Guéckédou

Guéckédou

General Information
Name	Guéckédou
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	Sub-prefecture and town
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map	250px
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Guéckédou is a town and sub-prefecture located in the Nzérékoré Region of southeastern Guinea. It serves as the administrative center of the Guéckédou Prefecture. The town is situated in a region known for its lush forests and is part of the larger Guinea Forestière area.

Geography

Guéckédou is located in the southeastern part of Guinea, near the borders with Sierra Leone and Liberia. The town is positioned in a tropical rainforest climate zone, characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. The region is known for its rich biodiversity and dense forest cover.

History

Guéckédou has historically been a center of trade and commerce due to its strategic location near the borders of Sierra Leone and Liberia. The town gained international attention during the West African Ebola virus epidemic of 2014-2016, as it was one of the epicenters of the outbreak. The epidemic had a profound impact on the local population and healthcare infrastructure.

Economy

The economy of Guéckédou is primarily based on agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming activities. The fertile soil and favorable climate conditions support the cultivation of crops such as rice, coffee, and cocoa. Additionally, the town serves as a trading hub for goods moving between Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.

Demographics

The population of Guéckédou is diverse, with various ethnic groups residing in the area. The town is home to communities of the Kissi people, among others. The population is predominantly rural, with many people living in small villages surrounding the town.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Guéckédou has faced significant challenges, particularly during the Ebola outbreak. Efforts have been made to improve healthcare facilities and services in the region, with support from international organizations and the Guinean government. The town now has several health centers and clinics providing basic medical services to the population.

Education

Education in Guéckédou is provided through a network of primary and secondary schools. The town also has vocational training centers aimed at equipping young people with skills for employment. However, access to higher education remains limited, with many students traveling to larger cities for further studies.

Also see

• Nzérékoré Region
• Guinea Forestière
• West African Ebola virus epidemic
• Kissi people