Did you know there’s a country in Africa where people say “¡Hola!” to greet each other and answer with “¡Hola! ¿Cómo estás”? That country is Equatorial Guinea. It is the only country in Africa where Spanish is an official language.

Why do people speak Spanish there?

Many years ago, Equatorial Guinea was a Spanish colony called Spanish Guinea. When it became independent in 1968, Spanish remained important for schools, government, and for people from different communities to communicate with one another.

Today, Equatorial Guinea has three official languages: Spanish, French and Portuguese. Many people also speak local languages like Fang and Bube, as well as other languages.

Where is Equatorial Guinea?

Equatorial Guinea is on the west coast of Central Africa, next to the Atlantic Ocean. The mainland part is called Río Muni. It lies between Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the east and south.

But that is not all. Equatorial Guinea also has islands. The largest is Bioko, home to the capital city, Malabo. Other islands include Annobón, Corisco, and the Elobey islands.

Fun fact:

Even though the country is called Equatorial Guinea, most of it is north of the equator. Only the island of Annobón is a little south of the equator.

What is it like there?

Picture a place with tropical beaches, rainforests, and mountains. Equatorial Guinea has warm weather and lots of green plants, especially after heavy rain.

If you like animals, here is something extraordinary: on the mainland, Monte Alén National Park is home to animals like gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and many more.

A “Say It!” Spanish mini-box

Try these kid-friendly phrases:

• Hola — Hello
• ¿Cómo estás? — How are you?
• Bien, gracias. — Fine, thank you
• ¿Cómo te llamas? — What’s your name
• Me llamo _____. — My name is _____