Equatorial Guinea Relocates Their Capital

By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 4th January, 2026

Equatorial Guinea has officially relocated its capital city from Malabo to Ciudad de la Paz, also known as Djibloho or Oyala, via a presidential decree signed by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on January 3, 2026. The new capital, situated in the Djibloho province on the mainland, is expected to accommodate approximately 200,000 residents.

This strategic move aims to promote regional balance, enhance national security, and reduce the dominance of coastal cities. The construction of Ciudad de la Paz, which began in 2015, is designed to create a modern administrative and political center, featuring government buildings, residential areas, commercial zones, and cultural institutions. The city is envisioned to be sustainable and self-sufficient, with a focus on renewable energy.

The relocation process is anticipated to take one year, although it remains unclear whether embassies will also relocate to the new capital. Ciudad de la Paz is a key component of Equatorial Guinea’s efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil.