Overview of Equatorial Guinea

Profile

Located on the equator in the Gulf of Guinea with island and mainland territories, rich tropical rainforest and volcanic terrain. Since oil development in the 1990s, per capita GDP has become among Africa's highest, with rapid urban infrastructure development. However, wealth concentration and restrictions on political freedom have been criticized internationally. Influenced by former colonial power Spain, as well as Francophone and Lusophone cultures, forming a multilingual and multi-ethnic society.

Official name: Republic of Equatorial Guinea
Common name: Equatorial Guinea
Numeric code: 226
Alpha-3 code: GNQ
Alpha-2 code: GQ
Population: Approximately 1.7 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 48 people/km2
Primary languages: Spanish, French, Portuguese, Fang, Bube
Major religions: Christianity (Catholic majority), Traditional religions, Islam
National anthem: Caminemos pisando las sendas de nuestra inmensa felicidad
Calling code: +240
Internet TLD: .gq

History

Gained independence from Spain in 1968. The current President Obiang regime has ruled long-term since a 1979 coup that overthrew the post-independence dictatorship.

After Portuguese explorer discovery, colonized as Spanish Guinea in the 18th century. From a plantation economy of cacao, coffee, and timber, transformed into a resource nation through offshore oil field development in the 1990s. After initial President Macías's reign of terror and economic collapse post-independence, gradually returned to the international community under the 1979 Obiang regime. Recognized multi-party system in the 1991 constitution, but the ruling PDGE party dominance continues in practice.

Geography & climate

Comprises volcanic islands represented by Bioko and Annobón, and mainland Río Muni covered in tropical rainforest. Mangrove wetlands develop along coasts, with inland plateau hills and low mountains.

Tropical monsoon climate (short dry season and long rainy season)

Area: Africa / 28051 km²
Capital: Malabo
Largest city: Bata
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Cameroon, Gabon

Natural resources

Oil, Natural gas, Timber (okoumé), Gold, Bauxite, Diamonds (small-scale), Fishery resources, Fertile volcanic soil, Hydropower, Manganese ore

Politics

Government: Republic, presidential system

Economy

Currency: CFA Franc (Central Africa) (XAF)

GDP (nominal): 12.3 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 25.3 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Spanish, French, Portuguese, Fang, Bube

Time zone: West Africa Time (WAT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Fang, Bubi, Elobey, Annobón Mestizo, Fernandino, Ndumu, Ibo minorities

Life expectancy

Approximately 59 years (2022 estimate)

Literacy rate

Approximately 95% (2015 estimate)

National sports

Soccer, Basketball, Futsal, Athletics, Boxing