Río Muni

Río Muni was the continental region of Spanish Guinea, later known as Equatorial Guinea. Located between Cameroon and Gabon in West Africa, it comprised approximately 26,000 square kilometers. The capital of Río Muni was Bata.

Historically, the area was inhabited by various Bantu peoples, primarily the Fang ethnic group. Spanish interest in the region began in the 19th century, primarily through treaties with local chiefs. Río Muni formally became a Spanish colony in 1900, though effective control was limited to coastal areas for many years due to sparse infrastructure and resistance from indigenous populations.

The economy of Río Muni was primarily based on agriculture, with exports of timber, coffee, and cocoa. Spanish administration focused on resource extraction and establishing missions for evangelization and education, albeit with limited success in integrating the indigenous population into Spanish society.

In 1959, Río Muni and the island of Fernando Po (now Bioko) became provinces of Spain. In 1963, they were granted limited autonomy. In 1968, Spanish Guinea gained independence as the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, uniting Río Muni and Bioko under a single government.

The legacy of Spanish colonial rule in Río Muni is complex, marked by both economic exploitation and cultural influence. Today, the region continues to be a significant part of Equatorial Guinea, home to a majority of the country's population and contributing substantially to its natural resources.