Discover Cape Verde

Let African and European Culture Dance to the Rhythm of Island Life

Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde as it's known locally, is a mesmerizing archipelago located in the central Atlantic Ocean, off the northwest coast of Africa. A blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, the islands of Cape Verde offer a unique cultural experience, set against a backdrop of diverse landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to rugged volcanic terrains. 

History of Cape Verde: an overview

The saga of Cape Verde's past is rich, drawing threads from explorations, commerce, colonization, and the pursuit of identity.

Early Exploration and Settlement

While there's some speculation that the Carthaginians and other ancient civilizations might have known of the islands, the first documented discovery of Cape Verde was in the 15th century by Portuguese explorers. In 1456, Alvise Cadamosto, an explorer under the patronage of Portugal's Prince Henry the Navigator, came upon the uninhabited islands. The settlement began in earnest in the 1460s, with São Tiago (Santiago) being among the first to be populated. The islands provided an excellent base for trade routes due to their strategic location between Africa and the Americas.

Role in the Atlantic Slave Trade

Cape Verde's proximity to the West African coast soon led it to become a pivotal point in the burgeoning Atlantic slave trade. Cidade Velha, located on Santiago, became a prominent trading post and one of the first European colonial outposts in the tropics. It was here that European traders would acquire African slaves to be shipped across the Atlantic, especially to Brazil. This dark chapter in the islands' history not only boosted the archipelago's economic significance but also cemented the melding of African and Portuguese cultures, which remains evident today.

Piracy and Decline

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Cape Verde subjected to frequent pirate attacks. Renowned pirates like Sir Francis Drake targeted the islands because of their strategic significance. This, combined with prolonged droughts and competition from other colonial ports, led to a gradual decline in Cape Verde's prosperity in the 18th century.

Quest for Independence

The 19th century brought about the abolition of the slave trade, which further diminished Cape Verde's global economic standing. However, the islands remained under Portuguese rule until the mid-20th century. As decolonization movements gained momentum across Africa, so too did the call for Cape Verdean independence. In 1951, Cape Verde became an overseas province of Portugal, and by 1975, following a peaceful negotiation process, the islands became a sovereign nation. Amílcar Cabral was a notable figure in this movement, not just for Cape Verde but also for Guinea-Bissau.

Post-Independence Era

After gaining independence in 1975, Cape Verde faced challenges common to many new nations, including establishing a stable political system and economic structure. The country initially adopted a single-party system but transitioned to multiparty democracy in 1990. Since then, Cape Verde has been cited as an example of stability and democratic governance in Africa.

Cape Verde's fascinating geography

Overview

The Cape Verde archipelago sits approximately 570 kilometers west of Senegal in the central Atlantic Ocean. Consisting of ten main islands and several smaller islets, they are spread over a combined area of around 4,033 square kilometers. The islands are of volcanic origin, testifying to a fiery birth from the ocean floor, and boast a diverse range of landscapes.

Barlavento Islands (Windward):

• Santo Antão: Characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and verdant gorges, this island offers some of the archipelago's most breathtaking scenery. The peaks here are the result of ancient volcanic activity, with the highest point reaching over 1,900 meters. The island's topography results in varied climates, with lush vegetation on the windward side and drier landscapes on the leeward side.

• São Vicente: While it hosts the vibrant cultural hub of Mindelo, São Vicente also offers a mix of sandy beaches and hilly interiors. Monte Verde, the island's highest peak, provides panoramic views of its surroundings.

• Santa Luzia: This uninhabited island, flanked by the islets of Raso and Branco, is characterized by its sandy plains and sparse vegetation. It's a designated protected area due to its ecological significance.

• São Nicolau: A blend of imposing mountains and fertile valleys, São Nicolau is dotted with quaint villages that retain their traditional charm. The Monte Gordo Natural Park, centered on the island's highest peak, is a haven for endemic species.

• Sal: As its name (Salt in English) suggests, Sal has historically been important for its salt pans. Today, its flat desert landscapes and long sandy beaches are a magnet for tourists and water sports enthusiasts.

• Boa Vista: The island's name translates to "Good View," and it's aptly named. Boa Vista offers expansive sandy landscapes, dunes, and a diverse marine ecosystem, including nesting grounds for loggerhead turtles.

Sotavento Islands (Leeward):

• Maio: Known for its forested interior, the island also possesses beautiful beaches and a rich birdlife. The salt pans near its capital, Porto Inglês, harken back to its salt-exporting past.

