We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Culture

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Should I Know About Equatorial Guinea?

Nicole Madison
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,455
Share

The Republic of Equatorial Guinea is located in Central Africa. It is among the smallest countries on the continent, spanning just 10,828 square miles (28,051 kilometers). The country consists of more than one landmass, including Rio Muni, the island of Annobon, and the island of Bioko. Equatorial Guinea borders Cameroon, Gabon, and the Gulf of Guinea.

Equatorial Guinea was once a colony of Spain. At the time, it hailed by the name of Spanish Guinea. Interestingly, it stands out among other African countries as the only one that has Spanish as its official language. The country's motto is also Spanish and is Unidad, Paz, Justicia; in English, this motto means “Unity, Peace, Justice.” Spanish is not the only official language of Equatorial Guinea; French and Portuguese also have this status.

Equatorial Guinea’s government is considered a republic; it has not only a president, but also a prime minister. However, of the two, the president has the most power. In his position, he can make laws by decree, hire and fire cabinet members, and dismiss the Chamber of representatives. He can also negotiate and implement treaties with foreign governments and arrange for elections. The president also has an important role in making sure the country is able to defend itself; he serves as both the Commander in Chief of the country's armies and its Minister of Defense.

The prime minister of Equatorial Guinea obtains his position when appointed by the president. The president endows the prime minister with certain powers and responsibilities. It is his job to handle things that the president does not manage himself. As such, the prime minister is generally not afforded any or much real power in matters related to foreign policy or the country’s defense.

Most of the citizens of Equatorial Guinea are Bantu. A large portion of the Bantu hails from the Fang tribe. There are also several coastal tribes that make up around five percent of the population. A small number of Europeans also call Equatorial Guinea their home, as do a diminutive population of mulattoes. There is little Spanish presence, as most Spanish occupants left the country following its gain of independence in 1968.

For those interested in traveling to the country, rain is an important consideration. The country has a large number of dirt roads that become muddy and practically impassable at times. As such, it is suggested that visitors avoid the rainy season by traveling to the country between November and April.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Nicole Madison
By Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. Her passion for knowledge is evident in the well-researched and informative articles she authors. As a mother of four, Nicole balances work with quality family time activities such as reading, camping, and beach trips.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-should-i-know-about-equatorial-guinea.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.