Comments on: The Race: Nightmares, Explosions and Geographic Origins

By: Bastien

Bastien — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:48:32 +0000

Hi Bob,
Really nice and informative blog, as usual. Regarding the platform, It is not the first time this happens in Sao Tomé. Platforms of different types regularly cruise around the gulf of guinea, to and from Angola or Nigeria. They usually travel along the south west of ST and are therefore rarely seen from the capital. Right now, I’m more concerned about oil tankers cleaning their tanks illegaly off the coasts of STP,leaving crude balls on our beaches and mangroves…More common than people think. Note that the first platforms in the arquipelago will most likely be installed north of Principe, in the Joint Development Zone.
Cheers,
B

By: Bob

Bob — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 03:39:19 +0000

Thanks for the comment, Luis. It is somewhat ironic that the first island in the same chain, Bioko, is an example of what can happen. If you get a chance to visit and see first hand, do so. It is pretty awful.
And now my old friend who lives on Sao Tome informs me that they plan beginning construction on the deep water port at the north end of the island next year…. not much time left.

By: Luís

Luís — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:19:15 +0000

I’m also very relieved by Polly’s explanation. But as Bob’s said, it’s just a matter of months/years until they arrive in STP. And then… Well, everybody’s knows what’s going to happen… I live in Luanda (Angola) and I see what kind “richness” oil industry brings to these countries.

By: bob

bob — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:11:58 +0000

I was too, V. But it is a reminder that time is running out… I hope I am wrong.

By: Velma

Velma — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 17:06:01 +0000

I’m so releived to see Polly’s explanation of that platform. This was a great post. thank you – I need distraction today.
v