Equatorial Guinea
Subregion: Middle Africa
Equatorial Guinea is a country located in Middle Africa. It is made up of an inland area and a few islands.The Capital City is Malabo, located on the island of Bioko. The government is a Unitary presidential republic under a dictatorship. The official languages of the country are Spanish, French and Portuguese. However, the common language on the mainland is Fang and the common language on the islands is Bubi. The predominant religion is Christianity. Healthcare in Equatorial Guinea is public but underfunded. There are about 50 hospitals and facilities, however they lack trained staff, tools and supplies.
Safety:
Equatorial Guinea is relatively safe. Crime is an issue, particularly in the capital city of Malabo. There have been reports of armed robberies, carjackings, and other violent crimes targeting both locals and foreigners. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone or at night. Political instability is also a concern in Equatorial Guinea. The country has been ruled by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo since 1979, and there have been allegations of human rights abuses and political oppression. The government has also been accused of corruption, and there have been several attempted coups and other political upheavals in recent years. Additionally, Equatorial Guinea has a relatively high incidence of infectious diseases, including malaria, cholera and yellow fever. Visitors are advised to take appropriate precautions, such as using mosquito nets and getting vaccinated before traveling to the country. Road conditions in Equatorial Guinea can be poor, particularly in rural areas. Many roads are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate, particularly during the rainy season. Travelers should exercise caution when driving and consider hiring a local driver who is familiar with the roads. Public transportation in Equatorial Guinea is generally limited and can be unreliable. Taxis are available in the major cities, but travelers should negotiate the fare before getting in the car. Renting a car in Bata is also a feasible option for transportation. However, the rental car process is difficult and should be handled by a local. Women should avoid traveling to remote locations or going out alone after dark. Be sure to carry your passport with you at all times, so you have them available for checkpoints. A written explanation in Spanish may be helpful if you don’t speak the language, since the officers at the checkpoints don’t speak English.
Cultural Customs:
Equatorial Guinea is a small country located in Central Africa, and it is home to several distinct ethnic groups with their unique cultural customs. Family is the backbone of Equatorial Guinean society, and it is highly respected. Families typically live in extended households, which can include grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Hospitality is another essential aspect of Equatorial Guinean culture. Visitors are welcomed warmly and treated with great respect, and it is customary to offer guests food and drink. Music and dance are significant parts of Equatorial Guinean culture, and traditional music and dance are often performed at weddings, funerals, and other significant events. Equatorial Guineans typically wear traditional clothing, which is often made from brightly colored fabrics and adorned with intricate patterns. Dressing well in public is part of the culture for the Equatoguinean people. The cuisine of Equatorial Guinea is a blend of African and Spanish influences, with staple foods including cassava, plantains, and yams. Seafood is also popular, as the country has a long coastline. Christianity is the dominant religion in Equatorial Guinea, although traditional African beliefs are still practiced by some ethnic groups. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Equatorial Guinea, and the country has a national football team that has participated in several international competitions. The Fang people are the largest ethnic group in the country. They have kept a lot of their ancient customs from food to celebrations. The country’s most famous celebration is Abira, which is to rid the communities of evil.
Geography & Weather:
Equatorial Guinea’s climate is tropical.
In Malabo, on the island of Bioko, the average temperature ranges from 77 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is August with a median temperature of 77 degrees F and February being the hottest month with a median temperature of 82 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is March - November. It's cloudy all year round. The sea temperature is 82 degrees F all year round.
In Bata, which is on the coast of the mainland, the average temperature ranges from 76 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is August with a median temperature of 76 degrees F and the temps are consistent from Dec - May with a median temperature of 80 degrees F. The dry season in this area is from June - August. Even on the mainland, the sun doesn’t shine much.
Economy:
Equatorial Guinea is known for its large reserves of oil and natural gas, which have contributed significantly to its economy in recent decades. Despite its significant wealth, Equatorial Guinea faces high levels of unemployment and poverty, particularly outside of the oil and gas industry. According to the World Bank, the unemployment rate in Equatorial Guinea was estimated to be around 11% in 2019, with youth unemployment being particularly high. The country's economy is heavily dependent on its oil and gas sector, which accounts for more than 90% of its export revenues. However, this reliance on a single sector makes the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, which can have a significant impact on its economy. Additionally, the government of Equatorial Guinea has faced criticism for its handling of the country's oil wealth, with accusations of corruption and mismanagement. This has contributed to a lack of investment in other sectors of the economy, such as agriculture and tourism, which could potentially provide more employment opportunities for the country's population. Overall, while Equatorial Guinea has significant natural resources and potential for economic growth, its heavy reliance on the oil and gas sector, coupled with issues of corruption and mismanagement, has contributed to high levels of unemployment and poverty in the country.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Guinean Franc (GNF)
GNF 1.00 = USD .00011
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
1,402,985
Median Age:
22.3 yrs
Life Expectancy:
59.82 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? No, if visit is less than 90 days
If you are staying longer than 90 days, you will need to register at the local police station
Work Visa must be obtained prior to arrival through your employer
*Additional Information*
Polio vaccination required for entry. Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes
Naturalization - Equatoguinean citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Equatorial Guinea for at least ten consecutive years, paid taxes, is of good morality, no physical or mental disabilities, and have no criminal conviction inside or outside of the country. The person must also prove competency in Spanish or other language used in the country.
Residency Requirements:
A temporary residency visa is available for people looking to relocate into Equatorial Guinea as expats. You must apply for residency prior to arrival. This visa is good for 1 year.
Resources:
Equatorial Guinea Secratory of State
U.S. Embassy Malabo
Carretera Malabo II
Malabo, Guinea Ecuatorial
Telephone: +(240) 333-095-741
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +240 555-516-008
Email: MalaboConsular@state.gov