Can These Tiny Islands Teach You the Secrets of Resilience Against Crushing Waves?
Islanders in São Tomé and Príncipe Face Multiple Challenges
The islanders in São Tomé and Príncipe, a small island state in the Gulf of Guinea, are facing a multitude of challenges including climate change, the impacts of COVID-19 on tourism, and rising fuel and food costs. These challenges have threatened the livelihoods of the island communities and pushed them to find innovative ways to cope and build resilience.
Building Resilience with IDA-Financed Projects
Two IDA-financed projects in São Tomé and Príncipe are making a tangible difference in the lives of the islanders by helping them cope with the challenges they face today and plan for a better tomorrow. These projects focus on increasing resilience and reducing poverty through physical investments and social protection programs.
Physical Investments in Coastal Infrastructure
The International Development Association (IDA) has financed physical investments in 12 artisanal fishing communities on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. These investments include the construction of breakwaters, seawalls, road rehabilitation, and safer housing for those exposed to storm surges and rising tides. Lighthouses have also been renovated and equipped with solar-powered technology, providing a safer environment for the fishing communities.
Social Protection Programs
Under the IDA-financed social protection project, vulnerable mothers in São Tomé and Príncipe receive bi-monthly cash transfers on the condition that they keep their children in school. This program has been expanded to provide temporary emergency support to those affected by COVID-19 lockdowns. The program aims to protect the most vulnerable from the impacts of rising food and fuel prices.
Lessons in Resilience from the Islanders
The islanders of São Tomé and Príncipe have faced hardships throughout their history and have developed innovative strategies to cope and thrive. Here are a few examples:
Dependence on GPS for Safety at Sea
With the help of GPS devices provided through the IDA-financed projects, fishermen in São Tomé and Príncipe can navigate safely in deep waters and avoid the dangers of losing sight of land. The use of GPS has significantly reduced the number of casualties at sea.
Economic Diversification and Business Training
Some islanders, like Cesaltina de Sousa, have diversified their sources of income to weather economic uncertainties. Cesaltina, a fish vendor, has learned to salt and dry fish to prevent spoilage and ensure a steady income even during lean seasons. Business training provided by the social protection project has helped her manage her stock and plan for the future.
Investing in Sustainable Tourism
The tourism sector in São Tomé and Príncipe has been a significant contributor to the economy. To attract tourists and ensure the sustainability of the sector, further investments in coastal protection, hospitality, and travel infrastructure are needed. Plans are underway to integrate sustainable tourism in future projects, which would create more opportunities for the local communities.
The Resilience of the Islanders
The small island communities of São Tomé and Príncipe have proven their resilience against crushing waves and multiple challenges. Through innovative projects and initiatives, they have built the necessary tools and skills to cope with adversity and thrive. Their experiences and lessons can serve as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges around the world.