Equatorial Guinea is a small nation located on the west coast of Central Africa. The country is bordered by Cameroon to the north, Gabon to the east and south, and the Gulf of Guinea to the west. The capital of Equatorial Guinea is Malabo, located on the island of Bioko. Equatorial Guinea has a population of just over 1.2 million people, the majority of whom are of the Fang ethnic group.
The history of Equatorial Guinea is one of great diversity and complexity. The area was first inhabited by the Pygmies, followed by the Bantu, who migrated from the north and eventually became the majority. In the 15th century, the Portuguese arrived, introducing Christianity and establishing trading posts. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Portuguese were supplanted by the British and Dutch, who established plantations and trading posts in the region.
In 1843, the Spanish established a protectorate over the area, which they named Spanish Guinea. The Spanish were largely responsible for the development of the region, introducing modern infrastructure, education, and healthcare. In 1968, Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain, becoming the only Spanish-speaking nation in Africa.
The first president of Equatorial Guinea was Francisco Macías Nguema, a former school teacher and leader of the Movimiento Nacional de Liberación (MNL). Under his rule, the country experienced great economic and political turmoil. In 1979, Macías was overthrown in a coup d'état led by Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has remained in power ever since.
Under Obiang's rule, Equatorial Guinea has experienced tremendous economic growth, with oil and gas reserves providing the main source of income. Despite this, the country remains one of the poorest in the world, with a large portion of the population living in extreme poverty.
Equatorial Guinea is a culturally diverse nation, with many different ethnic groups living in harmony. The Fang are the largest group, followed by the Bubi, Ndowe, and Annobonese. Each group has its own distinct language, culture, and traditions.
Despite its turbulent past, Equatorial Guinea has made great strides in recent years. The country is now a member of the United Nations and the African Union, and has a vibrant economy. The government is actively promoting economic development and foreign investment, and is working to improve the lives of its citizens.