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HRsolution » COUNTRIES » Guinea-Bissau

Population

Guinea-Bissau has about 2 million inhabitants (as of 2024). The population is ethnically diverse, with the Balanta, Fula, and Mandinka being the largest groups. Most of the population lives in rural areas and works in agriculture.

Capital

The capital of Guinea-Bissau is Bissau. It is the economic, political, and cultural center of the country and the most important port.

Economic Power

Guinea-Bissau has one of the weakest economies in the world, heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly the export of cashew nuts, which is the country’s main export. The GDP per capita is about USD 800 (as of 2023). Political instability, corruption, and lack of infrastructure hinder economic development.

Culture

Guinea-Bissau has a rich cultural diversity shaped by various ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, music, and dances. Traditional music, rich in drum rhythms, is often played during religious ceremonies and festivals. The culture is also strongly influenced by Islam, Christianity, and animistic beliefs.

Currency

The official currency of Guinea-Bissau is the CFA franc (XOF), used by the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA).

Health Insurance and Social Security System

Guinea-Bissau has a very rudimentary social security system. Healthcare is primarily public, though often inadequate and poorly equipped. Private insurance is rare, and many people struggle to access proper healthcare services.

Costs for Employers

Employers in Guinea-Bissau must contribute a small percentage of gross wages to social security. The exact contribution rates are low, but many employers offer additional benefits to supplement the often inadequate public systems.

Salaries and Bonuses

Salaries in Guinea-Bissau are very low by international standards. There is no unified legal minimum wage, and wages vary greatly depending on the type of employment. Bonuses are rare and typically only found in larger or international companies.

Payroll

Payroll in Guinea-Bissau includes the basic salary, possible allowances, and statutory deductions for taxes and social security contributions.

Public Holidays

Guinea-Bissau has several public holidays, including:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Independence Day (September 24)
  • Labor Day (May 1)
  • Good Friday (varies)
  • Christmas (December 25)
  • Various religious holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Working Hours

Regular working hours in Guinea-Bissau are typically 40 hours per week, spread over five or six working days. Working hours vary by industry, but most offices operate from Monday to Friday.

Vacation

Employees are entitled to at least 20 days of paid annual leave, which may increase with length of service or through contractual agreements. Additional leave days may be granted for special occasions such as weddings.

Incapacity for Work

In the event of illness, employees are entitled to sick leave. Payment during sick leave is often limited and depends on contractual agreements and legal regulations.

Termination/Severance Pay

Notice periods and severance pay regulations in Guinea-Bissau depend on the length of employment and contractual terms.

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