Everything you need to know about Gabon: news, reviews, in-depth analysis, opinion and more

Gabon: The land of Crystal Mountains

The early inhabitants of Gabon were the Babingas in around 7000 B.C. Then came the Bantu tribals from the surrounding parts of Africa. Fang tribal group comprise around 25% of the total population. This area was first sighted by a Portuguese explorer Diego Cam in 15 th century followed by Dutch and then finally the French colonists annexed this state in 1888 and their rule lasted till 1960 when Gabon finally gained independence.

Gabon Fast Facts :

• National Name: The Gabonese Republic
• National Capital: Libreville
• Total Area: 267,667 sq km (103,347 sq miles)
• Total Population: 1.4 million (UN, 2008)
• Ethnic races: Bantu tribes, including four major tribal groupings (Fang, Bapounou, Nzebi, Obamba); other Africans and Europeans, 154,000, including 10,700 French and 11,000 persons of dual nationality
• Religions: Christian 55%-75%, animist, Muslim less than 1%
• Currency: CFA Franc
• GDP per capita (PPP): $14,000 (2007 est.)
• Languages: French (official), Fang, Myene, Nzebi, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi
• Life expectancy: 56 years (men), 57 years (women) (UN)
• Literacy Rate: 63.2%

Gabon Geography, Climate and Economy :

The geography of Gabon is characterized by dense equatorial forests that extensively covers 85% of the country. Its area is considerably less than Colorado. Ogooué is Gabon's largest river that is 1200 km long flowing through the thick rain forests.

The climate of Gabon remains relatively humid and hot throughout the year. The Equatorial climate comprises around 80% humidity. From the month of June to August there is an extremely dry season while from October to May it receives heavy rainfall. The average temperature hovers around 25 degree Celsius.

In terms of Economy, as compared to other nearby African countries Gabon has a thriving per capita income. The largest economic contribution is made by its offshore oil production. Its natural resource content includes petroleum, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore, natural gas and hydropower. Gabon mainly exports manganese, iron and timber.

Culture and Cuisine of Gabon:

Gabonese culture is largely influenced by France. However, the indigenous culture of the tribals is also preserved in the form of music and folk dance. Folklore and Mythology forms an integral part of their culture. Gabonese traditional music is famous among the locals. The tribals also use specific masks such as n'goltang (Fang) for their colourful festivals.

The traditional Gabonese cuisine includes rice, yams, cassava, meat and fish. The essence of African cuisine is still ingrained into its cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include nyembwe, stuffed crab, meat stews and fufu. Gabonese people follow different cooking methods, which enhances the flavor of the dishes. They follow roasting, baking, mashing and spicing.

Tourist Sites in Gabon:

Tourists can enjoy the sightseeing in Gabon besides exploring never ending white sand beaches, natural sites, enchanting wildlife, historical sculptures and adventurous safari through dense tropical forests. Libreville, the charming town and capital of Gabon is known for its Gabonese sculptures. One of the other popular places is Arboretum de Sybang that comes on the way to Libreville.

Some other Tourist Sites :

• Cap Lopez
• Mayumba
• Port-Gentil
• Owendo
• Gamba
• Franceville
• Tchibanga
• Koulamoutou
• Fouganmou
• Mouila
• Ndende
• Lembamba
• Bongolo