BUSINESS NEWS
SUSTAINABLE SALT – A Social-impact Investment Initiative Designed to Empower Coastal Communities by Establishing Artisanal Salt Production as a Viable, Eco-friendly Source of Income.
COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL DETAILS AVAILABLE - Talk to us!
A project developed by STP-Investment Hub
15 min. reading
1. THE PROBLEM
Although São Tomé and Príncipe has a marine territory 160 times larger than its landmass, more than 50 tons of salt are imported annually due to the lack of industrial capacity.
Coastal communities in São Tomé and Príncipe face mounting socio-economic and environmental challenges due to declining fish stocks, deforestation, and unsustainable income practices such as charcoal production and overfishing.
With limited access to stable markets and few alternative livelihoods, these communities experience increasing poverty, food insecurity, and environmental degradation.
As forests are cleared and fish become scarce, both the ecosystem and livelihoods that depend on it are at risk — creating a cycle of vulnerability and ecological decline.
2. OUR SOLUTION
The Sustainable Salt Project introduces artisanal and eco-friendly salt production as a sustainable alternative livelihood for coastal populations.
By converting natural saline water resources into a renewable source of income, the project:
-
Provides stable employment and income diversification.
-
Reduces pressure on forests and marine ecosystems;
-
Builds community resilience through training and cooperative organization.
-
Establishes green value chains for local and international markets.
This model turns traditional know-how into a modern, sustainable industry that balances profit, people, and planet.
3. OUR VALUE PROPOSITION
The project offers a triple-impact value proposition:
-
Economic: Generates consistent income and promotes local entrepreneurship.
-
Environmental: Reduces deforestation and overfishing while promoting climate adaptation.
-
Social: Empowers women and youth through cooperative models and skill development.
The result: a profitable, scalable, and sustainable venture that aligns with ESG principles and SDG goals.
4. MARKET OPPORTUNITY
-
Global Trend: The global market for natural and artisanal salt is valued at over USD 13 billion and growing, driven by demand for sustainably sourced products in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
-
Local Potential: São Tomé and Príncipe’s coastal and riverine zones offer ideal conditions for high-quality, mineral-rich salt production.
-
Regional Gap: Neighboring West African countries rely heavily on imported salt, creating a strong regional market for premium local production.
-
Export Advantage: Niche export opportunities exist for organic and fair-trade salt, particularly to eco-conscious consumers and gourmet markets.
5. THE ART OF FISHING CONCEPT
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
BUSINESS MODEL
4
ANIMAL FEED FROM BY-PRODUCTS
Transforming fish by-products into high-quality animal feed, supporting local livestock farmers while reducing losses and waste.
TOURISM INTEGRATION
BUSINESS MODEL
5
TOURISM EXPERIENCE
Harnessing the full fishing value chain to create unique tourism experiences.
6. BUSINESS MODEL
-
The Sustainable Salt Project operates on a community-based, semi-industrial cooperative model:
-
Production: Artisanal salt harvested through evaporation ponds powered by solar energy.
-
Processing: Local facilities for cleaning, drying, packaging, and value-added production (e.g., flavored and mineral salt).
-
Sales: Distribution through local markets, hospitality networks, and export partnerships.
-
Reinvestment: A percentage of profits reinvested in community infrastructure, environmental restoration, and skill development.
8. CUSTOMER SEGMENTS
-
Domestic consumers seeking affordable, locally produced salt
-
Hotels, restaurants, and retailers promoting local and sustainable sourcing
-
Export partners and distributors targeting organic and fair-trade markets.
10.GROWTH STRATEGY
-
Phase 1 – Pilot Implementation (Year 1): Establish 2–3 salt cooperatives and a small processing unit.
-
Phase 2 – Market Expansion (Years 2–3): Scale production capacity and build export partnerships.
-
Phase 3 – Diversification (Years 4–5): Introduce value-added products (flavored salts, bath salts, cosmetics) and eco-tourism packages.
-
Phase 4 – Replication (Year 5+): Expand to other coastal regions and islands, creating a national network of sustainable salt producers.
11. KEY IMPACTS
-
Creation of 250+ direct and indirect jobs in the first three years.
-
60% reduction in deforestation linked to charcoal production.
-
Increased household incomes for riverside families by up to 40%.
-
Establishment of sustainable cooperatives led by women and youth.
-
Carbon footprint reduction through solar-powered production systems.
12. SDGs ALIGNMENT
-
The project directly contributes to:
-
SDG 1: No Poverty
-
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
-
SDG 5: Gender Equality
-
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
-
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
-
SDG 13: Climate Action
-
SDG 14 & 15: Life Below Water & Life on Land
13. FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
-
Total Investment Required: USD 2.5 million
-
Expected Annual Revenue (Year 5): USD 4.2 million
-
Projected ROI: 18–22%
-
Payback Period: 4 years
-
EBITDA Margin (Year 5): 28%
-
Jobs Created: 250+
13. THE ASK
We are seeking USD 2.5 million in blended financing (grants, equity, or concessional loans) to fund:
-
Infrastructure and production facilities
-
Cooperative training and management
-
Equipment and renewable energy systems
-
Marketing, certification, and export logistics
Investors will benefit from a measurable ESG-aligned portfolio, with clear social and environmental returns, impact reporting, and scalable growth potential.
