São Tomé - 8 September 2025 – The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat has successfully concluded a Targeted Review Mission in the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, held under the theme “Tourism as an Engine of Economic Growth and Environmental Protection.” The mission took place from 24 August to 7 September 2025 and was led by Ambassador Ali Ahmed Araita, Vice-Chairperson of the APRM Panel of Eminent Persons.
The mission sought to engage national stakeholders in exploring strategies to fully unlock the country’s tourism potential, while ensuring environmental sustainability and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
In São Tomé city, the delegation held consultations with government institutions, private sector representatives, academia, civil society, and development partners, including UN agencies, to align efforts to support tourism-driven development. These engagements also extended to the districts of Lemba, Lobata, Mé-Zóchi, Caué, Cantagalo, and Água Grande, where the team met with local authorities and organisations operating across the tourism value chain.
In the Autonomous Region of Príncipe, the delegation held constructive discussions with the Regional President and local associations, focusing on opportunities to expand tourism while preserving the island’s rich biodiversity.
As part of its high-level engagements, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Dr. Ilza Maria dos Santos Amado Vaz, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Communities. The Minister commended the focus of the review and highlighted the importance of incorporating the country’s historical legacy, particularly its role in the transatlantic slave trade and its pioneering place in the global sugar cane industry, into the national tourism narrative. She expressed confidence that the review would help elevate São Tomé and Príncipe’s visibility on the international stage and attract both tourists and development partners.
The mission concluded with a meeting with the honourable Prime Minister, H.E. Américo d'Oliveira dos Ramos, during which Amb. Araita presented the preliminary findings. The Prime Minister outlined ongoing government efforts to advance the tourism sector, including improving air and sea connectivity, upgrading infrastructure, enhancing environmental protection, and investing in human capacity development.
Amb. Araita was joined by a multidisciplinary team comprising of APRM officials and experts from UNECA and local institutions. The final Targeted Review Report will be presented to the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for February 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, providing key recommendations to support inclusive economic growth, job creation, and environmental conservation through tourism.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: APRM Continental Secretariat at info@aprm-au.org.
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