Culture of Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea's culture on the mainland is heavily entrenched in ancient rituals and songs. This is especially true for the Fang while on the capital island of Bioko has largely been influenced by Spanish customs and traditions during the colonial period. During the colonial period education and health services were developed in the country.

Traditions

Many Bubi farmers still hold to their ancient customs. One of the country's most famous celebrations is the abira which is believed to cleanse the community of evil. The balélé dance is performed along the coast throughout the year and on Bioko around Christmas.

Religion, race, and language

Most people in the country are nominally Christian while predominantly practice a combination of Roman Catholicism and pagan practice.

Spanish, French, and Portuguese (a Creole-Portuguese) are the official languages of the country.

Despite a veneer of Spanish culture and of Roman Catholic religion that is thicker in Bioko than on the mainland, Equatorial Guineans live largely according to ancient customs, which have undergone a revival since independence. Among the Fang of the mainland, witchcraft, traditional music (in which the Fang harp, the xylophone, the great drums, and the wooden trumpet are used), and storytelling survive. Spanish aid is much oriented to educational and health services. Among the Bubi farmers of Bioko, some ancient customs are still followed.

Media

News broadcasts are available on FM radio signals.

Music

Main article: Music of Equatorial Guinea

See also

• Raquel Ilonbé#Poetry and writings on Equatoguinean legends