Sao Tome Youth Plant Mangroves to Protect their Island
- Aug 30
- 1 min read
Sao Tome City, Sao Tome & Principe – In conjunction with International Youth Day, UPF-Sao Tome held a program to promote environmental awareness among young people on August 15, 2026. The program was organized together with the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP).
To help young people understand the importance of preserving coastal areas and preventing the sea from encroaching on the islands, organizers decided to conduct a mangrove planting project. The activity was conducted with the Ministry of Water and Forests, which served as field guide and provided explanations about ecosystem protection.
Before heading out into the field, participants attended an educational session. UPF secretary general Mr. Nelson Afonso Taty Ntoko, gave a presentation on the principles of peace, followed by a video showcasing activities of the local IAYSP chapter. Ms. Melissa Pina, president of IAYSP, then gave a talk and led a discussion on character qualities and family practices that contribute to love of nature and concern for the environment. This was extended to becoming a patriot and to serving and loving the nation.
The group then proceeded to the site designated for planting trees in the mangrove forest, which prevent coastal erosion and also protect fish populations that support peoples’ livelihoods.
The young people enjoyed the activity while planting seedlings along the coast, and concluded the day with a sense of pride at having contributed to the preservation of their homeland.
