The people of Equatorial Guinea are known as Equatorial Guineans or Equatoguineans, and their capital city is Malabo.
Fascinating Facts About Equatorial Guinea
A Unique Cultural Heritage
Equatorial Guinea stands out as the only African country where Spanish is an official language. This linguistic distinction stems from its historical ties with Spain, which granted the country independence on October 12, 1968.
While Spanish is the official language, the country’s cultural diversity is reflected in the 15 indigenous languages still spoken by its people.
Equatorial Guinea: A Nation of Contrasts
Despite its impressive per capita GDP, Equatorial Guinea is often misunderstood. Here are three key facts about this enigmatic country:
Wealthy, But Unequal
Equatorial Guinea has one of the highest per capita GDPs in Africa, thanks to its substantial oil reserves. However, this wealth does not necessarily translate to the average citizen. In fact, ordinary people struggle to make ends meet, and the distribution of wealth is severely unequal.
According to Worldometer, the country’s nominal GDP for 2022 was a staggering $11.8 billion. Yet, this figure belies the reality on the ground, where poverty and economic inequality are significant challenges.
Small but Significant
Equatorial Guinea is one of the smallest countries in mainland Africa, excluding island nations. The country consists of a mainland region, Río Muni, and several islands, including the capital city of Malabo, which is located on Bioko Island. Additionally, it is one of the least populated countries on the continent, making it a unique and fascinating country to explore.
These striking contrasts make Equatorial Guinea a country worth learning more about. From its significant oil reserves to its remarkable geography, this nation in the heart of Africa has much to offer.
Equatorial Guinea boasts an impressive land area of approximately 10,831 square miles (28,052 square kilometers), as of 2024. With an estimated population of around 1,669,000, the country’s demographics are shaping up to be quite vibrant.
4. It has been ruled by a dictator for 42 years
Equatorial Guinea’s tumultuous political history has been characterized by frequent coups and an authoritarian regime. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has held power since 1979, is Africa’s longest-serving leader.
Obiang seized power from Francisco Macias Nguema in 1979, triggering a mass exodus and resulting in thousands of deaths.
Despite easing some restrictions, such as lifting the ban on the Catholic Church, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo maintained a tight grip on power. His son, Teodoro Nguema Obiang, serves as the country’s vice president.
The Country’s Economy is Dominated by Oil Production
Oil exports account for more than 90% of Equatorial Guinea’s exports, significantly impacting the economy. However, this dependence on oil has made the economy more vulnerable to global fluctuations in oil prices.
While Equatorial Guinea is often associated with scandals, it’s also a country with a rich history and a strong economy. The country’s success is a testament to its resilience and adaptability.
