Equatorial Guinea

Abstract

HISTORY. The Republic of Equatorial Guinea became independent on 12 Oct. 1968 after having been a Spanish colony (Territorios Españoles del Golfo de Guinea) until 1959. From 1959 to 1963 the territory was made into two Spanish provinces with a status comparable to the metropolitan provinces. From 1964 to 1968 this Equatorial Region became an autonomous entity still retaining the status of two Spanish provinces, but with a certain amount of internal self-government. A cabinet of 8 African members headed by a President of the Government Council was responsible for internal affairs, defence and foreign affairs remaining reserved to a Spanish High Commissioner. Serious political disturbances in Rio Muni occurred in March-April 1969. This led to the partial withdrawal of the Spanish community since when UN agencies have supplied personnel to man hospitals, public utilities and ministries. Agreement for co-operation in education and economic development were signed with Spain in 1971 and 1972. The Republic still depends heavily on Spanish economic aid.