São Tomé and Príncipe is an island nation situated off the western coast of Central Africa, with a population of approximately 220,000. The population is primarily concentrated in the main towns of São Tomé and Santo António, with a significant rural population living in smaller villages throughout the islands. The country is divided into six districts and one autonomous region, Príncipe. In regards to telecommunications, São Tomé and Príncipe has been progressing, though it remains in a largely developmental stage. The nation has a limited fixed-line network, serving less than 1% of the population, and the mobile sector has a penetration rate of around 90%. Internet penetration is also low at 50%, indicating growth opportunities. The country's energy infrastructure is developing, with a focus on renewable sources, particularly hydropower and solar energy.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 2 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
CST, also known as Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações, is a telecommunications company operating in São Tomé and Príncipe. The company began commercial operations in January 1990 and is the primary provider of telecommunication services in the country. CST is majority owned by Portugal Telecom, a leading global telecommunications company, with the remaining shares held by the government of São Tomé and Príncipe. The company provides a range of services including fixed line, mobile, and internet services.
Unitel Sao Tome & Principe is a telecommunications company providing services in the African island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. The company was launched in July 2014 after securing an operator licence in 2013. The company is a subsidiary of the Angola-based telecommunications giant, Unitel International Holdings B.V. It operates as a privately held entity, with the majority of its ownership stemming from its parent company.