Príncipe is a tiny volcanic island in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Africa. It belongs to the archipelago of São Tomé & Príncipe, Africa’s second smallest nation, and lies slightly north of the equator. Santo Antonio is the world’s smallest capital, and is home to the Príncipe Foundation.

As you fly in to Príncipe, surrounded by the vast expanse of the Atlantic ocean, the isolation of the island explains why so many of the species found here are endemic (found nowhere else on earth) – both on land and in the sea. Seen from the sky, the island is a lush green wilderness with a magnificent topography of volcanic peaks and rain-forest covering the entire island with only a few narrow sandy beaches.

I have been fortunate to be able to work with a client who, for some years, has been seeking to promote the conservation of this unique landscape, as well the sustainable use of the island's marine and forest resources. Through its partnership with FFI, the Príncipe Foundation is undertaking systematic botanical surveys of the island, and taking stock of the acquatic and avian populations. The island and surrounding waters are an important breeding ground and nesting area for sea turtles, humpback whales and seabirds. About a third of the island’s human population depends on fisheries for their livelihoods. Striking a balance between conservation and securing livelihoods is at the heart of Príncipe Foundation’s mission.

The money raised by your sponsorship will go to fund the operating costs of the Foundation.

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