The institutional landscape of Equatorial Guinea has reached a historic stage. By a law promulgated on January 2, 2026 , President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo formalized the transfer of the political capital: Malabo gives way to Djibloho , now named "Ciudad de la Paz" (City of Peace).

The reasons for a strategic transfer

This move to the continental heart of the country addresses three major challenges identified by the authorities:

1. Urban decongestion: Malabo, located on the island of Bioko, suffers from demographic saturation and geographical constraints limiting its expansion.
2. Territorial rebalancing: The government wishes to reduce disparities between Bioko Island and the mainland by decentralizing administrative functions.
3. Increased accessibility: Djibloho's central location facilitates connections with all provinces of the country, unlike the relative isolation of the former capital.

Djibloho: A modern city emerging from the forest

Formerly known as Oyala, this new city is the result of massive investments from oil revenues of the last twenty years.

Features	Details
Area	More than 30,000 hectares
Current population	Approximately 70,000 inhabitants
Location	140 km from Bata (economic capital)
Key infrastructure	Grand Hotel Djibloho, University of Oyala, ministerial complexes

An engine for national development

For the Equatorial Guinean government, Ciudad de la Paz must not be a mere administrative center, but a driver of growth . By relocating the seat of government, the state hopes to attract new economic activity and create jobs in a region that has long remained marginalized.

However, the challenge remains significant: ensuring a smooth administrative transition without paralyzing public services, while proving the long-term economic viability of this monumental project.