Independence Anniversary: São Tomé and Príncipe marked its 51st independence anniversary on July 12, with President Carlos Vila Nova urging unity and peace as the country heads toward elections and tackles long-running economic and social challenges. Energy & Oil: Petrobras has completed its acquisition of a 75% operating interest in offshore Block 3 off São Tomé and Príncipe, taking operatorship alongside Oranto Petroleum (15%) and the National Petroleum Agency (10%), as part of its push to expand exploration reserves. Electricity Modernisation: A TECMON Energy delegation visited São Tomé and Príncipe (June 29–July 2) to advance plans with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Natural Resources and utilities on stabilising and modernising the national electricity sector, including generation, transmission, metering and revenue protection. Regional Diplomacy: Angola’s President João Lourenço sent congratulations to President Vila Nova, highlighting fraternal ties and renewed cooperation ambitions with São Tomé and Príncipe. Visa Rules Watch: UAE, Ethiopia, South Africa, Cabo Verde and France all published updated entry/visa exemption lists for 2026, with Cabo Verde requiring pre-registration on its EASE portal and Ethiopia expanding visa-on-arrival access for approved nationalities.