John Adoyi
As Nigeria marks 63 years anniversary of her independence from British rule on October 1, she finds herself in the company of several nations across the globe that also celebrate their freedom from colonisation in the month of October.
It’s not just in one part of the world—Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe all have countries that mark their independence in October.
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As Nigeria celebrates, let’s talk about five other countries that gained independence this month and their major source of income and economic growth.
1. Equatorial Guinea – October 12
Equatorial Guinea is a country, located in the Western region of Africa. After pressure from Nationalists, Spain granted the country independence on October 12. Oil is the major source of income for Equatorial Guinea. Oil revenues account for about two-thirds of government revenue with other industries like Agriculture following far behind. This is the third largest producer of oil in Africa.
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2. Guinea: Guinea – October 2
Guinea, a country located in West Africa, gained independence from France on October 2, 1958. Agriculture alongside Guinea’s natural resources like Bauxite, and iron ore contribute largely to the country’s annual income. Guinea holds the world’s largest reserve of bauxite which is needed to make aluminum.
3. Lesotho – October 4
Lesotho, officially known as the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a landlocked country located in the southern part of Africa. It is completely surrounded by South Africa, making it an enclave within that country. Lesotho gained its independence from British colonial rule on October 4, 1966. Prior to independence, it was known as Basutoland and was a British protectorate. Lesotho’s economy is largely based on agriculture, textiles, mining, and remittances.
4. Uganda – October 9
Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa. Uganda gained its independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962. With its economy predominantly based on agriculture, Uganda is a major exporter of coffee, tea, and other agricultural products. Coffee, in particular, is a significant contributor to Uganda’s export earnings.
5. Zambia – October 24
Zambia is a landlocked country located in southern Africa. It gained independence from British colonial rule on October 24, 1964. Prior to independence, it was known as Northern Rhodesia, a British protectorate. Zambia’s economy relies significantly on copper mining, making copper its major source of revenue. The country is one of the largest copper producers in Africa and the world. Zambia gains over $5 billion Dollars annually from copper exports.
So as you celebrate Nigeria today, remember other countries in Africa who also will celebrate freedom this month.
Happy 63rd Independence Nigeria.
