H.E. Dr. Nilda Borges da Mata (São Tomé and Príncipe)

H.E. Dr. Nilda Borges da Mata (São Tomé and Príncipe)

(Minister of Environment, Youth and 

Sustainable Tourism, Democratic Republic 

of São Tomé and Príncipe)

For small island states, water is more than a public service. It is the foundation of public health, environmental protection, tourism, food security and economic resilience. Few understand that interconnected reality better than Her Excellency Dr. Nilda Borges da Mata, whose leadership places environmental stewardship at the centre of her country's sustainable development agenda.

As Minister of Environment, Youth and Sustainable Tourism of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, Dr. Borges da Mata oversees one of the country's most critical portfolios, bringing together environmental protection, youth empowerment and sustainable tourism under a shared vision of resilience and responsible development. In an island nation where freshwater resources, healthy ecosystems and thriving coastal environments are inseparable, her work reflects the understanding that protecting nature is fundamental to securing the nation's future.

Since assuming office, Dr. Borges da Mata has championed policies that promote sustainable environmental governance while positioning tourism as a driver of inclusive economic growth. Speaking at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa's High-Level Policy Dialogue on Tourism, she reaffirmed her government's commitment to making tourism "a driver of inclusive growth, youth employment, and the promotion of São Tomé and Príncipe's natural and cultural heritage." Under her leadership, the country has strengthened collaboration between government institutions, development partners, academia and the private sector to build a more sustainable and competitive tourism sector grounded in sound environmental management.

Her commitment to sustainability extends beyond tourism. At international forums, Dr. Borges da Mata has consistently advocated for stronger environmental governance, marine conservation and action against plastic pollution. Addressing the United Nations Ocean Conference, she highlighted São Tomé and Príncipe's efforts to reduce plastic waste, advance ocean conservation and strengthen the protection of marine ecosystems, recognising that healthy oceans and healthy freshwater systems are inseparable for island nations.

She has also represented São Tomé and Príncipe on continental and global platforms dedicated to climate action, biodiversity and sustainable development, ensuring that the voices and priorities of African Small Island Developing States are represented in international decision-making. Through partnerships with organisations including the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the Global Environment Facility and other multilateral institutions, she continues to advance cooperation on climate resilience, environmental sustainability and sustainable financing for development.

Dr. Borges da Mata's leadership demonstrates that securing Africa's water future requires more than expanding access to water and sanitation. It requires protecting the ecosystems that sustain water resources, strengthening environmental governance, investing in young people and ensuring that development today does not compromise the needs of future generations.

Today, Africa's Women's Day Awareness proudly honours H.E. Dr. Nilda Borges da Mata for her outstanding leadership in advancing environmental stewardship, sustainable development and climate resilience, and for helping shape a future where Africa's natural resources are protected for generations to come.

Sources: CIA World Leaders; United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA); United Nations Ocean Conference (2025); United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP); Global Environment Facility (GEF).