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Participação de S.Tomé e Príncipe na EXPO 2025
1. GENERAL FRAMEWORK
On the theme “Sustainable Living” Preserving Nature, Uniting Cultures, São Tomé and Príncipe was presented at yet another edition of the Universal Exhibition, EXPO 2025, which has been taking place in the Japanese city of Osaka since 13 April and will run until 13 October this year. According to statistical data provided by the event’s organisers, our pavilion has registered an average of around 17,000 daily visitors, which represents approximately 17% of the Expo’s total visitors. This figure far exceeds our initial expectations, which pointed to an influx of between 10% and 12% of the total number of visitors. If this trend continues, it is estimated that more than 3,000,000 people will visit the São Tomé and Príncipe pavilion by the end of the event.
In the context of the countries included in the common pavilion, the space dedicated to São Tomé and Príncipe has stood out, both for its visual presentation and for the information content provided. The pavilion offers a comprehensive portrait of the diversity and richness of our country, highlighting its potential in several areas, namely culture, tourism, environment and sustainable development. Among the elements that have contributed most to this visibility, the care taken with visual communication in Japanese, including information materials and pamphlets, as well as the presence of staff fluent in Japanese, which facilitates interaction with the local public.
Another distinctive factor has been the standardisation of the team in the pavilion, a practice observed only in a few pavilions at Expo, and which conveys organisation, identity and professionalism. The thematic approach of the pavilion is global and integrated, so that no one theme is favoured over another — all the content and messages presented have been valued in a collective and balanced way, contributing to the good image and positive impact of São Tomé and Príncipe's participation in Expo 2025 Osaka.
2.THE PAVILION OF S. TOMÉ AND
PRINCIPE
2.1. Entrance and Reception
Upon entry, visitors are welcomed at a service desk, where a qualified team provides information, distributes institutional materials and guides the visit. This starting point symbolises the spirit of hospitality that characterises the people of São Tomé — marked by human warmth, openness and generosity in welcoming.
2.2. Central Panel – The Landmark of
Equator: At the Center of the World
In this central core, the drawing of the Marco do Equador, as found on Ilhéu das Rolas, is replicated on the floor, accompanied by a representation of the respective monument. Around it, there are traditional benches with baskets containing illustrations and literary material by authors from São Tomé.
Our Team – From left to right: Hamilton
Cruz (General Commissioner), Elisa Barros (Pavilion Director), Wiscilaya Semedo (Volunteer), Amarilho Santos (Technician), Katy Nascimento (Volunteer) and Adelino Semedo (Technician)
This panel conveys a powerful message:
a country that in the past was a trading and slavery hub, today symbolizes a bridge
between cultures.
2.3. Right Side Panel –
Culture and Biodiversity
Artist Panel: Rotating exhibitions by five São Toméan artists and sculptors, culminating in a showcase on the Txiloli, a candidate for UNESCO intangible heritage, curated by René Tavares. Panel on the preservation of sea turtles: Highlights conservation and preservation initiatives for this marine species, as well as the impact on local communities. Panel on the Príncipe Biosphere Reserve: Highlights the work of the Príncipe Foundation and its recognition by UNESCO.
Sustainable Living
Preserving Nature, Uniting Cultures
Visual Elements and Tributes:
Conceição Lima: An internationally renowned poet, Conceição Lima has elevated São Toméan literature to new heights, giving voice to the country’s memory and identity. The pavilion features a large print of her poem “o uterus da casa” (the uterus of the house), as well as a presentation of her work in translated versions, allowing visitors from all over the world to discover the depth of her writing.
Alpes de Floripes: A tribute to this iconic cultural manifestation of Príncipe Island.
2.4.Left Side Panel – The
Cocoa and Coffee Plantations
Historical, economic and touristic approach to the plantations, from the colonial period to the present day. Highlighting producers and brands that operate in a sustainable and innovative way. Exhibition of processed products (chocolates, liqueurs, vanilla pepper, palm and coconut oil, etc.). Tribute to João Carlos Silva: An essential figure in São Toméan culture, João Carlos Silva is internationally recognized for the program “Na Roça com os Tachos”, through which he has promoted the plantations as living spaces of our identity. His work combines culture, gastronomy, heritage and ecology, becoming one of the most relevant pillars in the valorization and projection of the cultural heritage of São Tomé and Príncipe.
2.5.The Typical House and the "Baixo de Casa"
“Baixo de casa” is presented not only as part of the architectural style of a traditional local house, but also as a symbol of the Santomean way of life, which integrates history, functionality, community ties and cultural values. A space that not only welcomes, but also preserves and projects a collective identity that continues to strengthen the unity and coexistence of families and communities throughout generations.
