Meet Baltasar Ebang Engonga, Equatorial Guinea’s financial leader facing controversy

Baltasar Ebang Engonga, popularly known as “Bello,” is a leading figure in Equatorial Guinea’s financial sector, particularly for his role as the Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). 

He recently found himself at the heart of a significant scandal where the  authorities reportedly uncovered hundreds of explicit videos on his office computer, allegedly showing Engonga in compromising situations.

The footage includes encounters with high-profile individuals, further intensifying the controversy.

Background

Born on March 15, 1970, in Malabo, Engonga’s path to becoming one of the country’s top financial leaders reflects a life shaped by discipline, academic achievement, and a commitment to financial reform.

Raised in a family that emphasized education and hard work, Engonga excelled academically, which eventually led him to the University of Malabo, where he earned a degree in economics.

His analytical skills and commitment to excellence quickly marked him as a rising star in the financial sector.

He climbed the professional ladder swiftly, building a reputation for his knowledge of finance and dedication to reform, ultimately earning him the position of Director General at ANIF.

Professional achievements

In his role at ANIF, Engonga has spearheaded numerous financial reforms aimed at enhancing the transparency and stability of Equatorial Guinea’s economy.

His efforts have included tightening financial regulations and implementing anti-money laundering measures, which have helped boost the country’s international standing and establish a more robust financial monitoring system.

Under Engonga’s leadership, ANIF has modernized its operations, contributing to increased regulatory oversight and improved financial practices within Equatorial Guinea.

Controversies

Despite his professional successes, Engonga’s career is currently overshadowed by a major scandal that has sparked significant public and political scrutiny.

Recently, authorities discovered hundreds of explicit videos reportedly stored on Engonga’s office computer, featuring him in compromising situations with several individuals, including high-profile figures such as his brother’s wife, his cousin, and a close family member of Equatorial Guinea’s President.

The scandal surfaced amid a fraud investigation, leading to the discovery of over 300 videos depicting Engonga with multiple women, some of whom are married.

The footage, which was reportedly recorded with consent, has since been leaked online, causing a media uproar and raising serious questions about Engonga’s conduct.

In light of the scandal, Vice President Teodoro Nguema addressed the issue publicly on X (formerly Twitter), condemning inappropriate behavior within government offices.

He reaffirmed that administrative workplaces are strictly for official duties and warned that sexual relations are prohibited within these spaces.

The Vice President emphasized that control mechanisms have been enhanced to prevent future misconduct and warned that violations will result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

Private life

Baltasar Ebang Engonga is married and a  father of six children.