Príncipe pedals towards a sustainable future with 14 electric bicycles
newspaper TÉLA Nón · 22/10/2025
The Autonomous Region of Príncipe is seeing a pilot sustainable mobility project implemented, with the introduction of 14 electric bicycles, as part of the AfroSmartSpot initiative.
The project, implemented by Efrican and funded by Portuguese Cooperation, through the Environmental Fund of Portugal’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy, represents a new boost for the sustainable development of the region, recognised as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The ceremony to hand over the bicycles to the Regional Secretariat for Biosphere, Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development, represented by Regional Secretary Júlio Pereira Mendes, took place on 17 October in the town of Santo António, attended by President Filipe Nascimento and other members of the Regional Government, as well as the Regional Legislative Assembly.
The event was also attended by the Embassy of Portugal in São Tomé and Príncipe, represented by Dr Paula Pereira, Director of the Portuguese Cooperation Centre, as well as the Efrican team.
“For us, in Portuguese Cooperation, it is always a real pleasure to support Príncipe Island,” said Paula Pereira.
“This is a very important step for sustainability and for a paradigm shift,” said Ivo Pizarro, head of Efrican.
Three solar charging stations were also inaugurated, spread across the town of Santo António.
“On behalf of the Regional Government, I express our wish to continue with new and innovative projects,” declared Filipe Nascimento.