Facts about Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea combines mainland Río Muni with islands in the Gulf of Guinea. Ciudad de la Paz became its capital in 2026, while Malabo remains a major city on Bioko. Spanish, Fang and other languages reflect different histories across rainforest, volcanic islands and coastal settlements.
- Capital
- Ciudad de la Paz
- Currency
- Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- Language
- Spanish, French and Portuguese; Fang, Bube and others
Geography of Equatorial Guinea
Río Muni lies between Cameroon and Gabon, while Bioko is farther north off Cameroon's coast. Annobón lies well to the southwest. Ciudad de la Paz is on the mainland; the former capital, Malabo, is on Bioko.
- What is Equatorial Guinea’s capital now?
- Ciudad de la Paz, on the mainland, was proclaimed the capital on 2 January 2026, replacing Malabo on Bioko.
History of Equatorial Guinea
Portuguese exploration was followed by Spanish colonial rule over territories with different community histories. Equatorial Guinea became independent in 1968. Subsequent authoritarian government and oil development transformed national institutions and the country's place in international markets.
Languages of Equatorial Guinea
Spanish, French and Portuguese are official languages, but their everyday use differs greatly. Spanish has a longstanding administrative role. Fang is important on the mainland, Bube on Bioko, and a Portuguese-based Creole is associated with Annobón.
- Why is Spanish spoken in Equatorial Guinea?
- The country was formerly under Spanish colonial rule, and Spanish retains official and administrative roles.
Culture of Equatorial Guinea
Fang and Bube communities maintain different storytelling, music and ceremonial traditions. Annobón has its own island cultural history. Spanish-language literature and contemporary music connect these local influences with wider audiences, without making the country's culture uniform.
Economy of Equatorial Guinea
Oil and gas have provided major export earnings, changing an economy previously associated with cocoa and timber. Resource income is unevenly shared. Diversifying production and improving public services involve challenges beyond the construction of new buildings and roads.
Politics of Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea is a republic with a powerful presidency and a parliament of two chambers. Longstanding political leadership has shaped its institutions. The relocation of the capital to Ciudad de la Paz is part of a wider state-building project.
Nature and wildlife of Equatorial Guinea
Bioko's volcanic slopes contain forest habitats for primates, while beaches support nesting sea turtles. Mainland rainforest shelters different wildlife around Monte Alén. Island and mainland ecosystems face distinct pressures from hunting, development and changes in forest cover.
- Is Bioko part of Equatorial Guinea?
- Yes. It is one of the country’s islands, separate from its mainland territory of Río Muni.
Food of Equatorial Guinea
Fish, plantains, cassava and leafy vegetables are familiar ingredients. Sauces using groundnuts or palm products connect cooking with surrounding Central African traditions. Island meals and mainland dishes differ according to local catches, crops and community preferences.
Landmarks of Equatorial Guinea
Pico Basilé rises above Bioko, while Malabo preserves architecture from its Spanish colonial period. Monte Alén offers a mainland forest landscape. Ciudad de la Paz represents a more recent planned urban project, distinct from the older coastal cities.
People and society of Equatorial Guinea
Fang communities form a large part of the mainland population, while Bube identity is closely connected with Bioko. Other island and coastal communities have their own histories. Labour migration and oil development have added further diversity to urban life.