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Saint Helena

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The flag of Saint Helena, a symbol of British Overseas Territory news on Innovando News

Discover Saint Helena, an island with a fascinating history and breathtaking views, a haven of peace in the heart of the Atlantic on Innovando.New: Saint Helena is a small island located in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 2.000 km from Africa. With a surface area of ​​122 km² and about 4.500 inhabitants, it is a British dependency. The landscape is mountainous and volcanic, with steep coasts and a subtropical climate. The capital, Jamestown, is the political and cultural center, while Longwood is famous for being the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile. The economy is mainly based on tourism, agriculture and fishing. The island has a deep colonial history and a culture influenced by the United Kingdom, with an official language of English and local Creole. Its unique biodiversity is protected by conservation policies. Saint Helena, despite being one of the most isolated islands in the world, offers a relatively high quality of life and has a well-developed education and health system.

Summary data on Saint Helena

  • Total population: Approximately 4.500 inhabitants.
  • Population growth rate: Approximately 0,1% per annum.
  • Capital: Jamestown (population about 1.000).
  • Main cities: Jamestown, Longwood, Half Tree Hollow.
  • Countries it borders: No land borders, being an island in the South Atlantic Ocean.
  • Nominal GDP: Approximately USD 100 million.
  • Pro-capite GDP: Approximately USD 22.000.
  • GDP growth rate: Approximately 1-2% per annum.
  • Inflation: Approximately 3-4% per year.
  • Unemployment rate: Approximately 3-4%.
  • Trade balance: Negative, as most goods are imported.
  • Major business partners: United Kingdom, South Africa, United States.
  • Public debt: Relatively low, but depends on the resources and infrastructure provided by the UK.
  • Public spending on R&D (Research and Development): Limited, with resources mainly directed towards basic infrastructure and services.
  • Main economic sectors: Agriculture (mainly horticulture), fishing, tourism, public and administrative services.
  • Currency: Saint Helena Pound (SHP), pegged to the British Pound (GBP).
  • Interest rate: Determined by UK monetary policy.
  • Foreign exchange reserves: Limited, with UK support.
  • Main exports: Agricultural products, fish, handicrafts.
  • Main imports: Food, fuels, consumer goods.
  • Human Development Index (HDI): Medium-high, but limited due to its small population and limited resources.
  • Literacy rate: Approximately 98%.
  • Life expectancy: About 80 years old.
  • Position in the Global Innovation Index: Low, given its small size and limited economy.
  • Corruption Perception Index: Very low, with limited and transparent public management.

Insights into St. Helena

1. Country Name

  • Official name: Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha (full official format including affiliated islands).
  • Short form: Saint Helena.

2. Geography

  • Geographic location: Saint Helena is a remote island located in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 2.000 km from the nearest coast, that of Africa, and is a British dependency.
  • In total area: 122 km².
  • Description of the landscape: The island is of volcanic origin, characterized by steep mountains and rugged landscapes, with a subtropical climate. The coasts are steep, but there are also some coastal plains. There are no rivers, but the island is rich in endemic flora.

3. Population

  • Number of inhabitants: Approximately 4.500 inhabitants.
  • Population growth ratePopulation growth is limited, partly due to its remote location and economic difficulties.
  • Population distribution: Most of the population lives in the capital, Jamestown, located on the north coast.

4. Capital and main cities

  • Capital: Jamestown.
  • Main cities: In addition to the capital, other notable locations include Longwood, home to Napoleon Bonaparte's historic residence during his exile.

5. economy

Nominal GDP and GDP per capita

St Helena has a relatively low GDP due to its size and geographical location. GDP per capita is modest, with the economy heavily dependent on UK subsidiaries and tourism.

Main economic sectors

  • Tourism: Tourism is an important resource, especially for visitors interested in history, such as Napoleon's residence and natural landscapes.
  • Agriculture: The island is self-sufficient in the production of some agricultural products, such as vegetables and fruit, thanks to its favorable climate in some areas.
  • Fishing: Fishing is also a key sector, particularly for fish which is exported.

GDP growth rate and inflation

The GDP growth rate is limited, and inflation is relatively low, but it depends largely on imported goods.

Unemployment rate and trade balance

The unemployment rate is relatively low, as the population is small. However, the island is highly dependent on imports, which leads to a negative trade balance.

Public debt

St Helena is financially supported by the United Kingdom, which covers much of its expenses, reducing the risk of high public debt.

Main exports and imports

  • Exports: Fish, some agricultural products and handcrafted souvenirs.
  • Imports: Food products, consumer goods, fuels and building materials.

6. Political system and government

  • Type of government: Overseas territory of the United Kingdom, with a local government that administers most internal affairs.
  • Political structure: The government consists of an Executive Council and a Legislative Council. The Governor is appointed by the United Kingdom.
  • Main political parties: Politics on St Helena is largely free of strong partisan divisions, with the government operating under the supervision of the British Government.

7. History and culture

Brief historical overview of the country

Saint Helena was discovered in 1502 by the Portuguese, but became a British colony in 1659. It was famous as the place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte from 1815 until his death in 1821. The island played a minor role during the colonial era, but gained importance as a waypoint for sea routes. Its economy has historically been linked to sugar cane cultivation and trade.

Cultural and linguistic traditions

The official language of Saint Helena is English, but many residents also speak Saint Helena Creole, a mixed language that reflects the island's colonial history. The island's culture is influenced primarily by British traditions, but also includes local and African aspects.

Cultural heritage

St. Helena has many historical sites, including Napoleon's residence at Longwood, which is a major tourist attraction. In addition, the island is famous for its unique flora and fauna, including the St. Helena parrot and several endemic plant species.

8. Innovation and development

St Helena is not a leading country in terms of technological innovation, but it is slowly adapting to modern needs, particularly in communications and transportation. The government has sought to improve tourism infrastructure to attract more visitors.

9. Education and health

  • Literacy rate: Very high, with an education system that provides free education up to the age of 18.
  • Education system: The education system on St Helena consists of primary and secondary schools, while for higher education many young people go to the United Kingdom.
  • Sanitary systemThe island has a basic healthcare system including hospitals and clinics, but for specialist treatment residents must travel to the UK.

10. International rankings

  • Human Development Index (HDI): Saint Helena has a medium level of human development, thanks to external investment and a relatively high quality of life for its residents.
  • Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)Corruption is low, with a government that operates under direct supervision from the UK.
  • Economic indices: St Helena does not have significant economic integration globally, but is heavily dependent on British economic policies.

11. Environmental policies

St Helena has programs to protect its unique biodiversity, including conservation plans for endemic species. The island is also committed to protecting the marine environment.

12. Curiosities and peculiarities

  • Interesting facts: St Helena is one of the most isolated islands in the world and has no international airport, although an airstrip has recently been built which has improved air links to the rest of the world.
  • Important events: Napoleon's annual feast and other celebrations related to his colonial history.
  • GastronomyThe cuisine is influenced by British tradition, with dishes such as fish and chips and local produce such as tea and lamb.

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