Country Profile · No. 15

Equatorial Guinea

Capital / Admin Capital

Malabo (Olain / Ciudad de la Paz under development)Population: ~2.0MIndependence: 1968 (October 12)

First President

Francisco Macías Nguema (1968–1979)Current President: Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (serving since August 1979)

Geography & Borders

Cameroon, Gabon, Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean). Consists of a mainland territory (Río Muni) and offshore islands including Bioko and Annobón.

Demographics & Language

Christianity (Predominantly Roman Catholic, ~88%). Official: Spanish language, French language, Portuguese language. Major groups: Fang (~85%), Bubi (~6%).

Economy & GDP

Offshore crude petroleum and natural gas production, timber extraction, construction.

Global Diaspora

1. Spain (~40k), 2. Gabon (~25k), 3. France (~10k), 4. United States (~3k–5k). U.S. Hubs (States / Cities): Maryland, Texas (Houston), Washington D.C.

Major Conflicts

1979 Equatoguinean coup d'état (overthrow of Francisco Macías Nguema), Wonga Coup attempt (2004, foiled mercenary plot to overthrow President Obiang).

3 Must-See Sites

1. Monte Alén National Park (A pristine mainland rainforest reserve sheltering chimpanzees, gorillas, and forest elephants), 2. Pico Basilé (The highest volcanic peak on Bioko Island offering panoramic views across the Gulf of Guinea), 3. Malabo colonial historic center (Capital city featuring striking 19th-century Spanish colonial architecture and cathedrals).

Quick Facts

The only sovereign African nation where Spanish is an official language; ranks among Africa's highest per-capita GDP nations due to massive offshore oil discoveries, though wealth distribution remains heavily skewed.