Sao Tome and Principe Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Sao Tome and Principe, the state off the West African coast; 1,000 km², 211 000 residents (2019).São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the equator outside Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, consist of the two main islands of São Tomé and Príncipe as well as some smaller islands. The capital is São Tomé (67 900 residents, 2012).

Country facts

Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe / São Tomé and Príncipe Democratic Republic
Country abbreviation: ST
Area: 1 000 km²
Population (2019): 211,000 residents
Capital: São Tomé
Main languages: Portuguese
State: Republic
Head of State: Evaristo Carvalho (President)
Head of Government: Jorge Bom Jesus
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 2,001
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1 890
Currency unit: 1 dobra = 100 cêntimos
Currency code: STD
Country number (telephony): 239
Internet domain name: st
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: July 12 (Independence Day, 1975)

Nature

Land use: agricultural land (54%), other (46%)
Highest mountain: Pico de São Tomé (2,024 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 211 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.0%; birthrate 26 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (28%), 15-64 (69%), 65- (3%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 65 years, women 71 years
Infant mortality (2019): 33 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 400,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.589 (place 143 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 68%
Most populous city (2012): São Tomé (67 900 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (12%), industry (15%), service (73%)
Export (2017): US $ 16 million
Main export product: cocoa
Main exporting countries: Guyana, Germany, Portugal
Imports (2017): US $ 128 million
Main import products: capital goods, food, fuel
Main importing countries: Portugal, Angola
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of São Tomé and Príncipe

Location and Size

São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, off the coast of Central Africa. The country is situated near the equator, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) off the coast of Gabon, to the west of the African mainland. São Tomé, the larger of the two main islands, and Príncipe, its smaller counterpart, are the core of the nation. São Tomé covers an area of 859 square kilometers (331 square miles), and Príncipe spans approximately 142 square kilometers (55 square miles), making São Tomé and Príncipe the second smallest African country by area.

The islands lie in the tropical belt, known for their lush, vibrant landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The capital city, São Tomé, is located on the island of São Tomé and serves as the cultural, political, and economic center of the country.

Topography and Natural Features

The country’s topography is largely mountainous, with volcanic origins. The islands are characterized by steep, forested hills, volcanic craters, and fertile valleys. São Tomé Island is dominated by the Pico de São Tomé, which rises to 2,024 meters (6,640 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak in the country. The islands’ volcanic origins contribute to the rich soil, making the land fertile for agriculture. The dense rainforests that cover much of the country are home to unique flora and fauna, contributing to the biodiversity of the islands.

São Tomé and Príncipe’s coastlines feature rocky shores, sandy beaches, and a variety of coral reefs, providing rich marine biodiversity. The marine ecosystem supports fishing activities, which is a crucial part of the local economy. Príncipe Island is less populated and is known for its more pristine natural environment, with unspoiled beaches and a variety of protected natural reserves. The islands’ geographical location near the equator results in abundant sunlight, creating an ideal environment for agriculture, particularly for crops like cocoa and coffee.

Climate of São Tomé and Príncipe

Tropical Climate

São Tomé and Príncipe experiences a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons influenced by its location near the equator. The climate is characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F), with little variation between the seasons. The islands’ mountainous terrain, however, creates microclimates, with the higher altitudes being cooler and wetter compared to the coastal areas.

Rainfall and Seasons

The wet season in São Tomé and Príncipe runs from October to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between March and May. During this period, the islands experience frequent showers, which can sometimes lead to flooding in certain areas. The wet season contributes to the lush vegetation and tropical rainforests that characterize the islands’ landscape. The dry season lasts from June to September and is marked by lower humidity and reduced rainfall. The dry season, particularly in July and August, can bring slightly cooler temperatures, making it a more pleasant time for outdoor activities.

São Tomé and Príncipe is located outside the primary path of Atlantic hurricanes, which significantly reduces its vulnerability to major tropical storms. However, the country can still experience tropical storms that impact the islands’ infrastructure, especially during the rainy season. The combination of rainfall and abundant sunlight supports the country’s agricultural practices, making it one of the more agriculturally productive nations in Africa despite its small size.

