Malabo is the capital of Equatorial Guinea and the province of Bioko Norte.
With its prime location on the northern coast of Bioko Island, formerly known as Fernando Pó, Malabo is a bustling city that harmoniously blends tradition and modernity.
Home to approximately 297,000 inhabitants, this vibrant metropolis is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and aspirations.
While Spanish serves as the official language of Malabo and the entire country, the local language, Pichinglis is the means of communication throughout Bioko Island.
As the oldest city in Equatorial Guinea, Malabo holds a wealth of historical significance. The city’s colonial architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant markets offer a glimpse into its fascinating heritage.
However, Ciudad de la Paz, a planned community under construction in mainland Equatorial Guinea, is set to replace Malabo as the country’s capital.
This strategic move aims to decentralize power and foster development in a new urban center.
Since February 2017, the institutions of governance have initiated the process of relocating to Ciudad de la Paz, marking a significant milestone in Equatorial Guinea’s growth and progress.
However, amidst the anticipation of this transition, Malabo remains a captivating destination.
Its lush landscapes, breathtaking coastal views, and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit city.
From exploring its historic landmarks to savoring the flavors of local cuisine, there is something for every curious traveler in Malabo.
History of Malabo
In the year 1821, a remarkable event took place on the island of Fernando Pó when British Captain Nelly arrived and found it deserted.
He wasted no time in establishing two settlements: Melville Bay (now Riaba) and San Carlos (now Luba).
Shortly after, Captain William Fitzwilliam Owen decided to colonize the island, setting up a naval base to combat slave trading.
On December 25, 1827, Port Clarence emerged from the ruins of a Portuguese settlement, named in honor of the Duke of Clarence.
The indigenous Bubi people referred to the settlement as Ripotó, meaning “place of the foreigners.” Port Clarence grew with the arrival of liberated slaves seeking refuge and opportunity.
They settled there before the establishment of Sierra Leone as a colony for freed slaves. The descendants of these emancipated individuals, known as the Creole or fernandinos, developed their own language called Pichinglis, blending Bantu, English, and Spanish elements.
During the time when the British ruled over Fernando Pó, the British consul also acted as the governor, bringing advancements and progress to the capital.
Governor John Beecroft, who had a mixed racial background, made a significant impact on the city’s development.
In recognition of his contributions, Spain later erected a monument in Punta Fernanda to honor him.
The history of Fernando Pó intertwines the stories of explorers, colonizers, freed slaves, and migrants from different African nations.
The diverse cultures and backgrounds of these individuals came together to form a vibrant community known as the Creole or fernandinos.
Their unique language, Pichinglis, can be said to be a testament to the island’s enduring spirit.
These significant moments in Fernando Pó’s history highlight the resilience of its people, the intricate dynamics of colonialism, and the rich blend of cultures that shape the island’s identity.
The era of the Spanish reign
In the year 1844, a significant turn of events unfolded during the reign of Queen Isabella II of Spain.
Under her rule, Spain sought to modernize and reclaim its territories, including the colony situated on the island of Fernando Pó.
This desire for direct control was conveyed to the United Kingdom, signaling Spain’s intention to regain authority over the island.
However, the process of reestablishing Spanish control would take another ten years to materialize.
During this period, notable changes were already underway in the capital city.
The presence of dynamic and successful Protestant religious missions brought about a transformation in the city’s character.
These factors, along with internal motivations, contributed to a shift in Spain’s attitude towards the colony.
Finally, in 1855, Spain officially regained control of the island, and in a symbolic gesture, the capital city of Port Clarence was renamed Santa Isabel in honor of Queen Isabella II.
This change solidified the island of Fernando Pó as the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
Fast forward to the year 1973, a time marked by President Francisco Macías Nguema’s campaign to replace European place names with African ones.
As part of this initiative, the town underwent a renaming process and emerged as Malabo, paying homage to Malabo Löpèlo Mëlaka, the last Bubi king.
Malabo, son of King Moka, had surrendered to the Spaniards, but his uncle Sas Ebuera, leader of the Bubi warriors, fiercely resisted Spanish rule, openly confronting them in 1898.
The Spanish eventually killed Sas Ebuera, leaving Malabo as the uncontested king, albeit without authority.
However, the acceptance of Spanish sovereignty by the Bubi clans and settlements on the island was gradual. It took time to achieve full conquest and pacification, a milestone that was finally reached in 1912.
