xThe International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe have signed a EUR 4.6 million grant agreement to support the Transition Towards Sustainable and Nutritious Food Systems (SIAS) project. The initiative aims to advance the country’s shift toward more productive, sustainable, and climate-resilient food systems.
The total cost of the SIAS project exceeds EUR 15 million and is co-financed by the Adaptation Fund and the Global Environment Facility, with additional contributions from the government and participating households. IFAD Vice-President Gérardine Mukeshimana highlighted that the partnership will unlock economic opportunities for farming communities and strengthen São Tomé and Príncipe’s ability to adapt to climate challenges.
Over six years, the project will reach 5,500 rural households—around 22,000 people—across 69 communities on São Tomé Island and in the Autonomous Region of Príncipe. SIAS will focus on climate-resilient agriculture by rehabilitating irrigation systems, restoring soils and landscapes, expanding agroforestry over 550 hectares, and enhancing the performance of producers’ organizations. The project will also improve nutrition through education and better access to diverse and healthy foods.
The initiative will particularly support youth and women. Nearly 1,300 young people will benefit from skills development, technical training, and entrepreneurship programs, while women will receive leadership training, improved access to productive resources, and tailored nutrition programs to strengthen their role in the rural economy.
Since 1985, IFAD has invested over US$41 million in eight rural development projects in São Tomé and Príncipe, contributing to total project costs of more than US$86 million and benefiting nearly 35,000 rural households, demonstrating its long-term commitment to sustainable rural transformation in the country.
