Decree-Law No. 04/2026 creating the National Environment Agency.

This Decree-Law establishes the creation of the National Environment Agency (Agência Nacional do Ambiente - ANA) in São Tomé and Príncipe, as part of a broader effort to strengthen environmental governance and climate policy implementation. Its main objective is to create a public institution with legal personality, administrative and financial autonomy, and sufficient operational capacity to regulate, monitor, and control environmental impacts, including climate change. The decree aims to improve the effectiveness of environmental management, ensure sustainable development, and enhance the country’s ability to mobilize and manage national and international resources for environmental protection and climate resilience, while delivering quality services to citizens and businesses. The decree-law aims to define the institutional framework, functions, and powers of the new agency, including the integration of environmental policies, coordination of climate action, and promotion of biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management. It also provides for the extinction of the previous environmental directorate (DAAC) and the transfer of its personnel, assets, and responsibilities to ANA, ensuring continuity of functions. Additionally, the law aims to promote good environmental governance, public participation, and intersectoral coordination, while establishing mechanisms for environmental regulation, licensing, monitoring, and financial management, including the administration of environmental funds.