Roça Agostinho Neto

Roça Agostinho Neto: An Agricultural Heritage of São Tomé

Nestled in the heart of São Tomé, Roça Agostinho Neto stands as the largest plantation on the island, covering an impressive 3,380 hectares. This estate, historically significant for its production of cocoa, bananas, wood, coffee, and copra, exemplifies the rich agricultural legacy shaped during the Portuguese colonial era. Roça Agostinho Neto, formerly known as Rio do Ouro or "golden river," was renamed in 1979 in honor of Agostinho Neto, Angola's first president, acknowledging the support his government provided during the decolonization of São Tomé and Príncipe.

Location and Access

Reaching Roça Agostinho Neto is straightforward for visitors. There are two primary access routes from the main road. One option is to turn left towards Guadalupe, just before the new Liceu do Conde high school. Alternatively, guests can continue until they see a marked left-hand turn after entering the town, characterized by a panel displaying educational health drawings. For added convenience, moto-taxis are readily available to carry visitors along the cobbled access road for a nominal fare of 10Db, providing an authentic local experience.

The Community

Agostinho Neto is not just a plantation; it is surrounded by a community of approximately 1,300 residents, primarily descendants of Cabo Verdean contract laborers. The local population is generally welcoming, although visitors may occasionally encounter children and adults asking for small gifts or money, particularly as they approach the plantation. Recently, efforts led by community members and local guides, like Willy Mendes, have worked towards improving visitor interactions, creating a more positive atmosphere and reducing the extent of begging.

Historical Significance

Roça Agostinho Neto is steeped in history, home to several key structures that tell the tale of its past. Among these is a grand but now-abandoned hospital, which has fallen into disrepair, notably losing part of its left wing in a collapse in 2014. The hospital's upper floors still offer sweeping views across the plantation, with remnants of its former use as living quarters visible. The plantation also features a historic chapel, over 200 years old, and various buildings related to colonial administration, including offices and a clock tower that now houses a fruit processing facility and an evangelical church.

Attractions and Activities

Beyond the historical buildings, there are multiple attractions for visitors at Roça Agostinho Neto. A nearby botanical garden serves as a tranquil spot for relaxation, offering a glimpse into the diverse plant life of the region. Although there is a nominal fee for donation-based entry, the garden also houses trees with labeled medicinal properties, which can be best appreciated with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

A short walk from the plantation leads to a small waterfall, known locally as "cascata," which many visitors overlook but adds a picturesque element to the area. For those interested in nature and relaxation, this waterfall provides a peaceful respite from the historical tour of the roça.

Conservation Challenges

Despite its rich history and significant role in São Tomé's agricultural past, Roça Agostinho Neto faces numerous challenges concerning conservation and maintenance. Many of the historical buildings are in a state of neglect, compounded by environmental factors such as humidity and invasive vegetation that threaten their structural integrity. The shifting socio-economic landscape post-independence has further complicated the situation, leading to a transformation from commercial agricultural production to subsistence farming, which significantly impacts local living conditions.

The Potential for Development

Acknowledging these challenges, there exists a tangible potential for Roça Agostinho Neto to evolve beyond its current state. The plantation has the capacity to serve as a focal point for heritage tourism, which could foster economic growth while preserving the cultural heritage of the region. With adequate conservation efforts, the roças could transform into educational platforms highlighting the historical and architectural significance of São Tomé and Príncipe.

Local tourism initiatives could support community engagement and provide income, encouraging the preservation of these cultural sites for future generations. By integrating local resources and knowledge, the sustainability of both the plantation and the community can be fortified.