14. RISKS MANAGEMENT
-
Risk 1: Climate variability affecting salt yield — Mitigation Strategy: Use of solar-powered, controlled evaporation systems
-
Risk 2: Market volatility. — Mitigation Strategy: Diversification of products and export channels
-
Risk 3: Limited local capacity — Mitigation Strategy: Continuous training and technical assistance
-
Risk 4: Regulatory or logistical challenges. — Mitigation Strategy: Partnership with government and local cooperatives.
-
Risk 5: Environmental impacts. — Mitigation Strategy: Environmental management plan and regular monitoring
PROJECT TEAM
Isaú Trindade - CEO
International Business Specialist
Field Of Studies: International Business
A dynamic entrepreneur with over eight years of proven experience in creating and managing successful companies. His strategic vision has led to the establishment of the STP Investment Hub, designed to facilitate and scale foreign direct investment in São Tomé and Príncipe, while providing national companies and start-ups with growth opportunities. In 2014, he founded World Link Solutions, specializing in training and consultancy, where he defined the mission, vision, and goals, transforming the company from a concept into a financially solid entity. With a master's degree in international business, he is passionate about the business world and possesses extensive knowledge of all aspects of business Development.
Anibal Olavio - COO
Fishery Specialist
Field Of Studies: Food Security
With a Master's Degree in Quality and Food, a Postgraduate Degree in Management of Cooperatives and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (PEMES), and a qualification as a Technician in Industrial Fishing, Olavio currently serves as the National Coordinator of the FAO-FISH4ACP Coastal Pelagics Value Chain Project. He has previously held various roles at the Directorate of Fishery under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fishery and Rural Development, including Head of the Fisheries Inspection Department, Sanitary Inspector, and Advisor to the Minister Additionally, he has been the Director General of Fisheries, as well as Director of Artisanal Fisheries, Community Development, and Aquaculture within the same Ministry. As a consultant, Olavio has coordinated the STP 03/004 PNUD/Minister of Plan and Finance project (Incomeating Component), focusing on “Support for Grassroots Communities in Local Governance and Poverty Reduction,” and served as an SFLP/FAO consultant in Equatorial Guinea, training the National Coordination Unit (“UCN”) in participatory diagnostic methods and community projects.
Sulisa Quaresma - CSO
Chemical & Environmental Specialist
Field Of Studies: Chemical Engineering
Sulisa Signo Bom Jesus Quaresma holds a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering with specializations in Environment, Energy, and Processes. She currently serves as the Director-General of the Directorate General for the Environment and Climate Action. In her capacity as a consultant, she has successfully led the preparation of National Communications (NCs) and National Greenhouse Gas Inventories for the Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU) and Waste sectors. Her work includes the development of Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Systems related to climate change, as well as the preparation of Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) reports focused on adaptation to climate change within the Water, Coastal Zones, and Agroforestry sectors. Furthermore, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing institutional capacity for climate finance in São Tomé and Príncipe. In addition to her consulting work, she possesses substantial experience in education and awareness-raising for sustainability. She has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting formal environmental education and informing the public about key environmental issues and sustainable development. Through these efforts, she strives to raise awareness and facilitate behavioral change concerning critical topics such as water management, waste reduction, forest conservation, climate change, and soil erosion.
Sandra Bandeira - CMO
Business Science Specialist
Field Of Studies: Business sciences
A professional with extensive experience in Administration and Strategic Management serves as the Commercial Director and Senior Consultant at RAFALI Corporation. Her primary focus lies in business development, import and export operations, and corporate communication initiatives. She holds a degree in Economics and Management, as well as a Master's degree in Business Sciences. Her profound expertise encompasses team management, commercial negotiation, and strategic planning. Currently, she plays a pivotal role in expanding and positioning her organization in the market. Core competencies include Strategic Management, Business Administration, Leadership and Team Management, Commercial Planning, Business Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Decision Making.
Rodney Fernandes - CTO
IT Specialist
Field Of Studies: Telecommunication and Electronics
Rodeney Fernandes is a Telecom and Electronics Engineer with a distinguished career that commenced in July 2009, during which he has acquired extensive experience in the realm of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). His professional endeavors are characterized by innovation, strategic leadership, and technical excellence. Currently, Mr. Fernandes serves as a Systems Administrator at the Institute of Innovation and Knowledge (INIC), which is responsible for overseeing Electronic Governance (e-Gov) and Digital Transformation (DX) initiatives in São Tomé and Príncipe. His specialized expertise plays a pivotal role in the digital modernization of the nation, facilitating the implementation of efficient and sustainable technological solutions. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mr. Fernandes possesses seven years of experience as a university professor at the esteemed IUCAI and USTP institutions. In this capacity, he has committed himself to the education and training of new professionals, imparting valuable technical and strategic knowledge within the field of ICTs. His career exemplifies a steadfast commitment to innovation, significant contributions to digital transformation, advancements in education, and the evolution of emerging technologies in São Tomé and Príncipe.
