Equatorial Guinea remains culturally rooted to Spain and participates in several aspects of Spanish life. While the country is predominantly Roman Catholic, some pagan practices are exercised. The country registers about 20 other religious affiliations, including Adventists, Baptists, Evangelicals and Methodists. Top of Page History The Republic of Equatorial Guinea was a territory of Portugal from 1471 to 1778. It later became Spanish Guinea, and then received its independence from Spain on October 12, 1968.
Equatorial Guinea is the only Spanish-speaking nation in Africa.
The country retained Spanish as its official language upon gaining independence from Spain. Other commonly spoken languages are pidgin English, Fang, Bubi, Combe, Bissio and Annabones. For more than 10 years after independence, the country was under the dictatorship of former President Francisco Macias Nguema. He was overthrown in 1979 in a coup d'etat organized by Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. Obiang Nguema Mbasogo was named President in 1982.