São Tomé and Príncipe prepares for elections as youth emigration challenges loom
Ahead of the elections in São Tomé and Príncipe, voters express hopes for better leadership focused on job creation to curb youth emigration. The 142,000 voters will choose among seven parties for the 55-seat National Assembly, with youth unemployment and emigration as central issues.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1) · date de l'événement : 2026-09-27
São Tomé and Príncipe is preparing for elections on Sunday, with voters expressing strong hopes for change and better leadership, according to Africanews on September 24, 2026.
The key concern among voters is how to stop the growing trend of young people leaving the country in search of opportunities abroad. Many citizens want the next government to focus on creating jobs and economic opportunities to retain the youth.
Voters from different walks of life, including students, street vendors, and drivers, emphasized the importance of the elections and their desire for a government that can lead the country to progress. However, some young people remain skeptical about the potential for change, reflecting frustration over persistent challenges.
The approximately 142,000 registered voters will select representatives from seven political parties competing for control of the 55-seat National Assembly. They will also vote in municipal and regional elections.
Emigration has surged in recent years, with a 2025 World Bank report estimating that nearly 18% of the population, about 40,000 people, live abroad. This exodus has created labor shortages in key sectors such as construction, impacting the economy.
Former Prime Minister Gabriel Da Costa highlighted these challenges, and all major parties agree on the necessity of attracting investment to stimulate growth and job creation.
The election outcome will be critical in determining how São Tomé and Príncipe addresses youth emigration and economic development moving forward.