Guinea-Bissau flag

Guinea-Bissau

Republic of Guinea-Bissau

Capital

Bissau

Region

Africa

Population

1,781,308

Area (km²)

36,125

💡Quick Summary

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.

Key Insights

High Fertility Rate and Young Population Dynamics

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.

Significant Forest Cover Despite Development Challenges

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.

Low Access to Electricity Hinders Development

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.

High GDP Growth Amidst Low GDP Per Capita

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.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

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

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230550,0001,100,0001,650,0002,200,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$250$500$750$1,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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