Equatorial Guinea has changed its capital city from Malabo to Ciudad de La Paz following a presidential decree.

The plan to move the capital, which had been located on Bioko Island away from the mainland, has been under consideration for almost two decades.

President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo said the decision was taken for strategic reasons.

Another factor behind the relocation is the urban growth of Malabo, which authorities say influenced the shift to the heart of the Equatorial forest on the mainland.

According to the decree, presidential services, government agencies and public enterprises are expected to transfer from Malabo within one year.

The decree does not state whether foreign embassies will also relocate. (Arise News)