Sao Tome, Aug. 25, 2026 (Lusa) - The prime minister of Sao Tome and Principe has argued that tourism «is a vital pillar for the sustainable development» of the archipelago, which has the natural and cultural potential to become a «tourist destination of excellence» at both regional and global levels.
«In a small island nation such as ours, tourism is a vital pillar of sustainable development; it represents one of the most important sources of employment, income, foreign exchange and investment opportunities,» said Américo Ramos at a forum marking National Tourism Day, which was celebrated on Monday.
Tourism, he added, «has a unique capacity to bring together different sectors such as agriculture, transport, culture and the hospitality industry», driving economic growth in a cross-cutting and inclusive manner.
He emphasised that «São Tomé and Príncipe has more than enough potential to become a leading tourist destination at regional and global level» and that it is possible to «build a sustainable, authentic and distinctive tourist destination», with direct benefits for the economy, culture and, above all, the people.
Among these strengths, Américo Ramos highlighted the «exceptional natural and cultural heritage, exotic beaches, dense tropical forests, endemic biodiversity and renowned hospitality, which underpin a clear aptitude for nature and conservation tourism».
He also highlighted the recent designation of the entire territory of São Tomé and Príncipe as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, which reinforces the country's image «as a green, small-scale, authentic and safe destination».
Ramos emphasised that «the National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2026–2040 identifies tourism as one of the strategic sectors for economic diversification and poverty reduction, underlining the need to develop a green, inclusive and resilient growth model».
He added that the latest national report on the Tourism Satellite Account indicates that the sector contributed directly to around 11% of Gross Domestic Product and 10% of gross value added in 2024, «placing the sector amongst the main drivers of São Tomé's economy, comparable in importance to agriculture and other traditional sectors».
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