São Tomé and Príncipe has enacted a law establishing eight new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), covering approximately 93 square kilometers of coastal habitats in the Gulf of Guinea. This initiative, formalized in September 2025, represents the nation's first formal commitment to marine conservation. The MPAs are designed to promote a healthier marine environment, enhance food security, protect traditional fishing practices, and increase the archipelago's resilience to climate change impacts.
The newly designated protected areas will implement a dual zoning approach. Certain zones will be strictly restricted, prohibiting all fishing and resource collection to facilitate ecological recovery. Other areas will be designated as sustainable use zones, allowing access only for artisanal fishers using authorized gear. This balanced strategy aims to reconcile conservation goals with the livelihoods of local communities dependent on marine resources.
São Tomé and Príncipe, an island nation recognized for its rich biodiversity and as a critical biodiversity hotspot in the Gulf of Guinea, faces significant pressures on its marine and coastal environments. Threats include overfishing, habitat degradation, and the effects of climate change, such as ocean acidification and warming waters. These marine ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, food security, and local economies.
João Pessoa, the government's director of fisheries and aquaculture, stated that the designation of the MPAs is intended to protect biodiversity, ensure food security, preserve traditional fishing culture, and strengthen resilience to climate change. Pedro Ramos, a project officer at Fauna & Flora, highlighted the legal framework's significance, noting that specific laws will now restrict certain fishing activities, offering crucial protection to marine life. This initiative aligns with global conservation targets, including the “30x30” pledge to protect 30% of the planet's land and sea by 2030.
Studies on similar MPAs have shown that strict fishing restrictions can lead to increased fish biomass, with more protected areas exhibiting significantly more abundant fish populations. Communities near well-managed MPAs have reported improved wealth and food security, indicating the potential for substantial socio-economic benefits from these conservation efforts. The establishment of these MPAs marks a pivotal moment for marine conservation in São Tomé and Príncipe, paving the way for a more sustainable future.