Time Zone |
Africa/Libreville |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
America/Chicago |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC-6 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC-5 |
Bélinga is a major mining town in the Ogooué-Ivindo Province of the northeastern Gabonese Republic, located deep in the equatorial rainforest near Gabon's border with the Congo Brazzaville. The region is known for its world-class iron ore resources, with proven reserves of approximately 1 billion tons, making it one of the largest undeveloped iron ore deposits in West Africa.
Located on Gabon's inland plateau, with an average elevation of about 800 meters above sea level, Belinga has a tropical rainforest climate with an annual precipitation of more than 2,000 millimeters. It is surrounded by the Ivindo River and other waterways, and is rich in biodiversity, but has a weak infrastructure and is mainly connected to the port of Gentil by road.
Since the discovery of iron ore in the 1960s, Belinga has been considered a strategic project for the diversification of Gabon's economy. The development of the iron ore mine involves plans to build a 270-kilometer dedicated railroad and a deep-water port, which have been repeatedly postponed due to environmental assessments and investment issues. The local economy is still dominated by traditional forestry and small-scale agriculture.
The area is inhabited mainly by the Kota ethnic group, with a population of about 15,000 people. The balance between mining development and rainforest conservation is a central issue, and UNDP has been involved in sustainable development planning, and in 2023 the Gabonese government re-launched a revised development program that takes into account ecological preservation.
Apache is a small town located in Caddo County, Oklahoma, situated in the southwestern part of the state. With a population of around 1,200 residents, it embodies the close-knit community spirit typical of rural America. With a population of around 1,200 residents, it embodies the close-knit community spirit typical of rural America. Founded in the late 19th century, the town's name reflects its connection to the Apache people, who have been a part of the community since the early 19th century. Founded in the late 19th century, the town's name reflects its connection to the Apache people, who historically inhabited the region. Agriculture plays a central role in the local economy, with wheat, cotton, and cattle ranching being prominent. Known for its friendly atmosphere and annual events like the Apache Rodeo, the town offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by the scenic plains. surrounded by the scenic plains of Oklahoma. Its proximity to the Wichita Mountains and Red River also makes it a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the area's natural beauty. Its proximity to the Wichita Mountains and Red River also makes it a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the area's natural beauty.