Spanish Learning Community and Resources

In this interview, we talk to Monanga Bueneke, a young YouTuber from Equatorial Guinea, who is currently studying in Malaga, Andalusia. Equatorial...what, I hear some of you say? EQUATORIAL GUINEA. Many people may not be familiar with this Central African country, which is quite relevant for the purposes of our community: Spanish is a widely spoken language in this beautiful, green, tropical land.   

Hello, Monanga. Can you introduce yourself to the community? 

My name is Monanga, I am 28 years old, and I am currently studying a Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Systems Engineering in Malaga. I come from Equatorial Guinea and I speak Fang, Ndowe, Spanish and French. 

Equatorial Guinea is a tropical country located in Central Africa, between Cameroon and Gabon. Geographically, it is divided into two parts: the continental region and the insular region. I am from the mainland, from a village near Bata, the largest city in the country. On the other hand, the offshore region is made up of five islands: Bioko, Annobón, Corisco, Elobey Grande and Elobey Chico. For historical reasons, the capital of Equatorial Guinea is Malabo, which is situated on the island of Bioko. 

What can you tell us about your home country? What is so special about it? 

What makes Equatorial Guinea special is the people. We are very welcoming. We are also a remarkably diverse country. In a simplified way, Equatorial Guinea has five main ethnic groups: the Fang, the Bubi, the Ndowe, the Bisio and the Annobonese. Although we are very different from one another, we know how to live together harmoniously. Each ethnic group has its own language, culture, traditions, customs and food. This is the most beautiful thing, our cultural differences.

 
If each ethnic group has its own language, how do you communicate with each other? 

Most of our indigenous tongues are Bantu languages, so they have the same roots, the same origin. However, we can only understand each other partially. We can't grasp everything. So Spanish is our common language of communication. 

 
How? Spanish? Why? 

Because we were a Spanish colony for almost 200 years. Not everybody knows that. We are the only African country where Spanish is spoken. 

 
Is Spanish the official language? 

The three official languages of Equatorial Guinea are Spanish, Portuguese and French. But Spanish is the main language of education, administration, justice, television and pretty much everything. French and Portuguese are official for commercial and economic reasons, but few people speak these languages.

 
What is the Equatoguinean Spanish accent like?  

Equatoguinean Spanish is similar to the Spanish of Madrid, because most of the settlers came from there. I study in Andalusia and when I listen to Andalusians speak, I don't really identify with their accent. In other words, it's very different from my own. Conversely, when I'm in Madrid, I feel at home, ha, ha, ha. In any case, depending on the language of your ethnicity, your Spanish will have a different tone. Our native languages influence our accent in Spanish. 

 
Can you tell us some typical Equatoguinean Spanish words? 

Yes, of course. There are several such as "chapear," "pelucar," "mangueñas," "calderías," and "abacería." 

 
OK... 

Chapear" means to cut the grass. "Pelucar" is to cut the hair. We call mangoes "mangueras." "Calderías" are coins. And an "abacería" would be a bazaar.  

 
What would you recommend seeing or visiting in Equatorial Guinea? 

There are lots of things. For example, my village, ha, ha, ha. Punta Mbonda has one of the most emblematic lighthouses in the country. Other things you can visit are the cathedral of Malabo, the island of Corisco, the Ureka waterfalls and Monte Alén National Park. You can see a wide range of things. Everything is so beautiful.  

What is a typical food?  

Each ethnic group has its own dish or dishes. Possibly, a typical food all over the country is pepesup, which is a very spicy fish soup. 

What are the main economic activities in the country? 

In 1995, oil was discovered in Equatorial Guinea. So, the main economic activity is oil production. If we leave this resource aside, the country's economy is run by women. All local markets are full of female vendors selling potatoes, tomatoes and other food items. But oil sustains everything.  

 
What differences do you observe between Spain and Equatorial Guinea?  

Quite a lot. The difference between societies is enormous. Everything is different. For example, in Spain, everyone lives in their own house and has their own life. Normally, people don't know their neighbours. And if they do, it's because they've bumped into them in the lift, ha, ha, ha. In Guinea, by contrast, you meet your neighbours, you talk to them. They are practically part of the family. Also, the way people are welcomed is very different. I think Equatorial Guinea is more welcoming. We open the doors of our houses to everyone. Furthermore, in Spain you can dress as you please, whereas in my country you can be called all sorts of names if you don't dress according to the rules. Finally, in Equatorial Guinea, people don't get stressed so much. It's an "easy" country. If you go there, you'll find a calm atmosphere. 

 
How is life in Malaga? Do you like it?  

I love it! The weather and the people, above all. It has a Bata flavour.  

 
What are your plans for the future? 

I have always said that when I finish my studies, I will return home to do my bit. I think Equatorial Guinea needs me. Well, not me, but young people in general. I might stay in Spain for a couple more years, and then I will return to help in whatever way I can. My future is in Equatorial Guinea.  

 
You have a YouTube channel. Why did you open it?  

Before going to Malaga, I spent two years in Madrid studying a vocational training course. When I arrived in Madrid, I realised that many Spaniards knew almost nothing about my country. I found it very strange, because we were a Spanish colony. So, I decided to create a channel to explain Equatorial Guinea to Spaniards. Over time, I saw that many Latin Americans were interested in the subject. Right now, I am trying to create content for all Spanish speakers.  

 
Thank you very much for your availability, Monanga. We wish you the very best of luck in all your adventures!  

Thank you! You're welcome, it's been a pleasure. Greetings to all the members of the Spanish community. 

 
That's all, chaps. What are your thoughts on the interview? Do you have any questions? Any comments? Participate in this discussion topic!   

Bernat, OLS Community Manager - Spanish  

*Malabo por fotocinema