May 6, 2024
The recent completion of the rehabilitation and upgrade of the National Road 1 (EN1) in São Tomé and Príncipe has brought significant improvements to the country's infrastructure, mobility, businesses, and residential areas.
Helder Paquete, the National Executive Director of STP's National Road Institute (INAE), emphasized the importance of the project, stating, "We expect all future roads to be built to at least this standard, with a focus on climate resilience." The project, financed by the World Bank, sets a new standard for building climate-resilient roads in the country.
Gomes, the President of the Lemba District Taxi Drivers' Association, expressed gratitude for the rehabilitation, highlighting the challenges faced by drivers and passengers before the upgrade. He praised the modern road with necessary safety features and designated areas for loading and offloading passengers.
Similarly, Carlos Andrade, a moto-taxi rider, commended the well-built and signposted road, noting the ease of travel and improved safety for drivers and pedestrians. The road's transformation has enhanced the working conditions and safety of transportation workers like Carlos.
Tiziano Pisoni, owner of Mucumbli Eco-Lodge, emphasized the positive impact of the rehabilitated road on businesses, particularly in the tourism sector. He noted increased customer traffic and ease of communication between businesses and the city, leading to economic growth in the area.
Resident Wilfredo Moniz highlighted the significance of the improved road conditions in attracting residents back to their communities, reducing the need for migration to the capital for better living conditions. The rehabilitation of the EN-1 road is seen as a crucial step in fostering economic development and improving the quality of life for residents in São Tomé and Príncipe.