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 |
Europe/Rome |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+2 |
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.
Maretimo is the westernmost island of the Aeolian Islands, part of the province of Trapani in Sicily. This volcanic island of about 12 square kilometers is known as "the last secret of the Mediterranean" for its unspoiled nature and crystal clear waters.
The highest point on the island, Montefalcone, is 686 meters above sea level and offers a spectacular view of the entire archipelago. The surrounding waters are protected by a marine reserve, rich in marine life and rare communities of red coral. The unique landscape of sea caves and cliffs makes it a paradise for divers.
Maretimo preserves the ruins of an ancient Roman villa and a 19th-century defensive fortress, and the island's traditional white houses contrast with the blue sea and sky. Ancient fishing traditions are maintained and freshly caught tuna and sea bass are specialties.
Ferries run to the island every summer from Trapani and Milazzo in Sicily. Due to strictly controlled development, there are only two small hotels on the island, which maintains a peaceful and escapist atmosphere for travelers seeking a pristine natural experience.