Independent from France since 1958...this small African country is home to over 12 million people.
The name comes from the Gulf of Guinea...its coastline.
It remained under French Rule from the 1890's.
Since declaring independence it has basically been under conflict and numerous dictators from that time until this...as recently as a new coup in September where military has taken over the country.
...suddenly I am quite glad this adventure is virtual...
Homosexuality is illegal here, and female circumcision is still routinely practiced.
Most of the work is agricultural...and in the bauxite mines.
Guinea is known for its bauxite production.
Bauxite is used to produce alumina...which is then used to produce aluminum.
The mining and exposure to the clay-like rock is harmful and over time can be fatal.
Bauxite being strip-mined in Guinea.
https://youtu.be/K_WkvtBWIx0
How Aluminum is Made
https://youtu.be/eGdXxFjqFsg
82 million tons of aluminum are produced here yearly. Roughly a quarter of the world's supply.
The recent coup has caused the prices to skyrocket.
Although some of the country is beautiful, with mountains and waterfalls, tourism is not advised at this time.
It is unsafe with the upheaval and unrest.
Next we will check out Senegal.
Until then...
