Sao Tome and Principe Location : Western Africa, islands in the Gulf of Guinea, straddling the Equator, west of Gabon
Capital City : Sao Tome
Curreny : dobra (STD)
Languages Spoken : Portuguese (official)
Climate : tropical; hot, humid; one rainy season (October to May)
National Holiday : Independence Day, 12 July (1975)
Background Information
Discovered and claimed by Portugal in the late 15th century, the islands' sugar-based economy gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century - all grown with plantation slave labor, a form of which lingered into the 20th century. Although independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were not instituted until the late 1980s. The first free elections were held in 1991.
Geographical Note
the smallest country in Africa; the two main islands form part of a chain of extinct volcanoes and both are fairly mountainous
Economy
This small poor island economy has become increasingly dependent on cocoa since independence 26 years ago. However, cocoa production has substantially declined because of drought and mismanagement. The resulting shortage of cocoa for export has created a persistent balance-of-payments problem. Sao Tome has to import all fuels, most manufactured goods, consumer goods, and a substantial amount of food. Over the years, it has been unable to service its external debt and has had to depend on concessional aid and debt rescheduling. Sao Tome benefited from $200 million in debt relief in December 2000 under the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) program. Sao Tome's success in implementing structural reforms has been rewarded by international donors, who have pledged increased assistance in 2001. Considerable potential exists for development of a tourist industry, and the government has taken steps to expand facilities in recent years. The government also has attempted to reduce price controls and subsidies. Sao Tome is also optimistic that substantial petroleum discoveries are forthcoming in its territorial waters in the oil-rich waters of the Gulf of Guinea. Corruption scandals continue to weaken the economy.
Religions
Christian 80% (Roman Catholic, Evangelical Protestant, Seventh-Day Adventist)
Ports : Santo Antonio, Sao Tome
International Disputes - Risks to travellers
: none
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Sao Tome and Principe
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