Panels in this section:
Outdoor Panel: Information with general information about the country, logos of partners and a monitor with promotional images.
Roça Sundy: Panel on sustainable tourism, solar eclipse and tribute to one of the largest foreign investors in the archipelago: HBD Group
Local Crafts: Pieces that reveal creativity and cultural identity.
Thematic Documentaries: Multimedia space with videos on the environment, economy, culture and natural beauty
Message from the Commissioner-General of São Tomé and Príncipe for Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan
It is with great honour and enthusiasm that São Tomé and Príncipe is presenting itself at Expo 2025 Osaka – Japan, a global event that will bring together millions of visitors and hundreds of nations, whose central theme is “the connection between peoples and nations”. This is a unique opportunity for us to showcase the natural, cultural and historical wealth of our country to the world, providing a true journey through the archipelago.
In our pavilion, we will invite everyone to immerse themselves in the essence of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Traditional architecture will be one of the protagonists, with the recreation of a typical house that will illustrate the daily life of our citizens, allowing visitors to experience our traditions and experience the authenticity of our way of life. At the centre of our space, we will symbolically convey the geographical position of our country – situated at the centre of the world, to reinforce the idea of the interconnection between peoples and cultures.
Environmental preservation will also be one of the central themes of our participation, highlighting São Tomé and Príncipe's status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the conservation of forests, mangroves, biodiversity and the promotion of ecological practices that respect nature.
The historic coffee and cocoa plantations will also have a prominent place, not only as cultural and architectural heritage, and the diversity of agricultural production, but also as pillars of rural and ecological tourism. In addition, our chocolates, recognized worldwide for their exceptional quality and awarded among the best by the public, will be on display.
In addition to celebrating our identity, Expo 2025 Osaka represents a strategic platform for strengthening international relations. The event will also serve to boost collaborations and attract investment in key sectors, ensuring that São Tomé and Príncipe continues to grow in a balanced and integrated manner on the global stage.
We are ready to take a piece of our archipelago to Japan and share it with the world. May this be an opportunity to strengthen ties, spark curiosity and inspire future partnerships, always with the authenticity and hospitality that characterize us.
We count on you on this unforgettable journey!
The Transformative Impact of Cocoa and Coffee Plantations on Tourism and Environmental Conservation for a Long-Term Future
3. PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
3.1. Context
In addition to the exhibition pavilion, the country will also organize a Week Alluding to São Tomé and Príncipe, where a series of events and activities will be presented, such as traditional music and dance, gastronomy, themed workshops, among others. This special moment, which will be attended by His Excellency the President of the Republic, as well as a delegation of local authorities, will also be an opportunity to mark the country's 50th anniversary of independence. This celebration will be joined by Japanese authorities, guests from other nations and São Tomé citizens, who will travel to Japan through a promotional package organized by the “National Commission – Expo 2025”.
4.2. Calendar and Activities
July 12th – Thematic Workshop - Cocktail
Week Alluding to São Tomé and Príncipe
September 29th to October 1st:
September 29th:
1. Protocol ceremony attended by Japanese authorities, São Toméans and guests. 2. 3. 4. Guided visit to the Japanese Pavilion. Guided visit to the São Tomé and Príncipe Pavilion. Exhibition on Txiloli presented by artist René Tavares. 5. Official reception hosted by the Japanese Government.
September 30th:
1. Cultural presentations: traditional rhythms and dances
with artists Filipe Santo and Anastácia Carvalho.
2. Reception/Dinner offered by the São Tomé authorities, with typical dishes, cultural demonstrations and
accompanied by the presentation of a table collection by fashion designer Roselyn Silva.
October 1st:
1. Thematic workshops on sustainability and cultural appreciation. 2. Closing ceremony of the activities. The involvement of a wide range of national partners, the result of a firm national commitment and a coordinated effort within the scope of public-private partnerships, was crucial to ensuring not only the realization of São Tomé and Príncipe's participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, but also the quality and impact of the national representation.
The main partners include Banco Internacional de São Tomé e Príncipe (BISTP) and STP Airways, followed by HBD and Grupo Pestana. This group was also joined by BGFI Bank, Ecobank, Afriland First Bank, GTI Bank, CIEM, SAAR, CST and EIM, Lda., whose support and collaboration were essential to the success of this mission.
We believe that together we can demonstrate to the world the uniqueness of São Tomé and Príncipe, not only as a tourist destination or a land of traditions, but as an example of commitment to a sustainable future. May Expo 2025 be a milestone in our history, an occasion in which, with pride and responsibility, we will leave our mark, strengthening our identity on the international scene..
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