Sao Tome and Principe Country Report
Sao Tome and Principe have remained relatively stable and peaceful since independence from Portugal in 1975. The main threat to political stability comes in the form of military coups, some of which took place in the 1980s, but these coups are generally peaceful and coups are rare. Significant impact on internal business operations. Recently discovered hydrocarbon resources attract foreign investment and offer prospects for increased stability.
Levels of criminal activity are relatively low by regional standards, although petty theft occurs in some areas of Sao Tome, particularly near busy markets, beaches, and hotels. Burglary and car theft have also occurred, but are rare. Although rare, there have been reports of financial scams and scams targeting business travelers.
São Tomé and PrÃncipe’s transportation infrastructure is generally underdeveloped, and domestic travel can be risky. Although most of the main roads are paved, many are in poor repair and secondary roads are generally unpaved, making overland travel dangerous. There are also concerns about domestic air travel due to unreliable service and frequent overbooking.
Last updated: April 12, 2022
Security
The crime rate is relatively low compared to other West African countries, but petty theft, robbery, and theft do occur. Petty theft is more common in Sao Tome and other urban areas, especially near busy markets, beaches, and hotels.
Civil unrest is rare and demonstrations are usually peaceful, although political developments, particularly on economic and development issues, can sometimes lead to unruly protests in the capital.
Last updated: May 12, 2022
Infrastructure
There are concerns about aviation safety oversight in Sao Tome and Principe, and airlines registered in the country have been banned from operating in the European Union due to safety concerns. Domestic air travel is often disrupted, with flights regularly delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Traveling in Sao Tome and Principe can be very dangerous. Most of the main roads are paved, but some roads are in poor condition and secondary roads are generally unpaved, which is a hazard for land travel across the country. Some roads are impassable due to seasonal flooding, while others are only accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles.
The country’s electricity infrastructure is underdeveloped and unreliable, and power cuts frequently. Telecommunication infrastructure such as landlines and internet access is limited and communicating with people abroad can be difficult.
Last updated: May 12, 2022
Environment
Sao Tome and Principe have a tropical climate characterized by hot and humid weather. Temperatures range from 21 °C (70 °F) to 31 °C (88 °F) throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from October to May and local flooding can make some roads impassable during this period. As an archipelagic state, São Tomé and PrÃncipe are vulnerable to sea level rise, but are in a relatively safe location and are not exposed to significant risks from tsunamis, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
Last updated: March 16, 2022
Health and Medical
Medical facilities in Sao Tome and Principe are very limited and there is only one large hospital in Sao Tome. There are many smaller clinics in other parts of the country, but the services they can offer are limited. More serious injuries and conditions require evacuation to countries with more advanced medical facilities, usually South Africa or Gabon. Pharmacies are not always readily available and do not stock many medications, including common over-the-counter medications. Malaria is prevalent throughout the country and outbreaks of infectious diseases such as cholera have also been reported.
Last updated: April 1, 2022
Political
Sao Tome and Principe is one of the most stable countries in West Africa and elections are considered free and fair. However, the military also plays an active role in politics and staged two non-violent coups in 1995 and 2003. There is considerable political conflict between the Creole elites who control society and politics on the islands.
Corruption and weak policing remain major concerns for foreign tourists in Sao Tome and Principe. The level of corruption in the country is not expected to improve in the short term, considering that the country’s political atmosphere is traditionally based on paternalism and nepotism, and considering the expected influx of foreign direct investment into the country’s hydrocarbon sector.
Last updated: March 28, 2022
