Religion: Christianity (predominantly Roman Catholicism)
• Ethnic Groups: Fang, Bubi, Ndowe
• Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
• ISO Country Code: GQ
• International Calling Code: +240
• Top-Level Domain: .gq