Thus, the captivating journey of the island now known as Malabo unfolded through periods of colonial ambitions, cultural transformations, and the resilience of the Bubi people.
It is a story that exemplifies the complexities of history and the enduring quest for identity and sovereignty.
Tourism
The tourism sector in Equatorial Guinea is experiencing significant growth, with notable developments in infrastructure and attractions.
Since the discovery of oil, the country has invested in various improvements to cater to tourists.
The city of Malabo serves as a prominent hub for tourism in Equatorial Guinea, offering direct access to major attractions on the island of Bioko. There are several nearby destinations that attract visitors, including:
1. San Antonio de Ureca: Situated in the southern part of the island, this charming town boasts abundant wildlife, stunning beaches, and picturesque waterfalls.
From November to February, visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the nesting of leatherback sea turtles during nighttime.
2. Ilachi or Iladyi Waterfalls: These impressive waterfalls are the largest in the country, cascading over 250 meters. Located just a 45-minute walk from the city of Moka, they provide a captivating natural spectacle.
3. Pico Basilé: As the highest mountain in Equatorial Guinea, Pico Basilé stands majestically within the volcanic shield alongside Mount Cameroon and the grand caldera of Luba.
Its towering peak, reaching over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), offers breathtaking views visible from all corners of Malabo.
Atop the mountain, visitors can find a church and a statue of Mother Bisila, a remarkable sculpture created by Spanish artist Modesto Gené Roig in 1968.
4. Sipopo Luxury Resort: Initially constructed for the 2011 African Union Summit, this lavish resort has become a sought-after destination for tourists. It provides a range of amenities and a serene atmosphere for relaxation and indulgence.
With its expanding tourism industry, Equatorial Guinea offers visitors a diverse array of attractions, from the natural wonders of San Antonio de Ureca and Ilachi Waterfalls to the awe-inspiring Pico Basilé and the luxurious Sipopo Resort.
Attractions in Malabo
Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea, boasts a collection of well-preserved colonial-era buildings that offer a glimpse into its historical past.
These architectural gems include the Presidential Palace and the Palace of Justice, which stand as reminders of the city’s colonial heritage.
While some downtown buildings show signs of wear, such as the 19th-century wooden structures on Nigeria and Rey Boncoro streets, they still exude a sense of charm and character.
Among the notable buildings in Malabo is the Cathedral of Santa Isabel, belonging to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese.
Constructed in the Gothic Revival style between 1897 and 1916, the cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.
Designed by Luis Segarra Llairadó, its construction was made possible through contributions from the Spanish government and donations from the faithful.
The cathedral features two towering spires, each reaching a height of 40 meters. Unfortunately, in January 2020, a fire caused damage to part of the structure due to an electrical failure.
However, ongoing restoration efforts are currently underway, with an expected completion date in November 2021.
Other noteworthy landmarks in Malabo include La Gaditana, previously known as Finca Amilivia before 1918, and the casa Teodolita, a historic residence built in 1902 and one of the city’s oldest homes.
The City Hall building, the Church of Elá Nguema, Independence Square, the Casa de España, and the picturesque harbor bay also capture the attention of visitors.
Malabo’s array of preserved colonial buildings and architectural treasures, including the iconic Cathedral of Santa Isabel, provide a captivating backdrop for exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The administrative arm of Malabo
María Coloma Edjang Mbengono serves as the mayor of Malabo, responsible for overseeing various municipal services mandated by law.
The municipality takes charge of essential amenities, such as providing clean drinking water and managing public water sources.
Additionally, they ensure proper lighting in the city, maintain well-paved roads, manage cemeteries, and undertake cleaning and sanitation efforts.
The municipality also takes responsibility for the appropriate treatment and disposal of sanitary waste, along with disinfection measures.
In times of emergencies, they provide essential first aid services. The municipality conducts health inspections for establishments serving beverages and inspects housing conditions for the less privileged.
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They also oversee public banks, slaughterhouses, and markets, while taking necessary actions to eliminate stagnant water.
María Coloma Edjang Mbengono’s role as mayor involves ensuring that these crucial services are efficiently delivered to the residents of Malabo, contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life in the city.
Source
https://www.blackpast.org/global-african-history/malabo-equatorial-guinea-1827/
