Current Time in EquatorialGuinea
Time culture in Equatorial Guinea
Time culture in Equatorial Guinea
Tolerant social attitude towards time
In Equatorial Guinea, the sense of time is relatively relaxed, and it is not uncommon for meetings and gatherings to not start as scheduled. There is a tolerant atmosphere towards lateness, so plans are often changed flexibly.
Lifestyle to avoid the heat of the day
In Equatorial Guinea, due to the hot and humid climate directly under the equator, many people avoid the hot hours of the day, and activities tend to be concentrated in the early morning and evening. This has led to the rhythm of life and business being adjusted accordingly.
How time is used according to religion and events
Christianity is deeply rooted in Equatorial Guinea, and it is common to go to church on Sundays. For this reason, society as a whole is quiet on Sunday mornings, and commercial activity is limited. The schedule of religious events has a significant impact on daily life.
Equatorial Guinea's values regarding time
A sense of time that emphasizes flexibility
Rather than punctuality, flexible responses to changes in relationships and situations are emphasized. Connections with people are often prioritized over plans, and the culture focuses on "what is needed now" rather than strict schedule management.
Values that value connections with people
Conversations and relationships are often prioritized over time, and even if it does not end within the scheduled time, it is important to deepen relationships with the other person. For this reason, building trust is essential in business as well.
Different awareness of time between cities and rural areas
In urban areas, awareness of time management is increasing, especially among civil servants and businessmen, but in rural areas, the traditional relaxed sense of time remains deeply rooted. It is characterized by differences in values depending on the location.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Equatorial Guinea
Appointment times should be considered as a guideline
Many people are late for appointments by a few minutes to a few tens of minutes, and being nervous about time can cause stress. You are required to be flexible in your response.
Be aware of the opening hours of public institutions and stores
Government offices and commercial facilities may not open or close at the scheduled time, and may close without notice, so it is recommended that you check multiple times and act with plenty of time.
Delays due to traffic conditions are also expected
Due to road maintenance and traffic volume, travel may take longer than expected. Especially around the capital, Malabo, you need to plan your schedule in anticipation of morning and evening congestion.
Interesting trivia about time in Equatorial Guinea
Daylight saving time is not adopted even though it is directly on the equator
The length of day and night does not change significantly throughout the year in Equatorial Guinea, so daylight saving time is not adopted. Life continues at the same time throughout the year.
"Right now" is not always the same as "right away"
Even if someone says "I'll be there right away" or "I'm on my way now," it may actually take more than 30 minutes. This expression has a gentle nuance of "I'll be there eventually."
Church services can last a long time
Sunday services can last 2-3 hours, and the practice of faith over time is a part of everyday life. This is a glimpse of a culture that values spiritual fulfillment and is generous with its time.