People of São Tomé and Príncipe

Population and Demographics

São Tomé and Príncipe has a population of approximately 220,000 people, making it one of the least populous countries in Africa. The population is concentrated on the two main islands, with the majority residing on São Tomé Island, particularly in the capital city. São Tomé, the largest city, is home to a significant portion of the population, while the island of Príncipe is much less populated, with only a few thousand inhabitants.

The country’s population is ethnically diverse, with most people of African descent, particularly of Bantu origin. The island’s history of colonization has also led to the presence of smaller communities of Portuguese, European, and mixed-race individuals. Over time, the cultural mix has led to a rich, unique blend of African and Portuguese influences. The majority of the population speaks Portuguese, the official language, though there are also several local languages, including Forro, Angolar, and Principense, which are used in daily life, especially in rural areas.

Language and Religion

Portuguese is the official language of São Tomé and Príncipe and is used for government, education, and business. However, several local creole languages are spoken by the majority of the population. These creoles are influenced by Portuguese but incorporate elements of African languages, particularly from the Bantu-speaking regions. The most widely spoken creoles are Forro, Angolar, and Principense. These languages are often used in informal communication and are a significant part of the country’s cultural heritage.

The predominant religion in São Tomé and Príncipe is Christianity, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic. Catholicism was introduced to the islands during Portuguese colonial rule, and the country retains strong Catholic traditions, with churches playing an essential role in daily life. Protestantism is also practiced, particularly by the smaller evangelical and Pentecostal communities. There are a small number of followers of indigenous African religions, but they represent a minority in the country.

Education and Health

Education in São Tomé and Príncipe is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 14. The country has made significant progress in improving literacy rates, which are relatively high by African standards. The education system is modeled on the Portuguese system and is primarily conducted in Portuguese. However, the use of local languages in schools is also encouraged, particularly in the early years of education, to ensure better comprehension and retention of material. The literacy rate is over 90%, which is a sign of the country’s dedication to education.

Healthcare in São Tomé and Príncipe has improved over the years, with the government working to strengthen both public health systems and infrastructure. There is a network of public health clinics, and the country has one central hospital in the capital city, with smaller hospitals serving rural areas. However, access to healthcare is still limited, especially in the more remote areas of the islands. Sanitation and clean water access have been significant focus areas for development, with international organizations assisting in the improvement of the country’s health sector.

Economy of São Tomé and Príncipe

Key Industries

The economy of São Tomé and Príncipe is primarily based on agriculture, with cocoa being the country’s most important export. São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the world’s top producers of high-quality cocoa beans, which play a central role in the country’s economy and exports. Coffee is also an important agricultural product, although its production has decreased in recent years due to various challenges, including aging infrastructure and market competition.

Agriculture remains the primary livelihood for the majority of the population, with other crops such as bananas, coconuts, and cassava being cultivated for both local consumption and export. The government has encouraged the diversification of agriculture, including organic farming, to reduce the country’s dependence on a few crops and improve food security.

Tourism is another growing sector of the economy. The country’s stunning natural landscapes, including its volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and marine biodiversity, make it an attractive destination for ecotourism. The government has been promoting sustainable tourism, which could serve as a key driver of future economic growth. International visitors often come for hiking, birdwatching, diving, and cultural experiences.

Economic Challenges

Despite its natural resources and potential for tourism, São Tomé and Príncipe faces several significant economic challenges. The country has a small domestic market and limited infrastructure, which restricts the potential for large-scale industrialization or diversification. The economy remains highly dependent on agriculture and vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices, particularly in cocoa and coffee markets.

Additionally, São Tomé and Príncipe faces challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and income inequality. The country has made efforts to improve social services and infrastructure, but a significant portion of the population still lives below the poverty line. The government has worked to secure international aid and loans for development projects, but the small size and resource constraints make it difficult for the country to generate substantial economic growth on its own.

Government of São Tomé and Príncipe

Political System

São Tomé and Príncipe is a multi-party republic with a political system based on democratic principles. The country’s political system is structured with three main branches of government: the executive, legislative, and judiciary. The President of São Tomé and Príncipe serves as the head of state and is elected for a five-year term. The president’s role is primarily ceremonial, though they do hold significant power, particularly in the areas of foreign policy and national defense.

