This country is Africa’s only Spanish-speaking country. Most of this country lies on the African mainland (Río Muni), but its capital sits on an island 50 miles away. This country has recently found oil off its coast and its economy is booming compared to before. This country is Equatorial Guinea.
Geography
Equatorial Guinea’s about the size of Maryland. It’s climate is tropical and temperatures usually stay in the 80s and 90s most of the year. Equatorial Guinea’s mainland terrain is mainly flat coastal plains similar to the ones found along the American east coast. The terrain on its 5 islands is mainly volcanic rock. Malabo is Equatorial Guinea’s capital and it’s located on Equatorial Guinea’s largest island, Bioko.
Economy
The exploitation of large oil and gas reserves in Equatorial Guinea has contributed to dramatic economic growth in the past. Unfortunately, Equatorial Guinea’s government has been considered corrupt because of its misuse of oil revenues in the previous years. Because of this, the government is currently focusing their attention on soliciting foreign investment. Subsistence farming continues to be the dominant form of livelihood among Equatorial Guinea’s people. As a result, the country’s GDP per capita remains moderate at $25,700. Equatorial Guinea’s monetary unit is the Central African Franc.
History
There were originally two African Pygmy tribes that settled in Equatorial Guinea’s lands between the 17th and 19th centuries. The tribe that colonized Equatorial Guinea’s volcanic islands was called the Bubi Tribe. The tribe that colonized Equatorial Guinea’s mainland (Río Muni) was called the called the Fang Tribe. These tribes were eventually converted to Christianity by the Spanish after Spain was rewarded the country in the Treaty of Paris in 1900. The spanish ruled Equatorial Guinea until 1968, when the country gained its independence. Today, Equatorial Guinea’s primary language remains Spanish.
Fun Facts
1. The most ideal time to visit Equatorial Guinea is during the dry months between December and February.
2. The highest point in Equatorial Guinea is at the Pico Basile mountain summit at 9,878 feet.
3. The Africa Cup of Nations was hosted by Equatorial Guinea in 2012. It's Africa's largest sporting event.
3. The Africa Cup of Nations was hosted by Equatorial Guinea in 2012. It's Africa's largest sporting event.
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| The Bubi People Equatorial Guinea |
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| Map of Equatorial Guinea |
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| The Fang People of Equatorial Guinea |
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| Equatorial Guinea's Flag |
As i read this article, i fully develop a thirst to explore the depths of Equatorial Guinea. My jaw drops with fascination of such an unknown country in Africa. I found it interesting the history of this country and i liked the fun facts like the African Cup of Nations is played here. I didn't know it was a real thing. I hope to discover new countries as i continue to read. By Daniel Ajabshir
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy visiting your blog and learning about a new country each week. I haven't ever heard of Equatorial Guinea before, but now I feel like I know everything about it. The pictures you included gave me a lot of information about the location and the people who live there. Keep up the great writing.
ReplyDeleteThe pictures in your blog were marvelous and interesting I did not know of the country before and am now enlightened. Other than oil trade, do they have another economic strength? Great blog once again. Keep on going!
ReplyDeleteThis blog has a lot of information, and that's why I enjoy reading this blog so much. I like the pictures and the different type of information it includes. However, I will like it more if it included places that are a little bit more intreating and interesting.
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