Country Profile: Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau, located in Western Africa, is bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean between Guinea and Senegal. The country covers an area of approximately 36,125 square kilometers and is characterized by a tropical climate, predominantly low-lying coastal plains, and a significant portion of forested land. With an estimated population of 2,132,325 in 2024, the nation has a diverse ethnic composition and a semi-presidential government. The economy is largely agrarian, with significant reliance on cashew exports and a history of political instability affecting development.
Geography
Guinea-Bissau is situated in Western Africa and features a diverse geography comprising coastal plains, islands, and a climate that is hot and humid, with a pronounced rainy season. The country has multiple natural resources, including fish, timber, and bauxite, yet remains largely underdeveloped.
- Total Area: 36,125 sq km
- Coastline: 350 km
- Highest Point: 277 m (Dongol Ronde)
- Natural Hazards: Harmattan haze and brush fires
People and Society
The population of Guinea-Bissau is estimated at 2,132,325 in 2024, with a young demographic where 42.3% are aged 0-14 years. The predominant ethnic groups include the Balanta and Fulani, and Portuguese serves as the official language.
- Median Age: 18.5 years
- Urban Population: 45.5% (2023)
- Literacy Rate: 63.9% (2022)
- Life Expectancy: 64.5 years (2024)
Economy
Guinea-Bissau's economy is considered extremely poor, with a GDP (PPP) estimated at $5.912 billion in 2024. The nation relies heavily on agriculture, particularly cashew nuts, and faces challenges such as systemic corruption and banking instabilities.
- GDP Growth Rate: 4.8% (2024)
- Unemployment Rate: 2.7% (2024)
- Poverty Rate: 50.5% below national poverty line (2021)
- Remittances: 9.8% of GDP (2023)
Government
Guinea-Bissau is a semi-presidential republic with a history of political turmoil. The capital, Bissau, serves as the center of governance, and the government's structure includes a unicameral legislature. As of November 2025, the interim president is General Horta Nta Na MAN.
- Last Election: November 23, 2025
- Administrative Divisions: 9 regions
- Suffrage: Universal at 18 years
- Constitution Promulgated: May 16, 1984
Military and Security
The military of Guinea-Bissau consists of the People's Revolutionary Armed Force (FARP), which includes the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Military expenditure is around 1.2% of GDP, and the country has faced challenges related to military influence in politics.
- Active Personnel: Estimated 4,000 (2025)
- Military Service Age: 18-25 years
- Military Equipment: Mostly Soviet-era
Energy
Electricity access remains low, with only 37.4% of the population having access as of 2022. The country primarily generates electricity from fossil fuels, though there is a small contribution from solar energy.
- Installed Capacity: 29,000 kW (2023)
- Electricity Consumption: 79.8 million kWh (2023)
- Rural Electrification: 15.8%
Environment
Guinea-Bissau faces significant environmental challenges such as deforestation, soil erosion, and overfishing. The country is party to several international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues.
- Forest Cover: 75% of land area (2023)
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 366,000 metric tonnes (2023)
- Waste Recycling Rate: 10.1% of municipal solid waste (2022)
Transportation
The nation has limited infrastructure, with 7 airports and a small number of ports. The capital, Bissau, serves as a key entry point for maritime trade.
- Merchant Marine: 20 vessels (2023)
- Total Ports: 2 (as of 2024)
- Civil Aircraft Registration: Prefix J5
Communications
Access to communication services is improving, but many remain underserved. The mobile cellular subscription rate is relatively high compared to fixed-line connections.
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 2.76 million (2023)
- Internet Users: 33% of the population (2023)
- Fixed Broadband Subscriptions: 7,000 (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,132,325 (2024 est.) | |
| Area | 36,125 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $5.912 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.7% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 35.82 births/1,000 population | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 64.5 years | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption | 2.351 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 63.9% | 2022 estimate |
| Urban Population | 45.5% | 2023 estimate |
| Military Expenditures | 1.2% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
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