In 2003, Sao Tome and Principe was a small island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of Central Africa. It had a population of around 200,000 people and its economy was largely driven by fishing and tourism. The country had adopted a democratic system but corruption remained an issue. According to computergees, Sao Tome and Principe maintained strong diplomatic ties with other African nations such as Nigeria and Angola while it also had close relations with Portugal. In 2003, tourism to the islands was beginning to grow as visitors were drawn to its beautiful beaches and lush rainforests. The country offered numerous attractions such as Pico Cao Grande which showcased the unique geology of the region, Ilheu das Rolas which provided opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, Lagoa Azul which offered hiking trails, and Monte Carmo Forest Reserve which protected native wildlife. Additionally, there were many opportunities for outdoor activities such as exploring Praia Jalé Beach or visiting Obo Natural Park which is home to diverse flora and fauna.
Yearbook 2003
São Tomé and Príncipe. According to Countryaah.com, São Tomé and Príncipe Independence Day is July 12. The hopes of rising billion-dollar revenues from yet-to-be-discovered oil sources have fueled politics in the small island of São Tomé and Príncipe. In January, President Fradique de Meneze announced the recent election following a conflict with Parliament over constitutional amendments, which basically involved control of the proposed oil revenues. The new election was suspended after Parliament was allowed to hold a referendum on the constitution in 2006.
In July, a group of soldiers took power while the president was abroad. Important buildings were occupied by the soldiers and several ministers were placed under house arrest. The coup makers, many of whom had a past as lego servants in South Africa during the apartheid regime, motivated the takeover of power by prevailing corruption and injustice and promised a “junta for national reconciliation”. However, President de Menezes, who accused the coup men of being out for oil money, was able to return home after a week and regain power after mediators from a large number of countries persuaded the soldiers to give up. The coup men were promised impunity and a new law gave Parliament control over the oil industry. Prime Minister Maria Das Neves Ceita Baptista de Sousa, one of them held hostage for a few days, resigned but was immediately commissioned to form a new government with partially new members.
In October, the oil dream began to come true. Bidding began in the nine offshore areas offered for exploration of São Tomé and Príncipe and Nigeria jointly. Of the expected income, 40% go to São Tomé and Príncipe. However, to the extent that oil is found, it will take several years before any production can begin.
Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe Brief Guide
According to AbbreviationFinder, São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation off the coast of Africa, a few hundred kilometers west of Gabon.
Insurance
Everyone participating in the trip must have a valid travel insurance that covers medical expenses in the event of illness or other similar need. Please check the validity of your own insurance and the terms and conditions of the insurance cancellation cover.
Please pay attention to the special nature of your trip and check the coverage of the insurance in that respect as well. In many locations, the insurance must also be valid when moving at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, in which case it also covers mountain sickness.
Many hiking or diving trips require more extensive insurance, which covers, for example, diving or moving on a glacier. Please check the contents of your insurance with your insurance company.
Vaccinations
Check the vaccination requirements at your health center or
Climate
The climate on both islands is tropical all year round. The temperature stays around 27 degrees throughout the year. In the mountains, the temperature is 20 degrees all year round and the nights are cool. The rainy season lasts from October to May.