Armed Forces Day, or Dia das Forças Armadas, is observed in São Tomé and Príncipe every September 6. This public holiday honors the country's military, known as the Armed Forces of São Tomé and Príncipe (FASTP), which is the smallest armed force in Africa. The FASTP consists of four branches: the Army, Coast Guard, Presidential Guard, and National Guard, and primarily focuses on internal security and paramilitary duties. Celebrations typically include military parades in the capital city of São Tomé. The country's military faces resource challenges, and efforts are being made by the Minister of Defense and the Commander-in-Chief to seek foreign assistance from nations such as Nigeria, Angola, Portugal, France, and the United States. The day serves to highlight both the significance of the military and the issues it confronts.