Guinea-Bissau - Country Details

Basic Information

Capital

Bissau

Region

Africa / Western Africa

Population

2,080,000

Area

36,125 km²

Currencies

West African CFA franc (Fr)

Languages

Portuguese, Guinea-Bissau Creole

About country

Guinea-Bissau is a West African nation with a history shaped by ancient kingdoms like Kaabu and the Mali Empire. Colonized by Portugal as Portuguese Guinea, it gained independence in 1973, with its capital's name added to distinguish it from Guinea. The country has faced significant political instability since independence, marked by military interventions and coups. Approximately 2% of the population speaks Portuguese as a first language, while 33% use it as a second language. Guinea-Bissau Creole serves as the national language and a unifying force for the diverse population.