Príncipe Island port blocked by grounded MV Rehoboth

The only port on Príncipe Island, the Port of Santo António, has been blocked for approximately one week due to the grounding of the MV Rehoboth. The vessel, which flies the São Tomé flag and is of Nigerian origin, suffered a hull breach during docking maneuvers last Thursday.

The blockage is causing significant concern regarding the supply of food and fuel to the autonomous region. Local residents and economic operators have reported growing shortages and queues at fuel stations. There are also environmental concerns regarding potential impact from water accumulated inside the vessel.

Prime Minister Américo Ramos stated that technical teams from the Maritime and Port Institute (IMAP), specialized divers, and the coast guard are working to refloat the ship. While efforts have not yet been successful, the government is continuing technical operations to resolve the situation. Some local figures have used the crisis to call for the rehabilitation of the colonial-era port and have threatened to boycott upcoming legislative and local elections on September 27 if the issue is not resolved.