Republic of Guinea-Bissau
Context and Opportunities
A fragile state in a stabilization phase, Guinea-Bissau has immense needs for basic infrastructure. The electrical grid is almost non-existent outside the capital, Bissau. Decentralized solutions, which are quick to implement and financed by development partners, are the only viable short- and medium-term option to improve living conditions and revive the economy.
Potential Intervention Zones
The Bijagos Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with high ecotourism potential, as well as the continental regions of Gabu and Bafatá, are priority areas. Access to energy, water, and the internet is a prerequisite for developing ecotourism and processing cashew nuts, the country's main resource.
Guinea-Bissau at a glance
- Population: ~2.1 million (2023 est.)
- Area: 36,125 km²
- GDP per capita: ~ $820 USD (2023 est.)
RMS Impact Potential
- Potential number of sites: 10-15 sites
- Project Status: Contextual analysis.
Access Rates & Estimated Impact
⚡ Energy
~33%
National electricity access rate (Source: World Bank, 2021).
💧 Drinking Water
~68%
National access rate to drinking water (Source: UNICEF, 2022).
📡 Internet
~25%
Internet penetration rate (Source: DataReportal, 2023).
Potential Economic Activities for Beneficiaries
- Direct activities: Management of phone charging points, sale of Wi-Fi top-up cards, first-level maintenance of solar and water installations.
- Indirect activities: Development of small businesses requiring refrigeration, sewing or welding workshops, secretarial services, online training centers, telemedicine consultations, and e-commerce for local artisans.