Guinea

Guinea covers about 246,000 km² and is located along the Atlantic coast of West Africa. Its geography is diverse, including coastal plains, highlands and savanna regions. The Fouta Djallon is particularly important, as it forms the source region for several major West African rivers. Guinea has a tropical climate with significant rainfall, especially in coastal and highland areas, supporting agricultural activity.

Before French colonisation in the late 19th century, local communities relied on subsistence farming. During colonial rule, cash crops such as coffee and bananas were promoted for export. After independence in 1958, agriculture remained central to the economy. 

Today, the primary sector contributes around 20% of GDP and employs the majority of the population. Approximately 60% of the land is used for agriculture. Rice is the main staple crop and widely cultivated. Other important crops include maize, cassava and groundnuts for domestic consumption. Coffee, cocoa and palm oil are grown as cash crops. Livestock farming includes cattle, sheep and goats, particularly in savanna regions.

Forests cover roughly 25% of Guinea’s territory, though deforestation has reduced forest areas over time.
Guinea’s Atlantic coastline supports fisheries, which provide fish for local consumption and contribute to food security.

Overall, Guinea’s primary sector reflects its varied geography: rice cultivation in fertile valleys, mixed farming in savanna regions, livestock herding and coastal fishing. Despite the importance of mining in the economy, agriculture, forestry and fisheries remain vital for livelihoods and food supply.

In 2023, Gerold visited Guinea for one week, flew to Conakry and drove with a car towards the triangle border of Ivory Cost and Liberia, about 1000 km, mud roads and unique landscape and Westafrican culture.