Cape Verde Facts

Cape Verde, an island in the Atlantic Ocean, about 600 km west of Senegal; 4,000 km², 554,000 residents (2019.Cape Verde consists of ten islands (of which nine are inhabited) and eight smaller islets. The capital is Praia (134,900 residents, 2012).

Country facts

• Republic of Cabo Verde / Republic of Cape Verde
• Country abbreviation: CV
• Area: 4 000 km²
• Population (2019): 554,000 residents
• Capital: Praia
• Main languages: Portuguese
• State: Republic
• Head of State: Jorge Carlos Fonseca (President)
• Head of Government: Ulisses Correia e Silva
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 3,654
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 3,450
• Currency unit: 1 escudo = 100 centavos
• Currency code: CVE
• Country number (telephony): 238
• Internet domain name: cv
• Time difference compared to Sweden: −2
• National Day: September 12 (Constitution adopted, 1980)
• Independence Day: July 5, 1975

Nature

• Land use: agricultural land (10%), other (90%)
• Highest mountain: Pico do Cano (2,829 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 139 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 1.4%; birthrate 20 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (29%), 15-64 (66%), 65- (5%)
• Average life expectancy (2019): men 69 years, women 77 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 17 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 700,000 residents
• HDI (2017): 0.654 (place 125 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 66%
• Most populous cities (2012): Praia (134,900 residents), Mindelo (72,000)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (9%), industry (18%), service (77%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 189 million
• Main export products: fuel, shoes, textiles
• Main exporting countries: Spain, Portugal, Netherlands
• Imports (2017): US $ 836 million
• Main import products: food, industrial products, transport
• Main importing countries: Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands
• Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is an archipelago located in the central Atlantic Ocean, approximately 570 kilometers (350 miles) off the west coast of Africa. The archipelago consists of 10 volcanic islands and several smaller islets, spread over an area of about 4,000 square kilometers. These islands are divided into two groups: the Barlavento (windward) islands in the north and the Sotavento (leeward) islands in the south. The country is positioned at a strategic crossroads between the Americas, Europe, and Africa, and this location has historically made it a significant point for maritime trade and navigation.

Cape Verde does not share land borders with any other country, but its maritime location places it near the coast of Senegal to the east and Guinea-Bissau to the south. The islands’ isolation in the Atlantic Ocean has shaped the country’s unique cultural identity and limited its direct land interactions with other nations.

Topography and Natural Features

Cape Verde’s topography is highly mountainous and rugged, shaped by its volcanic origins. The islands are largely of volcanic origin, and many still show the effects of past volcanic activity, with steep cliffs, deep valleys, and craters. The highest peak in Cape Verde is Mount Fogo, located on the island of Fogo. It stands at 2,829 meters (9,281 feet) above sea level and is an active volcano, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2014. The island of Fogo is particularly known for its dramatic landscape, including its central crater, which hosts fertile volcanic soils that support agriculture.

The landscape of Cape Verde varies from island to island. Some islands, like Santiago, have a more tropical climate, with lush valleys and rivers that support vegetation and agriculture. Others, such as Sal and Boa Vista, are arid and more desert-like, with sparse vegetation, rolling sand dunes, and coastal plains. Despite the arid conditions of some islands, Cape Verde is home to a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests in the mountainous regions of Santo Antão, where the lush environment is a result of higher rainfall at higher altitudes.

Climate and Seasonal Variation

Cape Verde experiences a dry, tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate on most islands is classified as semi-arid or desert-like, but it varies based on altitude and geographic location. The islands receive relatively little rainfall, averaging only 200-400 millimeters (8-16 inches) annually, with the majority of rainfall occurring between August and October. The wet season coincides with the passage of the Intertropical Convergence Zone, which brings heavy showers, particularly to the northern and higher-altitude islands.

The dry season, which lasts for the remainder of the year, is characterized by hot and dry conditions. Temperatures during this period range from 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F), and the humidity is generally low. The constant trade winds that blow across the islands from the northeast help moderate temperatures and contribute to a relatively mild climate, especially along the coast.

