Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau is a small country on the west coast of Africa. It has a mainland area and a group of islands called the Bijagos Archipelago. The country is one of the smallest in Africa. Guinea-Bissau is known for growing cashew nuts and its beautiful island wildlife.

Land and People

About 2 million people live in Guinea-Bissau. The capital is Bissau. The coast has many rivers, mangrove swamps, and islands. The Bijagos Islands are home to hippos, rare birds, and sea turtles.

Culture and Fun Facts

Guinea-Bissau is one of the top producers of cashew nuts in the world. Portuguese is the official language because Portugal once ruled the country. The Bijagos Islands have a unique culture where women hold many leadership roles. Traditional music and dance are important to the people.

Fun Facts

• Guinea-Bissau is one of the top cashew nut producers in the world.
• The Bijagos Islands are one of the few places in the world where saltwater hippos live.
• In some Bijagos communities, women choose their husbands rather than the other way around.

Did You Know?

The Bijagos Islands off the coast of Guinea-Bissau are home to saltwater hippos. These hippos swim between the islands and are found nowhere else on Earth.