BISSAU

port city and capital of Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. It originated in 1687 as a Portuguese fortified post and slave-trading centre. In 1941 it replaced Bolama as the capital and has since developed on a northwestsoutheast axis by the Canal do Gba, a channel that offers an excellent roadstead for the largest vessels; a wharf and pier have replaced the former outdated lighterage system. Recent port improvements have included enlargement of the harbour and the installation of refrigeration units. The city also has an international airport and is the site of a small university and a research institute. Pop. (1979) 105,273.