Nestled along the western coast of Africa, Guinea-Bissau is a country that often flies under the radar, yet it is rich in history, culture, and biodiversity.
With its vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and unique societal structures, Guinea-Bissau offers a treasure trove of fascinating facts that highlight its distinctiveness.
From its diverse ecosystems and the matriarchal society of the Bijagós Islands to its tumultuous history and colorful festivals, this small nation is a mosaic of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
History of Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau’s history includes its establishment as a province of the Mali Empire in the 13th century, later becoming the independent Empire of Kaabu.
Portuguese control began in the 1450s, culminating in full colonial rule by the early 20th century after violent pacification campaigns.
The country gained independence in 1974 following a protracted liberation war led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).
Political instability has persisted since, marked by coups and civil wars, particularly in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Guinea-Bissau;
1. Guinea-Bissau was once part of the kingdom of Kaabu, as well as part of the Mali Empire.
2. The country gained independence from Portugal in 1974 after a protracted liberation war led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).
3. Since independence, no president has ever completed their term without being overthrown.
4. In January 2009, military chief General Batista Tagme Wai was assassinated, and shortly after, President João Bernardo Vieira was killed in a revenge attack by the military.
5. Guinea-Bissau is a founding member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
6. Guinea-Bissau covers an area of 36,125 square kilometers and has an estimated population of 2,026,778.
7. The country borders Senegal to the north and Guinea to the southeast.
8. Guinea-Bissau is home to the Bijagós Archipelago, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve featuring abundant marine life.
9. The country is divided into eight regions and one autonomous sector, which are further subdivided into 37 sectors.
10. Bissau, the capital and largest city, is the most densely populated area of Guinea-Bissau.
11. Guinea-Bissau has a large youthful population, with a youth bulge of 48.5% and a median age of 18.7 years as of 2019.
12. The country is the 11th most densely populated in West Africa and the 25th most densely populated in Africa, with a population density of 0.68 people per hectare.
13. Guinea-Bissau is one of the world’s top five cashew producers.
14. Cashews are the country’s main export and source of foreign exchange, with about 85% of the population relying on cashew harvesting and sales for income.
15. The country also exports peanuts, frozen seafood, fish, palm kernels, and timber.
16. Guinea-Bissau has the world’s third-largest reserves of bauxite, which contribute to over 90% of the nation’s export revenue.
17. The GDP of Guinea-Bissau doubled from US$0.8 billion in 1990 to US$1.6 billion in 2019.
18. The civil war in 1998 devastated the economy, causing the real GDP to fall by 28%.
19. Rice is a staple food for coastal peoples in Guinea-Bissau, while millet is the staple for those in the interior.
20. The Bijagós Islands are run by a matriarchal society, where women are leaders in law, economy, spirituality, and marriage arrangements.
21. Gumbe is the most popular form of music in Guinea-Bissau, derived from the country’s folk singing tradition.
22. Independence Day, celebrated on September 24, is the major national holiday in Guinea-Bissau.
23. Carnival in Bissau, once a festival associated with Catholic Creole culture, has become a multi-ethnic celebration.
24. The official language of Guinea-Bissau is Portuguese, but only about 11-14% of the population speaks it.
25. The real language of Guinea-Bissau is a Portuguese-based creole, spoken by about 44% of the population.
26. Other African languages spoken in the country include Balanta, Fula, Mandjak, and more.
27. The Sporting Club Bissau is the biggest football club in Guinea-Bissau, based in the capital and enjoying a massive fan following.
28. Most people in Guinea-Bissau live on less than $2 each day, due to political instability, drug trafficking, and a lack of education and skills training.
29. Guinea-Bissau is home to the Bijagós Archipelago, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.
30. The archipelago features abundant marine flora and fauna, including sea turtles and sea hippopotamuses.
31. The country’s geography consists mostly of coastal plains, with the two major ecoregions of Guinean forest-savanna mosaic and Guinean mangroves.
32. The climate alternates between a rainy season and a dry harmattan season, typical of West Africa.
33. Guinea-Bissau is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including chimpanzees, pygmy hippopotamuses, and the vulnerable West African manatee.
34. The country’s forests are threatened by illegal logging and land clearing for agriculture.
35. Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
36. The country’s coastal regions are vulnerable to rising sea levels and erosion due to climate change.
37. Guinea-Bissau has a rich biodiversity, with over 8,000 species of plants and animals found within its borders.
38. The country is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Cantanhez National Park and the Orango National Park.
39. Guinea-Bissau is a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and has ratified several international environmental agreements.
40. The country faces challenges in managing its natural resources, including illegal fishing, poaching, and unsustainable agricultural practices.
41. Guinea-Bissau is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
42. The country has signed various international treaties and agreements, including the UN treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in 2018.
43. Guinea-Bissau relies on international aid and development assistance to support its economy and social programs.
44. The country has faced challenges in maintaining political stability and good governance, which has hindered its ability to attract foreign investment and aid.
45. Guinea-Bissau has been involved in regional efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, which have become major issues in the country.
46. The country has also participated in peacekeeping missions and regional security initiatives through ECOWAS and the UN.
47. Guinea-Bissau has sought to strengthen its ties with other Portuguese-speaking countries through its membership in the CPLP.
48. The country has also developed bilateral relations with various countries, including Brazil, Cuba, China, and the United States.
49. Guinea-Bissau faces challenges in meeting its international obligations and commitments due to its limited resources and capacity.
50. The country has been working to improve its image and reputation on the international stage, particularly in the areas of human rights and good governance.
51. Guinea-Bissau has participated in various international conferences and initiatives related to development, climate change, and global health.
52. The country has also sought to promote its cultural heritage and traditions on the international stage, including through the promotion of its music and cuisine.
53. Despite its challenges, Guinea-Bissau remains committed to working with the international community to address its development needs and promote peace and stability in the region.
Conclusion
Guinea-Bissau is a nation rich in history, culture, and biodiversity, yet it faces significant challenges in governance, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
From its roots in the ancient kingdoms of West Africa to its struggle for independence and ongoing political instability, the country’s journey is marked by resilience and a vibrant cultural heritage.
The nation’s reliance on agriculture, particularly cashew production, highlights both its economic potential and vulnerability to global market fluctuations.
Additionally, the unique social structures of communities, especially in the Bijagós Islands, showcase the diversity of its cultural practices and traditions.
Despite facing hurdles such as poverty, political unrest, and environmental threats, Guinea-Bissau’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development reflects a hopeful outlook for the future.
By leveraging its rich resources and cultural heritage, Guinea-Bissau can work towards a more stable and prosperous future, fostering both national pride and global partnerships.
The path ahead may be complex, but the spirit of its people and the beauty of its landscapes offer a promising foundation for growth and resilience.
