Equatorial Guinea

Geography

The Republic of Equatorial Guinea is located in Western Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Cameroon and Gabon. It is one of the smallest countries in continental Africa, and comprises of two main regions: a Continental Region (Río Muni) and an Insular Region (Bioko and Annobon), where the capital Malabo is situated. Included in Rio Muni are the small islands of Corisco, Elobey Grande, Elobey Chico, Mbañe, Cocoteros and the numerous small islets in Corisco Bay.

Map of Equatorial Guinea

History

What is now known as Bioko Island was discovered in 1471 by the Portuguese explorer and navigator, Fernando Poo. It was at intervals occupied by Portugal, England, Holland, and Spain until 1778, when the land was more permanently controlled by Spain. In 1827, a British naval base was established on the island. Late in the 1800’s, cocoa plantations were installed which became a large part of Equatorial Guinea's exports. Equatorial Guinea gained independence on October 12th, 1968.

Climate

The climate of both the continental region and the islands is typically equatorial, with high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and much cloud cover most of the year. Local variations are due to differences in altitude and proximity to the sea.

Equatorial Guinea Statistics

Population: 1,014,999 (July 2007 est.)

Population Growth Rate: ~2% per year

Life Expectancy: 55 years

Languages: Spanish 67% (official), 33% French, Fang, and Bubi, Ndowe, and Annobones

Country Area: 28,051 sq km (10,830 sq mi)

Currency: CFA (Communaute Financiere Africaine)

Main Trading Partners: U.S.A., Spain, France, China, Cameroon, Gabon and UK