The arid nature of Cape Verde’s climate poses challenges for agriculture and water resources, but the government has focused on sustainable water management projects to address these challenges. Despite its dry conditions, Cape Verde is home to a number of endemic plant and animal species, adapted to the harsh environmental conditions.

People

Population and Demographics

Cape Verde has a population of approximately 550,000 people, making it one of the smallest countries in Africa. The population density is highest on the more fertile islands, such as Santiago, where the capital city, Praia, is located. Praia is the largest city and the political and economic center of the country, while Mindelo on São Vicente Island serves as the cultural hub of Cape Verde. Other major cities include Assomada and Santa Maria. Cape Verde’s population is predominantly urban, with over 60% of the population living in cities or towns.

The country’s population is ethnically diverse, the result of centuries of interaction between Africans, Portuguese colonizers, and other seafarers. The majority of the population is of mixed African and European descent, a result of the transatlantic slave trade and the Portuguese colonization of the islands. There are also small communities of people of European descent, particularly of Portuguese origin, as well as a small population of immigrants from other African countries and Europe.

The population of Cape Verde is relatively young, with a large proportion under the age of 30. The country has seen a gradual decline in birth rates in recent years, while life expectancy has risen due to improvements in healthcare. However, Cape Verde faces challenges related to emigration, as many young people leave the islands in search of better economic opportunities abroad, particularly in Europe, the United States, and Portugal.

Languages

Cape Verde’s official language is Portuguese, which is used in government, education, and formal communication. However, the majority of the population speaks Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu), a Portuguese-based creole language that varies slightly from island to island. Kriolu is the language of everyday life, spoken at home and in informal settings, while Portuguese is used for official matters and education.

Cape Verde has several distinct dialects of Creole, with the most widely spoken being the Santiago dialect. While Kriolu is not standardized and lacks a formal writing system, it is an essential part of Cape Verde’s cultural identity, and there have been increasing efforts to promote the language and preserve it through literature, music, and the arts.

Religion

Christianity is the dominant religion in Cape Verde, with around 90% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic, and a smaller percentage adhering to various Protestant denominations. Catholicism was introduced by the Portuguese during the colonial period, and the religion has deeply influenced the culture and traditions of Cape Verde. Religious festivals, such as Christmas and Easter, are widely celebrated, along with numerous saints’ feast days, particularly on the islands of Santiago and São Vicente.

In addition to Christianity, there is a small Muslim population in Cape Verde, mainly consisting of immigrants and their descendants. There is also a small community of Bahá’ís, as well as individuals practicing indigenous African beliefs, particularly in rural areas.

Cape Verde is a secular state, and the government guarantees freedom of religion. Religious tolerance is widespread, and people of different faiths often coexist peacefully within communities.

Economy

Overview

Cape Verde has a service-based economy, with tourism, remittances, and services contributing significantly to the GDP. The country has no significant natural resource wealth, relying on imports for most goods and services. However, the islands’ location has positioned Cape Verde as an important center for maritime trade and transportation. Agriculture, particularly the production of crops such as corn, beans, and bananas, is vital to the economy, though it faces challenges due to the country’s arid climate.

Cape Verde’s economic development has been positively influenced by the country’s stable political environment, improved infrastructure, and a growing tourism industry. The government has undertaken several economic reforms aimed at reducing dependency on foreign aid, improving investment, and developing sustainable industries, such as renewable energy and fisheries. Despite these advances, Cape Verde still faces challenges related to unemployment, poverty, and the vulnerability of its economy to external shocks, such as changes in the global economy and climate change.

Agriculture and Fisheries

Agriculture in Cape Verde is limited due to the country’s dry climate and poor soil quality. The main agricultural products are corn, beans, and vegetables, which are grown primarily for domestic consumption. On some islands, fruit crops such as bananas, papayas, and citrus are cultivated, though they remain secondary to the country’s reliance on imports for food and other products. Cape Verde is highly dependent on food imports to meet the needs of its population.

