Strategic Adaptation or Development Diplomacy? Chinese Green Investment and Institutional Constraints in Equatorial Guinea’s Energy Transition

The West African nation of Equatorial Guinea, which has extensive natural resources, has multiple difficulties providing power supplies, building infrastructure, and developing various economic sectors. The worldwide push for green energy and sustainable development has made external influences most notable, particularly through China, which now drives the developmental paths of African nations. China's business strategies in Equatorial Guinea are evaluated by examining its green energy deployment and infrastructure development activities. A qualitative study investigates China's strategic objectives and implementation strategies and assesses prolonged development effects on Equatorial Guinea using policy document analysis, field reports, and expert interviews. Chinese investments emerge from three fundamental drivers: resource safety, geopolitical control, and Belt and Road Initiative expansion goals. Infrastructure projects delivered better connectivity and energy resources to the nation, yet governance problems, sustainability issues, and local personnel development remain unresolved. The article recommends that China guide its investments toward Equatorial Guinea's sustainable development targets because this alignment would reduce dependency and protect ecological health. The research expands knowledge on China–Africa relationships by examining Equatorial Guinea in detail and analyzing China's investment trends that reshape African development strategies.