Country Profile: Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 500 km off the west coast of Africa, known for its steep, rugged volcanic terrain and a temperate climate. The country, which has a population of around 611,000, benefits from a stable parliamentary republic government and a growing economy primarily driven by tourism and remittances from expatriates. Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975, Cabo Verde has established a robust democratic political framework and has become one of Africa's most stable nations.
Geography
Cabo Verde consists of nine inhabited islands with a total area of 4,033 square kilometers, characterized by rocky and volcanic terrain. The islands have a diverse climate, with eastern islands being significantly drier and the western islands receiving more precipitation. The nation has no land boundaries, and its strategic location enhances its role in maritime navigation.
- 965 km of coastline
- 12 nm territorial sea
- 200 nm exclusive economic zone
- 2,829 m highest point at Mt. Fogo
- Vulnerable to prolonged droughts and seasonal winds
People and Society
As of 2024, Cabo Verde has a population of approximately 611,014, comprising mainly Creole (71%) and African (28%) ethnic groups. The official language is Portuguese, with Crioulo also widely spoken. The society is primarily Roman Catholic, with other religions represented. Cabo Verde features a youthful population, with a median age of 28.8 years.
- 68% urban population
- 1.16% population growth rate (2024)
- 74.3 years life expectancy at birth
- 88.5% literacy rate
- 17.9 births per 1,000 population (2024)
Economy
Cabo Verde has a stable, developing economy with a GDP of approximately $5.2 billion in 2024, largely driven by the tourism sector. The country has faced challenges due to high reliance on foreign remittances and aid, but significant growth has been observed post-COVID. Agriculture constitutes a small part of the economy, with tourism increasingly becoming a key economic driver.
- 7.3% GDP growth rate (2024)
- 69.4% of GDP from services (2024)
- 22.9% of GDP from government consumption
- 11.9% unemployment rate (2024)
- 35.2% of the population below the poverty line (2015)
Government
Cabo Verde operates as a parliamentary republic, with a president serving as head of state and a prime minister as head of government. The legislative branch is unicameral, comprised of the National Assembly. The country upholds a civil law system, influenced by Portuguese law, and maintains a strong commitment to human rights and democratic governance.
- President: Jose Maria Pereira Neves (since 2021)
- Prime Minister: Jose Ulisses Correia e Silva (since 2016)
- 72 seats in the National Assembly
- 18 years voting age
- Independence achieved on July 5, 1975
Military and Security
Cabo Verde's military, the Cabo Verdean Armed Forces (FACV), consists of approximately 1,000-1,500 personnel tasked with external defense and internal security collaboration. The country allocates 0.6% of its GDP to military expenditures and mandates service for individuals aged 18-35.
- 0.6% of GDP spent on military (2024)
- 24-month conscript service obligation
- Age for voluntary military service is 17
- Monitoring and patrolling of air and maritime spaces
Energy
The energy sector in Cabo Verde is transitioning, with a goal of increasing renewable sources. Approximately 97.1% of the population has access to electricity, primarily generated from fossil fuels, along with a growing contribution from solar and wind.
- 200,000 kW installed generating capacity (2023)
- 400 million kWh of electricity consumed (2023)
- 71.1% of energy from fossil fuels
- 14.2% from solar sources
Environment
Cabo Verde faces various environmental challenges including deforestation, water shortages, and soil erosion. The government participates in numerous international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues.
- 132,600 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024)
- 17.4% of waste recycled (2022)
- 300 million cubic meters of total renewable water resources
- 714,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions (2023)
Transportation
Cabo Verde's transportation infrastructure includes 10 airports and a small merchant marine fleet. The country relies on both air and sea routes for connectivity, with significant efforts to enhance port facilities.
- 44 vessels in the merchant marine (2023)
- 2 main ports (2024)
- 10 airports (2025)
Communications
The communication sector in Cabo Verde is developing, with a considerable percentage of the population having access to mobile and internet services. The nation maintains a range of broadcasting services, including state-run and private channels.
- 590,000 mobile cellular subscriptions (2023)
- 74% of the population are internet users (2023)
- 60,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 611,014 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 4,033 sq km | |
| GDP | $5.2 billion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 11.9% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 17.9 births/1,000 population | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 74.3 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 88.5% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Electricity Access | 97.1% | Estimated for 2022 |
| Urban Population | 68% | Estimated for 2023 |
| Military Expenditures | 0.6% of GDP | Estimated for 2024 |
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