Fisheries, however, are an important economic sector, with Cape Verde’s location along the Atlantic Ocean providing rich maritime resources. Fishing, particularly tuna and other seafood, is a key industry, both for domestic consumption and export. The government has made efforts to develop the fishing sector through sustainable practices, aiming to ensure that fish stocks are managed responsibly and the industry remains profitable.

Tourism and Services

Tourism has become one of the most significant contributors to the Cape Verdean economy in recent decades. The country’s stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage attract tourists from around the world, particularly from Europe. The islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Santiago are the most popular tourist destinations, offering a mix of resorts, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities such as hiking, water sports, and diving.

The service sector, including financial services, transport, and communications, is another key pillar of Cape Verde’s economy. The country has made strides in improving its infrastructure, particularly in transportation and telecommunications, to support the growing tourism industry and expand its business environment. The Cape Verdean government has also pursued policies aimed at attracting foreign direct investment, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

International Trade and Investment

Cape Verde is an open economy, with a strong reliance on imports and exports. The country imports a wide range of goods, including food, fuel, machinery, and chemicals, primarily from the European Union, the United States, and West Africa. The export base is limited, though fish and marine products are key exports, along with garments and some agricultural products.

Cape Verde is a member of several regional trade organizations, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). The country has also signed several bilateral trade agreements to improve access to international markets and boost economic cooperation.

Government

Political System

Cape Verde is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. The country’s political structure is based on the Constitution of Cape Verde, which was adopted in 1980 and has undergone several amendments since. The President of Cape Verde serves as the head of state and is elected for a five-year term through a direct popular vote. The President holds a largely ceremonial role, while executive power is vested in the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President and heads the government.

The National Assembly of Cape Verde is unicameral, consisting of 72 members who are elected every five years through proportional representation. The Parliament is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government’s activities. Cape Verde is known for its stable political environment, and it has made significant progress in building democratic institutions since its independence.

Legal System

The legal system in Cape Verde is based on civil law, with influences from Portuguese law, as a result of the country’s colonial history. The judiciary is independent, and the country has a Supreme Court, which is the highest judicial authority in the land. The legal framework guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, with an emphasis on human rights and justice.

Cape Verde has also made significant strides in establishing legal protections for women, children, and marginalized communities, aiming to provide access to justice for all citizens. However, challenges remain in ensuring the equitable application of the law, particularly in rural areas where access to legal services may be limited.

Foreign Relations

Cape Verde has maintained a policy of international cooperation and diplomacy, particularly with its former colonizer, Portugal, and other Portuguese-speaking nations. The country has cultivated strong relationships with international organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). Additionally, Cape Verde has developed growing ties with the European Union, the United States, and regional neighbors in West Africa.

Cape Verde is also an advocate for regional integration and has sought to foster closer ties with West African countries through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The country’s position in the Atlantic Ocean has made it a key player in maritime trade and international shipping, and its diplomatic efforts aim to position Cape Verde as a key player in global governance, particularly in the areas of sustainable development and ocean conservation.

Culture

Arts and Music

Cape Verde has a rich cultural heritage that blends African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences. Music is an integral part of the country’s culture, with genres such as morna, coladeira, and funana representing the country’s unique musical traditions. Morna, often described as Cape Verde’s national music, is a slow, soulful genre that expresses themes of love, longing, and melancholy, influenced by African rhythms and Portuguese melodies.

Cape Verdean music has gained international recognition, with artists such as Cesária Évora bringing the country’s traditional sounds to the global stage. Evora’s music, in particular, helped popularize morna and raised awareness of Cape Verde’s rich cultural legacy. Other genres, such as coladeira and funana, incorporate faster rhythms and dance, often reflecting the more energetic and festive aspects of Cape Verdean culture.

