Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima (born 1972) is a prominent Equatoguinean politician and a key figure in the country’s ruling family. As the younger son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, he has long been viewed as the “technocratic” face of the regime, particularly in managing the nation’s critical energy sector.
Key Biographical Information
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima |
| Born | November 2, 1972, Mongomo, Equatorial Guinea |
| Parents | Teodoro Obiang (Father) and Celestina Lima (Mother) |
| Current Role | Minister of Finance, Economy and Planning (Since February 2023) |
| Former Role | Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons (2012–2023) |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Economics (Alma College, Michigan, USA) |
| Brother | Teodorín Nguema Obiang Mangue (Half-brother and Vice President) |
The “Oil Czar” and OPEC Leadership
Gabriel Obiang Lima spent over two decades as the most influential figure in Equatorial Guinea’s oil and gas industry, which accounts for the vast majority of the country’s GDP.
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Energy Architect: He oversaw the country’s emergence as a major player in the global energy market. He was instrumental in launching the “Gas Mega Hub” project in Bioko, aimed at processing gas from across the Gulf of Guinea.
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Global Influence: In 2023, he served as the President of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries), a role that elevated his international profile as a primary spokesperson for African energy interests.
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Reputation: Unlike his half-brother Teodorín, who is known for his legal troubles and flamboyant lifestyle, Gabriel is often described by foreign investors as a pragmatic, Western-educated, and professional interlocutor.
Shift to Finance and Economy (2023–2025)
In early 2023, President Obiang reshuffled his cabinet, moving Gabriel from the Ministry of Mines to the Ministry of Finance, Economy, and Planning.
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Mission: His current mandate focuses on economic diversification, a critical task as Equatorial Guinea’s oil production has begun a steady natural decline.
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2025 Strategy: Throughout late 2025, he has been a vocal advocate for regional energy infrastructure. He currently serves as the President of the Strategic Partnerships and Financing Committee for the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS), a project aimed at linking the oil and gas networks of several Central African nations.
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Business Initiatives: He recently founded Bioko Consulting, an investment advisory firm, reflecting his continued influence in the private sector alongside his ministerial duties.
The Succession Rivalry
Gabriel’s political career is often viewed through the lens of a long-standing “silent rivalry” with his older half-brother, Teodorín.
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Contrast in Styles: While Teodorín (son of First Lady Constancia Mangue) has the backing of the military and the traditional party base, Gabriel is often preferred by the international business community and those within the administration seeking a more stable, technocratic future.
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Current Standing: Despite rumors of friction, Gabriel has publicly remained loyal to the family dynasty. His move to the Finance Ministry is seen by some analysts as a way to provide him with broader administrative experience, while others view it as a way for the First Lady’s faction to consolidate control over the lucrative oil ministry.
Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima remains one of the most capable and closely watched figures in Central Africa, holding the keys to the economic transition of one of the continent’s wealthiest—yet most unequal—nations.