São tomé and príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe

Official name	Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
Common name	São Tomé and Príncipe
Motto
Anthem
Flag
Coat of arms
Capital	São Tomé
Largest city	São Tomé
Government	Unitary semi-presidential republic
Legislature

Geography

São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa. It consists of two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, which are part of a volcanic mountain range. The islands are situated about 140 kilometers apart and are approximately 250 and 225 kilometers, respectively, off the northwestern coast of Gabon.

Climate

The climate of São Tomé and Príncipe is tropical, with a hot and humid environment. The islands experience a wet season from October to May and a dry season from June to September. The average annual temperature is around 27°C (80°F), with little variation throughout the year.

Topography

The islands are characterized by rugged terrain, with the highest peak being Pico de São Tomé, which rises to 2,024 meters (6,640 feet) above sea level. The landscape is lush and green, with dense rainforests covering much of the islands.

History

The islands of São Tomé and Príncipe were uninhabited before their discovery by Portuguese explorers in the late 15th century. São Tomé was discovered in 1470 and Príncipe in 1471. The islands were colonized by the Portuguese, who established sugar plantations using enslaved Africans.

Colonial Era

During the colonial period, São Tomé and Príncipe became a significant center for sugar production, and later, cocoa and coffee became the main export crops. The islands were administered as a single colony by the Portuguese until they gained independence in 1975.

Independence

São Tomé and Príncipe achieved independence on July 12, 1975. The country initially adopted a one-party socialist system but transitioned to a multi-party democracy in the early 1990s.

Politics

São Tomé and Príncipe is a semi-presidential representative democratic republic. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government.

Government Structure

The government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The National Assembly is the legislative body, and its members are elected by popular vote.

Economy

The economy of São Tomé and Príncipe is primarily based on agriculture, with cocoa being the most important crop. Other significant agricultural products include coffee, copra, and palm kernels.

Natural Resources

The country has limited natural resources, but there is potential for oil exploration in the Gulf of Guinea. Tourism is also a growing sector, with the islands' natural beauty and biodiversity attracting visitors.

Demographics

The population of São Tomé and Príncipe is predominantly of African descent, with a mix of various ethnic groups. The official language is Portuguese, and the majority of the population practices Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination.

Culture

The culture of São Tomé and Príncipe is a blend of African and Portuguese influences. Music and dance are integral parts of the cultural expression, with traditional rhythms and instruments being popular.

Cuisine

The cuisine of São Tomé and Príncipe is rich and diverse, featuring a variety of seafood, tropical fruits, and spices. Dishes often include fish, beans, and rice, with flavors influenced by Portuguese and African culinary traditions.

Biodiversity

The islands are home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, with many endemic species. The Obô Natural Park on São Tomé is a protected area that preserves the unique ecosystems of the islands.

See also

• List of Presidents of São Tomé and Príncipe
• Economy of São Tomé and Príncipe
• Geography of São Tomé and Príncipe