Visual arts, including painting, sculpture, and photography, also play a significant role in Cape Verdean culture. The country’s arts scene is inspired by its diverse history, with artists drawing from African, Portuguese, and indigenous Cape Verdean traditions. The arts have become an important means of expression, used to convey social and political messages as well as to celebrate the beauty and history of Cape Verde.

Cuisine

Cape Verdean cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural influences. Seafood is a staple of the diet, due to the archipelago’s coastal location, and dishes often feature fish such as tuna, lobster, and moray eel. One of the most popular traditional dishes is “catchupa,” a hearty stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish. It is often considered the national dish and is eaten across the islands, with slight variations depending on regional preferences.

Other common dishes include grilled fish, rice, and beans, as well as pastries and sweets influenced by Portuguese and African culinary traditions. The island’s cuisine also features tropical fruits like bananas, papayas, and pineapples, which are widely grown throughout the archipelago. Alcoholic beverages such as grogue, a traditional Cape Verdean rum, are also an important part of the culture.

Festivals and Traditions

Cape Verde has a vibrant festival culture, with many events taking place throughout the year to celebrate its rich heritage. The Carnival of Mindelo, held on the island of São Vicente, is the most famous cultural event in the country, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world. The carnival is marked by colorful parades, music, dance, and costumes, reflecting the fusion of African and Portuguese influences.

Other important festivals include the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Piedade, held in the city of Praia, and the Tabanka Festival in the island of Santiago, which celebrates Afro-Cape Verdean traditions and rituals. These festivals play an important role in maintaining Cape Verde’s cultural identity and promoting social cohesion across its diverse communities.

Religion

The majority of Cape Verdeans are Roman Catholic, reflecting the country’s historical ties to Portugal. Catholicism plays a significant role in Cape Verdean society, and religious festivals, such as the Feast of Our Lady of Piety, are important cultural events. Many Cape Verdeans also practice elements of indigenous African religions, blending African traditions with Christianity in unique ways.

Protestantism, particularly Evangelicalism, has grown in recent decades, and there is also a small Muslim community in the country, particularly among immigrants from West Africa and the Middle East. Religious tolerance is widespread in Cape Verde, with people of different faiths often coexisting peacefully.

History

Early History and Portuguese Colonization

Cape Verde was uninhabited when the first Portuguese explorers arrived in the 15th century. The archipelago became a Portuguese colony in 1462, and over the next few centuries, it served as an important stopover for Portuguese ships engaged in the transatlantic slave trade. The country’s strategic location made it an important hub for maritime trade and colonization.

The islands were primarily used for their salt, sugar, and cotton production, and the Portuguese settlers introduced African slaves to work the land. The legacy of the transatlantic slave trade is deeply embedded in the country’s history and culture, with many of the islands’ inhabitants being descendants of African slaves brought from West Africa.

Independence and Post-Colonial Period

Cape Verde gained independence from Portugal on July 5, 1975, after a long struggle for decolonization. The country’s first president was Aristides Pereira, a key figure in the independence movement. Since gaining independence, Cape Verde has made significant strides in political stability, social development, and economic progress, despite facing challenges such as drought, limited natural resources, and emigration.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Cape Verde experienced significant political and economic reforms, transitioning from a one-party system to a multi-party democracy. The country’s stable governance, relative peace, and growing economy have made it one of the more successful examples of democratic consolidation in Africa.

Modern Cape Verde

Today, Cape Verde is considered a stable and democratic country, with a relatively high standard of living compared to other African nations. The country has made significant progress in improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education. However, Cape Verde faces ongoing challenges, including economic dependence on external factors such as remittances, tourism, and foreign aid, as well as vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters, particularly droughts.

Cape Verde continues to emphasize its unique cultural identity, celebrating its Afro-Portuguese heritage through music, art, and festivals. The country is also seeking to expand its role in regional and international affairs, focusing on sustainable development, environmental protection, and fostering economic diversification.

Cape Verde Map