Guinea-Bissau was part of the Portuguese Empire for centuries, with 14% of the population speaking Portuguese.
The country, with an estimated population of 2 million, was once part of the kingdom of Gabu, as well as, part of the Mali Empire.
Gaining independence on this day in 1973 and formally recognized by Portugal in 1974, the name of its capital, Bissau, was added to the country’s name to prevent confusion with the Republic of Guinea.
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Guinea-Bissau has had a long period of political instability which has ruined its economic and social conditions.
There are diverse religions in Guinea-Bissau. According to CIA World Factbook, 40% of its population are Muslims, 22% Christians, 15% Animists and 18% unspecified.
With an economy that depends largely on fish, cashew nuts, and groundnuts, the GDP per capita is one of the lowest in the world as more than two-thirds of the population lives below the poverty line.
Despite the challenges faced by Guinea-Bissau, these are some of the amazing places the country has to offer:
