PEOPLE
The population
of Guinea-Bissau is ethnically diverse with distinct languages,
customs, and social structures. Most people are farmers, with
traditional religious beliefs (animism); 45% are Muslim, principally
Fula and Mandinka speakers concentrated in the north and northeast.
Other important groups are the Balanta and Papel, living in the
southern coastal regions, and the Manjaco and Mancanha, occupying
the central and northern coastal areas.
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Bissau-Guinean(s).
Population (2006): 1,700,000.
Population growth rate (2005): 3%.
Ethnic groups: Balanta 30%, Fula 20%, Manjaca 14%, Mandinga 13%, Papel 7%, others 16%.
Religions: Indigenous beliefs 50%, Muslim 45%, Christian 5%.
Languages: Portuguese (official), Creole, French; many indigenous languages--Balanta-Kentohe 26%, Pulaar 18%, Mandjak 12%, Mandinka 11%, Pepel 9%, Biafada 3%, Mancanha 3%, Bidyogo 2%, Ejamat 2%, Mansoanka 1%, Bainoukgunyuno 1%, Nalu 1%, Soninke 1%, Badjara 1%, Bayote 0.5%, Kobiana 0.04%, Cassanga 0.04%, Basary 0.03%.
Education: Years compulsory--4. Literacy (2005)--39.6% of adults.
Health: Infant mortality rate (2005)--200 deaths/1,000 live births. Life expectancy (2005)--45.8 years.
Work force (480,000): Agriculture--85%; industry, services, and commerce--13%; government--2%.
