Gabú Cotton Fields

The cotton fields of Gabú in eastern Guinea-Bissau are a testament to the country’s agricultural diversity beyond the dominance of cashews. Gabú, characterized by a drier savanna climate, gives convenient conditions for growing cotton (Gossypium), which has traditionally played a vital role here. During the colonial era, cotton was a strategic export, and today it remains an important cash crop for many smallholder farms of the Fula people. The vast white fields during harvest time are a striking image of the region. Cotton production is closely linked to artisanal weaving; in the villages around Gabú, one still finds traditional looms where the famous 'Panu di Pinti' are made, elaborate fabrics worn on ceremonial occasions. Cotton from Gabú represents the connection between agriculture and craft tradition. Despite competition from cheap imports on the global market, local cooperatives struggle to maintain this sector, which not only generates income but also preserves a deeply rooted cultural heritage. A visit to the cotton regions has insight into the hard working conditions in the fields and the pride of the weavers who create true works of art from the local fiber.

Nearby cities

Gabú

Gabú is the largest city in eastern Guinea-Bissau and a key trading hub near the borders with Guinea and Senegal.

Madina do Boe

Madina do Boe is a historically significant settlement in southeastern Guinea-Bissau.

Pitche

Pitche is a town in the far east of Guinea-Bissau, near the border with the Republic of Guinea.

Pirada

Pirada is a border town in northeastern Guinea-Bissau, in the Gabú region.

Sonaco

Sonaco is a town in the Gabú region of eastern Guinea-Bissau.

Buruntuma

Buruntuma is a settlement at the easternmost border of Guinea-Bissau with Guinea.

History & landmarks

Great Mosque of Gabú

A prominent religious building in the city of Gabú, a center of Islam in eastern Guinea-Bissau.

Catholic Church of Gabú

A significant Christian place of worship in Gabú, reflecting the religious plurality in the eastern region of the country.

Nature

Corubal River

The Corubal River originates in Guinea and forms spectacular rapids and waterfalls in eastern Guinea-Bissau.

More places

Ruins of Kansalá

Kansalá was the fortified capital of the Kaabu Empire, a powerful Mandinka state that dominated large parts of the region.

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Gabú Plateau

The Gabú Plateau in the east is a dry upland area marking the transition to the Sahelian zone of West Africa.

Dulombi Forest

Dulombi National Park in the east of the country is a mosaic of forests and savannas.

Boé Plateau

The Boé Plateau is a rocky and hilly region in the southeast, contrasting sharply with the country's flat coastal plains.

Boe Bauxite Deposit

A significant mining project in the southeast of the country to develop high-quality bauxite reserves for aluminum production.

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Independence Site of Madina do Boé

At this remote site in southeastern Guinea-Bissau, independence from Portugal was unilaterally declared on September 24, 1973.

Boé Hills

The Boé Hills represent the highest elevations in Guinea-Bissau.

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Mount Mocende

Mount Mocende is the highest point in Guinea-Bissau, standing at approximately 300 meters in the hilly southeastern part of the country.