Overview of Guinea

Profile

Guinea boasts the world's largest bauxite reserves, with minerals like gold and iron ore forming economic pillars. Diverse natural environments range from tropical monsoon to savanna climates, with the Fouta Djallon Plateau serving as the water source for major West African rivers. Most of the population are Muslim, with French as the official language. Major ethnic groups include Fulani, Malinke, and Susu. Agriculture centers on subsistence rice and cassava cultivation, though food import dependency remains high. Recent years have seen infrastructure development and mining expansion, while politics operate under a transitional military regime following a coup, with civilian transition an international concern.

Official name: Republic of Guinea
Common name: Guinea
Numeric code: 324
Alpha-3 code: GIN
Alpha-2 code: GN
Population: Approximately 14 million (2023)
Population density: About 55 people/km²
Primary languages: French, Pular, Maninka, Susu
Major religions: Islam, Christianity, Traditional religions
National anthem: Liberté (Liberty)
Calling code: +224
Internet TLD: .gn

History

Gained independence from France in 1958. Since independence, experienced multiple coups and political upheavals.

Immediately post-independence, first President Sékou Touré adopted one-party dictatorship and socialist policies, leading to economic stagnation and emigration. Lansana Conté seized power in 1984 coup, introducing market economy. Another military coup occurred in 2008, followed by civilian Alpha Condé assuming presidency in 2010 after transitional government. In September 2021, Condé's regime collapsed in a special forces coup, with Colonel Mamady Doumbouya becoming transitional president. Following ECOWAS negotiations, a 24-month roadmap to civilian rule was established.

Geography & climate

Diverse terrain from coastal mangrove plains to Fouta Djallon Plateau to Forest Guinea tropical rainforest, called West Africa's "water tower".

Mix of tropical monsoon and savanna climates

Area: Africa / 245857 km²
Capital: Conakry
Largest city: Conakry
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire

Natural resources

Bauxite, Gold, Diamonds, Iron ore, Manganese, Potential uranium deposits, Hydropower, Forests, Abundant river water resources, Fertile laterite soil, Shea nuts, Fishery resources

Politics

Government: Republic under transitional military regime (preparing for civilian transition)

Economy

Currency: Guinean Franc (GNF)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 21.65 billion USD (2022)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 55.0 billion USD (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: French, Pular, Maninka, Susu

Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Fulani, Malinke, Susu, Kissi, Toma, Baga, Guerze, Koniagi

Life expectancy

About 61 years

Literacy rate

About 30%

National sports

Soccer, Wrestling (Lamba), Basketball, Athletics, Road cycling