Key Facts About Guinea-Bissau

Introduction: Guinea-Bissau is a small country in West Africa known for its Atlantic coastline, the Bijagós Islands and its history of Portuguese colonial rule.

Key pointers

  • Capital: Bissau.

  • Region: West Africa.

  • Coastline: Borders the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Neighbouring countries: Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east.

  • Official language: Portuguese.

  • Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF).

  • Colonial history: Former Portuguese colony; independence was declared in 1973 and recognized by Portugal in 1974.

  • Natural features: The Bijagós Archipelago consists of numerous islands and supports important coastal and marine ecosystems.

  • International membership: Member of the United Nations and African Union.

UPSC focus: Locate Guinea-Bissau on the western coast of Africa. Do not confuse it with the neighbouring country Guinea or Equatorial Guinea in Central Africa.