• Santiago: The largest of the Cape Verde islands, Santiago is geographically diverse, with mountains, plateaus, and coastal areas. The Serra da Malagueta mountain range dominates the northern part of the island. It's also historically significant, housing the former capital, Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Fogo: The island's name means "fire" in Portuguese, aptly named for the Pico do Fogo, an active stratovolcano that's also the highest peak in Cape Verde. The island's landscapes range from volcanic plains to fertile vineyards.

• Brava: The smallest of the inhabited islands, Brava is known as the "Island of Flowers" due to its comparatively verdant landscapes, nurtured by its unique microclimate.

Climate

Cape Verde enjoys a tropical oceanic climate. The archipelago doesn't experience extreme variations in temperature, with averages ranging from 24°C to 30°C throughout the year. The rainy season, though short, occurs between August and October. Due to its geographical location, Cape Verde sometimes experiences harmattan winds, carrying Saharan dust, particularly between December and March.

Cape Verde's varied geography offers a tapestry of experiences, from sun-kissed beaches to majestic peaks and lush valleys, each island telling its unique tale of nature's wonders.

Cape Verde's Economy

Cape Verde's economy is a blend of its historical roots and modern ambitions, bridging agriculture with burgeoning sectors like tourism and services. Here's a more detailed look:

Historical Background

Traditionally, Cape Verde's economy relied heavily on agriculture. However, the archipelago's arid conditions meant that only a few islands could produce staple crops consistently. Famines were recurrent throughout history due to droughts, leading to large-scale emigration and creating a diaspora that would later play a significant role in the nation's economic dynamics.

Tourism

In recent decades, tourism has grown to become the backbone of Cape Verde's economy. The government, recognizing the potential of its pristine beaches, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage, invested significantly in developing tourism infrastructure. Islands like Sal and Boa Vista have become particularly popular with European tourists. Resorts, hotels, and other tourist facilities have sprouted, providing employment opportunities and boosting local businesses.

Remittances

The Cape Verdean diaspora, spread primarily across Europe, North America, and other parts of Africa, plays a crucial role in the economy. Remittances from Cape Verdeans living abroad significantly contribute to the nation's GDP. These funds not only support families but also finance small-scale business ventures and community projects.

Fishing

Given its location in the Atlantic Ocean, fishing has always been a vital part of Cape Verde's livelihood. The country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) covers over 800,000 square kilometers, rich in marine biodiversity. Cape Verde exports fish and seafood, particularly tuna and lobster, to European and Asian markets.

Renewable Energy

With abundant sunshine and consistent wind patterns, Cape Verde has made strides in harnessing renewable energy. The government set ambitious goals to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels and has invested in solar and wind energy projects. Several islands are already benefiting from these renewable sources, decreasing the national carbon footprint and saving on energy imports.

Service Sector and Fintech

Beyond tourism, the broader service sector, including financial services and telecommunications, is growing. There's an emphasis on digital transformation, and Cape Verde aims to position itself as a fintech hub in the region.

Agriculture

While limited by its climate, agriculture remains an essential sector for domestic consumption. The islands produce crops like maize, beans, sweet potatoes, and bananas. Efforts are being made to implement sustainable farming practices and improve water conservation techniques.

Foreign Aid and Investment

Given its limited natural resources and vulnerability to external shocks like climate change, Cape Verde has historically depended on foreign aid. However, the country graduated from the UN's category of Least Developed Countries (LDC) in 2007, reflecting its economic progress. Foreign direct investment, particularly in the tourism and energy sectors, has been encouraged through favorable policies and tax incentives.

Challenges

Despite its successes, Cape Verde faces challenges like water scarcity, dependence on imports for many essential goods, and the need to diversify its economy further. Moreover, external factors, such as fluctuations in global tourism or economic downturns in countries with large Cape Verdean diaspora, can impact remittances and tourist arrivals.

The economy of Cape Verde paints a picture of resilience and adaptability. From leveraging its natural beauty to harnessing the power of its diaspora and seeking sustainable energy solutions, the archipelago constantly seeks avenues for growth and prosperity.

Culture and Traditions of Cape Verde

Cape Verde's rich cultural tapestry has been woven together by its diverse history, blending African, European, and even some South American influences. Let's delve deeper into the archipelago's culture and traditions:

Music and Dance:

• Morna: Often hailed as Cape Verde's soulful signature, morna carries themes of melancholy, nostalgia, and love. Played typically with a 12-string guitar-like instrument called cavaquinho, the violin, guitar, and sometimes accordion, it's deeply resonant. Each island has its variation, with São Vicente's style being the most recognized due to Cesária Évora.

