The government of China has donated advanced inspection equipment to Sao Tome and Principe to modernize its customs services and enhance national security. The donation, valued at €7 million, includes a container scanner for the Port of Ana Chaves and two baggage inspection machines for the Nuno Xavier International Airport. The equipment is expected to enter operation on December 1, 2026.
The new technology features high-resolution imaging and 3D capabilities, allowing authorities to analyze goods and luggage with greater precision. This will enable the identification of potential irregularities without the need for physical inspections. Chinese Ambassador to Sao Tome and Principe, Xu Yingzhen, expressed satisfaction with the donation, highlighting the equipment's cutting-edge technology and pioneering features in Africa.
The equipment will contribute to the fight against smuggling and improve the efficiency of customs services. Chinese experts have been sent to support the installation and provide training to local professionals. Sao Tome and Principe's Minister of Economy and Finance, Gareth Guadalupe, welcomed the donation, noting that the country had not previously had scanners with this capacity for inspecting hand luggage and cargo.
The introduction of the scanners will streamline customs control, allowing bags to be analyzed through high-resolution images and reducing the need for indiscriminate physical inspections. Bags without suspicious items will be allowed to proceed normally, while those with potential risks will be subject to additional physical checks. This change aims to reduce wait times and facilitate passenger circulation.
The government expects the new equipment to enhance the control of goods entering the country, preventing smuggling, tax evasion, and other transnational crimes. The technology will be an important tool for authorities, particularly in a country heavily reliant on imports. The equipment will also improve airport procedures, making passenger control more efficient and selective.
The training of local technicians will be crucial in ensuring the effective use of the scanners. The ability of Sao Tome and Principe's professionals to operate and interpret the equipment will transform the technology into an effective instrument for strengthening institutions. The initiative represents a new stage in cooperation between Sao Tome and Principe and China, including knowledge transfer and capacity building.
The €7 million investment in advanced inspection equipment marks a significant development in the partnership between Sao Tome and Principe and China. The project goes beyond the delivery of technology, including training and capacity building for local professionals, with the goal of strengthening border control, protecting commercial operations, and improving passenger and goods circulation security.
Key points
- The donation includes a container scanner and two baggage inspection machines valued at €7 million.
- The equipment features high-resolution imaging and 3D capabilities for precise analysis.
- The initiative includes training for local professionals to ensure effective use of the technology.
