Geography:
Where is Gabon located?
Gabon is located in Central Africa and is bordered by Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, and the Republic of the Congo to the east and south.
Which ocean borders Gabon's western coastline?
The Atlantic Ocean.
What is the highest point in Gabon?
Mont Montboundou, reaching 1,575 meters.
What is the name of the national park that protects lowland rainforests and gorillas in Gabon?
Lopé National Park.
Which country does Gabon not share a land border with?
The Republic of Congo.
What is the largest river flowing through Gabon?
The Ogooué River.
Culture and History:
What is the official language of Gabon?
French.
What is the traditional wood used for Bwiti masks, iconic cultural artifacts of Gabon?
Angolan ironwood.
What is the name of the traditional music style performed on the ngombi, a stringed instrument with a gourd resonator?
Mvet.
Which French explorer claimed Gabon for France in the 19th century?
Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza.
When did Gabon gain independence from France?
August 17, 1960.
Flora and Fauna:
What is the national animal of Gabon?
The mandrill, a colorful primate with red facial markings.
What type of tree in Gabon produces valuable okoumé wood, used for plywood and veneers?
Okoumé tree.
What bird species, also known as the "thunderbird," is found in the rainforests of Gabon?
The black-breasted wattled hornbill.
What type of shark can be found off the coast of Gabon, known for its large dorsal fin and aggressive behavior?
The tiger shark.
What rare and elusive primate species can be found in the Lopé National Park?
The western lowland gorilla.
Economy and Resources:
What is Gabon's primary mineral export?
Manganese.
What is the nickname for Gabon due to its abundance of natural resources?
"The Gabon Woodpile."
What is the currency used in Gabon?
The Central African CFA franc (XAF).
What is one of the challenges Gabon faces with its natural resources?
Illegal logging and deforestation.
What industry is playing an increasingly important role in Gabon's economy?
Ecotourism.
Current Events and Politics:
Who is the current president of Gabon?
Ali Bongo Ondimba.
What is the name of the political party associated with Ali Bongo Ondimba?
Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG).
What is one of the environmental initiatives Gabon is undertaking to combat climate change?
The REDD+ program, which aims to conserve forests and reduce carbon emissions.
What is the official religion of Gabon?
There is no official religion; Christianity and Islam are the most practiced religions.
What is the population of Gabon?
Approximately 2.2 million people.
Fun Facts:
What is the name of the traditional dance performed by women in Gabon, characterized by rapid footwork and rhythmic clapping?
The Ndjangui.
What is a popular dish in Gabon made with cassava and fish or meat?
Ndomba.
What is the name of the traditional mask associated with the Fang people of Gabon, believed to ward off evil spirits?
Ngil.
What is the name of the famous Gabonese footballer who played for Barcelona and AC Milan?
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
What is the nickname for Libreville, the capital?
The nickname of :ibreville is "Free Town," derives from its early establishment as a refuge for previously enslaved individuals.