São Tomé and Príncipe Water Crisis Hits Households and Public Services
São Tomé and Príncipe is facing a serious water shortage. The crisis affects households, hospitals, schools and businesses across the country. On 2 November 2026, the state-owned water and electricity company, EMAE, proposed an investment of 1.5 million dobras to improve water supplies. The plan would capture and treat river water. However, the government has not yet provided the funds. According to Téla Nón’s report published on 2 November, several reservoirs in Mé-Zochi district have run dry. Natural springs also struggle to meet demand. As a result, Ayres de Menezes Central Hospital faces water supply problems. This raises concerns about patients, healthcare workers and essential medical services.
Meanwhile, the shortage continues to affect thousands of families. On 30 October, Jornal Transparência reported that many households face irregular water supplies or complete interruptions. Consequently, some residents buy water from private suppliers or travel longer distances to collect it. Schools, hospitals and small businesses also struggle when taps run dry. The crisis reflects years of limited investment in water infrastructure. Ageing pipes and falling water levels in natural springs have made the situation worse. Furthermore, changing weather patterns and long dry periods have increased pressure on available water supplies.
The shortage also puts extra pressure on household budgets. On 20 October, Leve Leve News reported that residents in some areas of São Tomé pay more than 1,000 dobras for 1,000 litres of water delivered by motorised vehicles. However, fuel shortages have also disrupted these deliveries. As a result, many families struggle to obtain enough water for daily use. The government must now prioritise investment in water collection and treatment facilities. It should also repair ageing pipes and improve water management. In addition, securing funding for EMAE’s proposed project could help restore reliable supplies. These steps are essential to protect public health, improve sanitation and support communities across São Tomé and Príncipe.
