Country Profile · No. 41

São Tomé and Príncipe

Capital / Admin Capital

São ToméPopulation: ~230kIndependence: 1975 (July 12)

First President

Manuel Pinto da Costa (1975–1991)Current President: Carlos Vila Nova (Serving since October 2021)Prime Minister: Patrice Trovoada

Geography & Borders

Island nation located in the equatorial Gulf of Guinea off the western coast of Central Africa, consisting of two main volcanic islands. The second-least populous sovereign African nation.

Demographics & Language

Christianity (predominantly Roman Catholic, ~80%+). Official: Portuguese language. National creoles: Forro, Angolar, Principense. Major groups: Mesticos and ethnically diverse island populations.

Economy & GDP

Agriculture (world-renowned high-grade cocoa and organic chocolate production), tourism, fishing.

Global Diaspora

1. Portugal (~30k–40k), 2. Angola (~5k), 3. Cape Verde (~2k), 4. United States (~1k–2k). U.S. Hubs (States / Cities): Massachusetts, California, Florida.

Major Conflicts

Relatively peaceful post-independence history; occasional bloodless military mutinies or attempted political coups (notably in 2003).

3 Must-See Sites

1. Pico Cão Grande (A breathtaking, needle-like volcanic plug rock tower soaring dramatically out of lush southern jungle terrain), 2. Obo National Park (Protected rainforest sanctuary covering a massive portion of the islands, home to endemic birds and orchids), 3. Historic Cocoa Plantations (Roças) (Historic colonial-era plantation estates like Roça Sundy showcasing the islands' rich spice history).

Quick Facts

Historically nicknamed the "Chocolate Islands" because it was once the world's largest producer of cocoa during the early 20th century; straddles the Equator just off the coast of Gabon.