About GA
Location
Gabon is a country located on the west coast of Central Africa, bordered by Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, the Republic of the Congo to the east and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Capital
The capital city of Gabon is Libreville.
Population
As of the latest estimates, Gabon has a population of approximately 2.2 million people.
Area
Gabon covers a total land area of about 267,667 square kilometers (103,347 square miles).
Official Language
The official language of Gabon is French.
Government
Gabon is a republic with a presidential system of government. The President of Gabon serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The country has a unicameral parliament called the National Assembly.
Independence
Gabon gained independence from France on August 17, 1960.
Currency
The currency of Gabon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
Economy
Gabon has one of the more prosperous economies in sub-Saharan Africa, largely due to its rich natural resources, particularly oil. Oil revenue comprises a significant portion of the country's GDP and government revenue. Gabon also has substantial mineral resources and a small but growing tourism industry.
Environment
Gabon is known for its diverse and pristine rainforests, which are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees. The country has made efforts to conserve its natural resources through the creation of national parks and protected areas.
Culture
Gabon has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its indigenous peoples, as well as by French colonialism. Traditional music and dance play an important role in Gabonese culture, with various ethnic groups having their distinct musical traditions. The Fang people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Gabon, are known for their vibrant masks and sculptures.
International Relations
Gabon is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), among other international organizations. It has maintained diplomatic relations with various countries around the world.
National Items of Gabon
Black Panther
The Black Panther is an iconic symbol of Gabon, representing strength, mystery, and the rich wildlife heritage of the country's rainforests.
Okoumé Tree
The Okoumé Tree (Aucoumea klaineana) is significant in Gabon for its economic value, particularly in the timber industry. It symbolizes the natural resources and economic importance of forestry.
Mabala Dance
The Mabala Dance is a traditional dance in Gabon, often performed during ceremonies and celebrations. It symbolizes cultural heritage, artistic expression, and social traditions.
Mpongwe Language
The Mpongwe language is one of the traditional languages spoken in Gabon. It symbolizes cultural identity, linguistic heritage, and social cohesion.
Gabonese Cuisine
Gabonese cuisine, with dishes such as Nyembwe (chicken with palm nut sauce) and Poisson Salé (salted fish), symbolizes the rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors of Gabon.
Loango National Park
Loango National Park is a significant natural reserve, symbolizing Gabon's commitment to conservation, biodiversity, and natural beauty.
Gorilla
The Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) is found in Gabon's rainforests and symbolizes the country's rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Bwiti Religion
Bwiti is a traditional spiritual practice among the Fang and Mitsogo peoples. It symbolizes cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and traditional rituals.
Iboga
Iboga (Tabernanthe iboga) is a plant used in traditional Bwiti ceremonies. It symbolizes spiritual significance, traditional medicine, and cultural heritage.
Equatorial Forest
The dense equatorial forest covering much of Gabon symbolizes the country's natural beauty, ecological richness, and environmental importance.
Gaboon Viper
The Gaboon Viper (Bitis gabonica) is a native snake species. It symbolizes the unique wildlife and the biodiversity of Gabon's ecosystems.
Libreville
Libreville, the capital city of Gabon, symbolizes the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country.
Ivindo National Park
Ivindo National Park, known for its waterfalls and diverse wildlife, symbolizes the country's natural beauty and commitment to conservation.
Punu Masks
Punu masks are traditional Gabonese masks used in ceremonies. They symbolize the rich cultural heritage, artistry, and spiritual beliefs of the Punu people.
Gabonese Traditional Dress
Traditional Gabonese dress, often colorful and intricately designed, symbolizes cultural heritage, identity, and traditional fashion.
Ogooué River
The Ogooué River is a major river in Gabon. It symbolizes the natural resources, transportation routes, and lifeblood of the country's ecosystems.
"La Concorde" was adopted as the national anthem of Gabon upon its independence in 1960. The anthem reflects themes of unity, progress, and patriotism, urging the people of Gabon to work together for a brighter future.
The national anthem of Gabon is called "La Concorde" (The Concord). Here are the lyrics in French along with an English translation:
Couplet 1:
Gabon, pays de nos aïeux,
Va, debout et à l'assaut!
Dans l'unité nous vaincrons,
Au travail dans l'ordre et la discipline.
Refrain:
Au travail dans l'ordre et la discipline,
Sous le bois, le fer et la charrue,
Couronnés de palmes nous bâtirons,
Un pays plus beau qu'avant, bien aimé Gabon.
Couplet 2:
Haut les cœurs, luttons sans peur!
Dans les rangs, serrés serrons-nous!
Marchons unis, marchons unis,
Vers l'avenir radieux qui nous attend.
Refrain:
Vers l'avenir radieux qui nous attend,
Avec l'espoir comme guide sûr,
Dans la clarté retrouvée,
Vive la patrie, vive le Gabon!
Verse 1:
Gabon, the land of our ancestors,
Rise, stand up and charge!
In unity, we shall overcome,
Through work, order, and discipline.
Chorus:
Through work, order, and discipline,
Under the wood, iron, and plow,
Crowned with palms we shall build,
A country more beautiful than before, beloved Gabon.
Verse 2:
Hearts high, let us fight without fear!
In the ranks, let us stand firm together!
Let us march united, let us march united,
Towards the bright future that awaits us.
Chorus:
Towards the bright future that awaits us,
With hope as our sure guide,
In the regained clarity,
Long live the homeland, long live Gabon!
