Guinea-Bissau, officially known as the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, is a small country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north, Guinea to the south and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

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Geography

Climate:

Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season lasts from June to November, characterized by heavy rainfall, while the dry season extends from December to May. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) throughout the year.

Fauna:

The country is home to diverse flora and fauna, including mangrove forests, savannas, and tropical rainforests. Wildlife includes species such as chimpanzees, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Longest Rivers:

The longest river in Guinea-Bissau is the Geba River, which flows through the eastern part of the country. Other significant rivers include the Cacheu, Mansôa, and Corubal rivers.

Highest Mountains:

Guinea-Bissau is relatively flat, with no significant mountain ranges. The highest point in the country is an unnamed hill in the eastern region, with an elevation of only 300 meters (984 feet) above sea level.

History

Prehistory:

The region that is now Guinea-Bissau has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Various ethnic groups, including the Balanta, Fula, and Mandinka, have inhabited the area for centuries.

Colonial Era:

Portuguese explorers arrived in the 15th century and established trading posts along the coast. Guinea-Bissau became a significant hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with Portuguese colonizers exploiting the region’s resources. The country gained independence from Portugal in 1973 after a protracted liberation struggle led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).

Modern Age:

Following independence, Guinea-Bissau experienced political instability, including periods of dictatorship, military coups, and civil unrest. The country has struggled with poverty, corruption, and internal conflict, hindering its socio-economic development.

Demographics

Guinea-Bissau has a diverse population of approximately 2 million people, comprising various ethnic groups, including the Balanta, Fula, Mandinka, and Manjaco. The majority of the population adheres to Islam, with Islam being the predominant religion in the country. Portuguese is the official language, although numerous indigenous languages are also spoken.

Administrative Divisions

Guinea-Bissau is divided into eight administrative regions, each with its own governor and administrative structure. The administrative divisions of Guinea-Bissau, along with their respective populations, are as follows:

1. Bafatá Region – Population: 250,000
2. Biombo Region – Population: 110,000
3. Bissau Region – Population: 400,000
4. Bolama Region – Population: 35,000
5. Cacheu Region – Population: 200,000
6. Gabú Region – Population: 200,000
7. Oio Region – Population: 250,000
8. Quinara Region – Population: 150,000
9. Tombali Region – Population: 160,000

10 Largest Cities by Population

The largest cities in Guinea-Bissau by population include:

1. Bissau – Population: 400,000
2. Bafatá – Population: 50,000
3. Gabú – Population: 40,000
4. Bissora – Population: 30,000
5. Bolama – Population: 25,000
6. Cacheu – Population: 20,000
7. Catió – Population: 20,000
8. Buba – Population: 20,000
9. Quinhámel – Population: 20,000
10. Farámpo – Population: 15,000

Education Systems

Education:

Education in Guinea-Bissau is nominally free and compulsory for children aged 7 to 13, although access and quality remain significant challenges. The educational system comprises primary, secondary, and vocational levels, with efforts ongoing to improve literacy rates and educational infrastructure.

Top Universities:

Guinea-Bissau has limited higher education institutions, with the University of Bissau being the main university in the country.

Transportation

Airports:

Guinea-Bissau has several airports, with Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau being the main gateway for international and domestic flights. Other airports include Bafatá Airport and Gabú Airport.

Roadways:

The country has a limited road network, with major highways connecting major cities and towns. However, road conditions are often poor, particularly during the rainy season.

Ports:

The major port in Guinea-Bissau is the Port of Bissau, located in the capital city. It serves as a crucial hub for maritime trade and transportation.

Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 2 million
• Capital: Bissau
• Official Language: Portuguese
• Religion: Islam
• Ethnic Groups: Balanta, Fula, Mandinka, Manjaco
• Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
• ISO Country Code: GW
• International Calling Code: +245
• Top-Level Domain: .gw