Republic of Guinea-Bissau
Capital
Bissau
Region
Africa
Population
1,781,308
Area (km²)
36,125
Guinea-Bissau, a small West African nation with a population of about 1.78 million, covers 36,125 km² and boasts the vibrant capital of Bissau, where colonial Portuguese influences blend with local culture. Despite its rich biodiversity, including mangrove forests and Bijagós Archipelago beaches, the country faces economic challenges with GDP data currently unavailable, relying heavily on agriculture like cashew nuts for exports. This former Portuguese colony, independent since 1974, continues to navigate political instability while offering untapped potential in ecotourism and natural resources.
Guinea-Bissau has a high fertility rate of 3.84 children per woman, contributing to a rapidly growing and young population. While life expectancy is 64.09 years, this high birth rate, coupled with a significant infant mortality rate of 43.100 per 1,000 live births, creates demographic pressures on health and educational systems.
Guinea-Bissau maintains a substantial forest area, covering 69.512% of its land. This high percentage of natural forest is a valuable environmental asset, especially for a developing nation facing economic pressures, suggesting opportunities for sustainable resource management.
Only 40.500% of Guinea-Bissau's population has access to electricity, indicating a significant infrastructure deficit. This limited access poses a major challenge to economic development, education, and quality of life, especially given the country's otherwise strong forest cover which could potentially be leveraged for sustainable energy.
Guinea-Bissau exhibits a robust GDP growth rate of 5.827%, which is quite strong. However, this growth starts from a very low base, as indicated by its GDP per capita of only $988.09, highlighting the significant economic development still needed.
GDP (Current US$)
$2.13B
Year: 2023
GDP Per Capita
$988.09
GDP Growth (%)
5.83%
Inflation (%)
7.1%
Unemployment (%)
2.65%
Debt to GDP (%)
N/A%
Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025
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