US Visa Overhaul Impacting Equatorial Guinea: The U.S. plans to cut Africa’s visa-processing network from nearly 50 embassies/consulates to 20 regional hubs, with Malabo listed as one of the locations. The change, expected to start in June, means applicants from non-hub countries may have to travel farther for interviews and biometric steps, raising costs and potentially lengthening processing times. Oil & Gas Deal Progress: Europa Oil & Gas says its EG-08 offshore farm-out is moving forward after Equatorial Guinea’s Mining and Hydrocarbons Ministry approved a new Chinese partner. Antler Global will retain operator status with a 40% stake, while Fuhai (Beijing) takes 40% and GEPetrol holds 20%; drilling for the Barracuda-1 prospect is targeted for early 2027. Maritime Ruling With Local Relevance: An international tribunal has awarded the Marshall Islands over $14m in compensation tied to the 2022 detention of the tanker Heroic Idun by Equatorial Guinea, including payments related to crew mistreatment. Deportation Hotel Scrutiny: A report says Equatorial Guinea’s Bamy Hotel has been used as a holding site for asylum seekers deported from the U.S. under a reported $7.5m deal, with detainees alleging pressure to leave and fears of return. Cemac Liquidity Support: BEAC launched a CFA500bn liquidity injection for banks across the CEMAC region, including Equatorial Guinea, via a variable-rate auction at 4.75%.