• Funaná: Originating from Santiago, funaná is characterized by its fast-paced accordion rhythms. The dance associated with it is vibrant and involves quick footwork, a reflection of its African roots.

• Coladeira: This is a cheerful and lively genre, blending elements of morna and funaná. Its playful lyrics often touch on daily life and social commentary.

• Tabanka: Celebrated on Santiago, it's both a music genre and a festival, originally rooted in African slave traditions. The dances performed during the Tabanka festival are dedicated to saints and often involve elaborate masks and costumes.

Cuisine:

• Cachupa: There are variations of this dish depending on the region and family recipes. Cachupa Rica is the more meat-laden version, often reserved for special occasions.

• Buzio: A delicacy made from large sea snails, typically boiled and served with a spicy sauce.

• Pastel com diablo dentro: Translating to "pastry with a devil inside," this is a spicy tuna pastry and a popular snack.

• Grogue and Ponche: While grogue is the raw distilled spirit made from sugarcane, ponche is a sweeter derivative, mixed with honey, molasses, and various fruits.

Literature and Art:

• Oral Tradition: Cape Verde has a rich oral history, with stories passed down through generations, encompassing folktales, myths, and legends, reflecting both its African and Portuguese influences.

• Contemporary Scene: With the Cape Verdean diaspora, there's a blend of influences in modern artistic expression. This can be seen in contemporary art galleries in cities like Praia and Mindelo, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and digital art that delve into themes of identity, migration, and modern challenges.

Festivals:

• São João: Celebrated across various islands, this festival includes traditional music, dance, and processions. The town of Ribeira Brava in São Nicolau is renowned for its vibrant celebrations, attracting visitors from other islands.

• Gambôa Festival: Held in Praia, this music festival celebrates both traditional and contemporary Cape Verdean music, bringing together national and international artists.

Languages:

• Kriolu Variations: It's fascinating how each island, due to historical and geographical factors, developed its version of Creole. While they share similarities, natives can often identify the home island of a speaker by their Kriolu dialect.

Religious Celebrations:

• Feast of Our Lady of Light: Celebrated in September on the island of Santo Antão, this religious event attracts pilgrims from across Cape Verde. It involves processions, traditional music, and, of course, feasting.

• Feast of St. John the Baptist: Apart from its religious significance, this event is also a celebration of the summer solstice and incorporates older pre-Christian rituals.

Clothing and Adornment:

• Panu di Terra: This is a traditional woven cloth, often used by women as a headscarf or shawl. The weaving technique and patterns can vary, but it's a symbol of Cape Verdean identity.

• Contemporary Fashion: Modern Cape Verdean fashion designers often blend traditional motifs and fabrics with contemporary styles, creating a unique sartorial identity. This can be seen in urban centers, especially during fashion events and festivals.

Cape Verde's cultural traditions, while rooted in its history and geography, continue to evolve, reflecting its dynamic nature. Each island, while sharing the overarching Cape Verdean identity, offers a unique slice of this rich cultural pie. Whether it's through the haunting strains of a morna song, the tantalizing flavors of cachupa, or the vibrant hues of a local festival, Cape Verde's cultural spirit shines brilliantly.

Places to visit in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde as it's officially known, offers a varied landscape and an abundance of experiences across its archipelago. Let's explore some of the must-visit destinations and attractions within these islands:

Sal Island:

• Santa Maria: A bustling town known for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife. The pier is always lively, with fishermen bringing in the day's catch.
• Salt Mines in Pedra de Lume: An old salt extraction site situated in an extinct volcanic crater. The salt density in some pools is comparable to the Dead Sea, allowing visitors to effortlessly float.
• Shark Bay: Witness lemon sharks in their natural habitat. It's a shallow area where visitors can walk out to see the sharks up close.

Boa Vista:

• Praia de Chaves: A stunning beach with vast sand dunes and pristine waters. Ideal for relaxation and water sports.
• Viana Desert: A mini desert landscape with white sands, a striking contrast to the blue skies and a surreal place for photographs.
• Shipwreck of Cabo Santa Maria: The remnants of a Spanish shipwreck from 1968, now a hauntingly beautiful landmark on the northern coast.

Santiago:

• Praia: The capital city, brimming with history. Visit the Plateau, the city's historical center, with its colonial-era architecture and vibrant marketplaces.
• Cidade Velha: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it was the first European colonial outpost in the tropics. The ruins of the cathedral and the fort tell tales of a bygone era.
• Serra Malagueta National Park: A paradise for hikers, offering panoramic views of the island and a glimpse of endemic flora and fauna.