The head of government is the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President and is responsible for running the day-to-day affairs of the government. The Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers, which includes ministers responsible for various departments of government. The legislative branch, known as the National Assembly, is a unicameral body consisting of 55 members who are elected by the people for a five-year term. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government’s activities.

São Tomé and Príncipe has a multiparty system, with various political parties, including the Democratic Movement of São Tomé and Príncipe (MDSTP) and the Independent Democratic Action (ADI), competing for power. The country’s democratic system has been relatively stable, though it has faced some political tensions, particularly regarding governance and economic policies.

Legal System

The legal system of São Tomé and Príncipe is based on the civil law tradition, influenced by Portuguese law due to the country’s colonial history. The judiciary is independent and is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the laws of the country. The highest court in the country is the Supreme Court of Justice, which oversees lower courts and plays an important role in upholding the rule of law.

The country has a legal framework that addresses issues such as property rights, business regulations, and personal freedoms, though enforcement can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. Efforts have been made to improve the legal infrastructure and ensure that laws are applied fairly and effectively across the country. Corruption and inefficient legal processes have been areas of concern, but the government has been working with international organizations to implement judicial reforms.

Culture of São Tomé and Príncipe

Arts and Music

Sao Tomean culture is a blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences, resulting in a unique and vibrant artistic expression. Music plays a central role in the lives of the people of São Tomé and Príncipe, with traditional genres such as “tchiloli” (a form of drama) and “são-tomense” (a mix of rhythms influenced by Portuguese and African music) being popular. The most distinctive music genres are influenced by the rhythms of Angola, the Congo, and other African traditions, as well as Portuguese folk music.

São Tomé and Príncipe also has a strong tradition of literature, with works often exploring themes of identity, independence, and the natural beauty of the islands. Local writers, poets, and playwrights contribute to the country’s literary culture, and many works are available in both Portuguese and local creole languages.

Festivals and Traditions

São Tomé and Príncipe’s festivals celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage, combining African, Portuguese, and Christian influences. One of the most important events is the Independence Day celebrations, held on July 12th, which commemorate the country’s independence from Portugal in 1975. Other notable cultural celebrations include religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as local festivals such as the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, a Catholic feast day.

Music, dancing, and processions are key features of these celebrations, and they offer an opportunity for people to come together and express their cultural pride. The “Carnaval” festival, similar to carnival celebrations in other parts of the world, is another major event, featuring parades, music, and performances.

Cuisine

Sao Tomean cuisine reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences and abundant natural resources. Local dishes are often based on fish, rice, beans, and tropical fruits such as bananas, papayas, and coconuts. A staple dish is “calulu,” a fish and vegetable stew made with palm oil, okra, and spices. “Xerém,” a cornmeal-based dish, and “tacaca,” a stew made with fish and vegetables, are also commonly served.

Cocoa plays a key role in the cuisine of São Tomé and Príncipe, both as an export product and as an ingredient in local sweets and desserts. The island is known for its fine chocolate, and cocoa is central to the country’s agricultural economy. The cuisine, characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients, reflects the rich cultural heritage and tropical environment of São Tomé and Príncipe.

History of São Tomé and Príncipe

Early History and Portuguese Colonization

São Tomé and Príncipe was discovered by Portuguese explorers in the late 15th century and was subsequently colonized by Portugal. The islands were initially uninhabited, and the Portuguese settlers established sugar plantations, utilizing enslaved Africans brought to the islands. The islands became a major center for the slave trade and the sugar industry in the 16th century, and the economy was heavily reliant on the labor of enslaved people.

Path to Independence

In the 20th century, the islands experienced growing political movements for independence. The struggle for independence was shaped by both African nationalist movements and the global decolonization wave that swept across Africa in the 1960s and 1970s. São Tomé and Príncipe finally achieved independence from Portugal on July 12, 1975, becoming a sovereign state.

Post-Independence and Modern Development

After independence, São Tomé and Príncipe went through a period of political instability, but it gradually transitioned to a stable democratic system. The country has faced challenges, including poverty, reliance on foreign aid, and vulnerability to global economic fluctuations. However, the country has made significant progress in improving its infrastructure, literacy, and healthcare. Today, São Tomé and Príncipe is one of Africa’s least-developed nations but continues to grow and modernize, striving to balance preservation of its cultural heritage with the pressures of modernization and global integration.