São Vicente:

• Mindelo: Often dubbed the cultural heart of Cape Verde, Mindelo is renowned for its music, art, and the annual Carnival. The harbor and the historic buildings lend the city a picturesque charm.
• Monte Verde: The highest point on the island provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the sea.

Santo Antão:

• Paul Valley: A lush and fertile valley with terraced fields, it's perfect for treks, offering striking views and paths winding through quaint villages.
• Ribeira Grande: A scenic coastal town with colonial charm, cobbled streets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Fogo:

• Pico do Fogo: The highest peak in Cape Verde, it's an active volcano that last erupted in 2014. The surrounding landscape is moon-like with black volcanic soil, creating unique vineyards.
• São Filipe: A historic town with colorful colonial houses and a laid-back vibe. The annual Bandeira de São Filipe festival is a major attraction.

Maio:

• Praia Ponta Preta: A secluded beach with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Ideal for a quiet escape.
• Maios Salt Marshes: Hosting a variety of bird species, it's a haven for birdwatchers.

Brava:

• Nova Sintra: A charming town with well-preserved colonial buildings, gardens, and cobbled streets. The cool climate and scenic views make it a visitor favorite.
• Fajã de Água: A stunning bay with clear waters, ideal for swimming and diving.

Every island in Cape Verde offers a unique character and set of experiences. From vibrant cultural towns to tranquil beaches, from rugged hiking trails to serene desert landscapes, the archipelago caters to travelers of all tastes. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, an adventurer, or someone seeking relaxation, Cape Verde promises unforgettable moments.

Why Invest in Cape Verde?

1. Growing Tourism Sector:

• Tourist Hotspot: With its unique blend of African and Portuguese cultures, pristine beaches, and diverse landscapes, Cape Verde is quickly becoming a go-to destination for European and global tourists.
• Potential for Expansion: Despite its rising popularity, many of Cape Verde's islands remain underdeveloped in terms of tourism infrastructure, offering significant potential for new projects.

2. Stable Political and Economic Climate:

• Good Governance: Cape Verde is known for its stable democracy, transparent governance, and respect for the rule of law, making it one of the most stable countries in the region.
• Consistent Economic Growth: Over the past decade, the country has witnessed consistent economic growth, mainly driven by tourism, remittances, and foreign aid.

3. Strategic Location:

• Gateway to Africa: Located off the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde acts as a gateway between Europe, Africa, and the Americas, presenting opportunities in logistics, shipping, and trade.
• Growing Aviation Hub: The archipelago's increasing connectivity makes it an ideal transit point, and there's potential for further development in the aviation sector.

4. Investment Incentives:

• Tax Benefits: The government offers tax incentives for foreign direct investment in priority sectors, including tourism, renewable energy, and fisheries.
• Free Trade Zones: Special economic zones provide tax breaks, duty-free access, and other advantages to businesses.

5. Renewable Energy Potential:

• Wind and Solar Energy: Given its geographical location, Cape Verde has abundant wind and solar resources. The government is pushing for 100% renewable energy by 2025, presenting a vast scope for green energy projects.

6. Fisheries and Sea Resources:

• Rich Marine Life: The surrounding Atlantic waters have a wealth of marine resources, providing potential in fisheries, aquaculture, and related industries.
• Sustainable Practices: There's an emphasis on sustainable fishing practices, preserving marine biodiversity, and ensuring long-term profitability.

7. Real Estate and Property Development:

• Growth Opportunities: As tourism grows, there's increasing demand for resorts, hotels, and vacation homes. The real estate market, especially beachfront properties, is witnessing rising interest from foreign buyers.
• Infrastructure Development: With ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, new areas are opening up for development.

8. Skilled Workforce:

• Education Focus: The government prioritizes education, leading to a relatively skilled and multilingual workforce, especially in urban areas.
• Training Programs: With an emphasis on vocational training, there are efforts to match skill development with industry needs.

9. ICT and Telecommunications:

• Digital Ambitions: The country aims to become a digitally advanced nation in the region. Investments in IT infrastructure, e-governance, and digital services can find a conducive environment here.
• Connectivity Initiatives: There are ongoing projects to enhance internet connectivity and mobile penetration, offering avenues for digital businesses.

10. Untapped Sectors:

• Agriculture: While Cape Verde has limited arable land, there's potential in specific niches like organic farming, horticulture, and agro-processing.
• Arts and Culture: With its rich cultural heritage, there's scope for cultural festivals, music events, and art retreats to attract global audiences.

In summary, Cape Verde offers a blend of opportunities that cater to various investment appetites. The combination of its natural beauty, stable governance, strategic position, and development-oriented policies makes it a compelling destination for discerning investors.