Country Profile: Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean west of Senegal, is composed of ten volcanic islands with a total area of 4,033 square kilometers. The country has a diverse cultural history stemming from Portuguese colonization and African influences, reflected in its language and music. With a population estimated at 611,014 in 2024, Cabo Verde boasts a stable parliamentary republic government that has evolved into a multi-party democracy since its independence in 1975. The economy is heavily reliant on tourism and remittances, contributing to its status as a middle-income developing nation.
Geography
Cabo Verde consists of nine inhabited volcanic islands characterized by rugged terrain and a warm, dry climate. The eastern islands are notably arid, while the western islands receive more rainfall, allowing for higher population densities in those areas. The country has significant natural resources, including salt and fish, while its strategic location makes it an important maritime waypoint.
- 965 km of coastline.
- Highest point is Mt. Fogo at 2,829 m.
- 0 km of land boundaries, being an island nation.
- 19.6% of land designated as agricultural as of 2023.
People and Society
The population of Cabo Verde is approximately 611,014, consisting predominantly of Creole (Mulatto) descent with a rich blend of African and Portuguese heritage. The official language is Portuguese, alongside the widely spoken Crioulo. The society is predominantly Roman Catholic, and the country has a relatively young demographic profile with a median age of 29.3 years.
- 68% of the population lives in urban areas as of 2023.
- Life expectancy stands at 74.3 years (2024).
- Literacy rate reached 88.5% in 2024.
- Birth rate is 17.51 births/1,000 population (2025).
- The population growth rate is 1.12% (2025).
Economy
Cabo Verde's economy is classified as stable and developing, primarily driven by the tourism sector and remittances from its expatriate communities. The GDP is forecasted to grow steadily, with significant contributions from the services sector.
- Real GDP (PPP) estimated at $5.2 billion in 2024.
- Unemployment rate projected at 11.9% (2024).
- Poverty rate estimated at 35.2% (2015).
- Remittances account for 12.1% of GDP (2024).
- Inflation rate is expected to be 1% in 2024.
Government
Cabo Verde is governed as a parliamentary republic with a multi-party system, which has remained stable since its shift to democracy in 1990. The president is elected by popular vote, while the prime minister is appointed from the National Assembly. The country observes a legal system based on civil law modeled after Portugal.
- Capital: Praia, located at coordinates 14 55 N, 23 31 W.
- President: Jose Maria Pereira Neves (since November 2021).
- Next presidential election expected in October 2026.
- Legislature: Unicameral National Assembly with 72 seats.
Military and Security
The Cabo Verdean Armed Forces maintain a small military presence focused on external defense and internal security collaboration. The military capabilities are somewhat limited and rely on a small number of personnel and older equipment.
- Active personnel estimated between 1,000-1,500 (2025).
- Military expenditures at 0.6% of GDP (2024).
- Voluntary military service age begins at 17.
Energy
Cabo Verde has made strides in electrification, with a majority of its population having access to electricity. The country's energy generation is primarily from fossil fuels, complemented by solar and wind sources.
- Electricity access for 97.1% of the population (2022).
- Installed electricity generation capacity is 200,000 kW (2023).
- Renewable sources account for 28.8% of installed capacity (2023).
Environment
Cabo Verde faces various environmental challenges, including water shortages and soil erosion exacerbated by climate variability. The country is committed to several international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues.
- Deforestation and desertification are key environmental concerns.
- Carbon dioxide emissions estimated at 714,000 metric tonnes (2023).
- Total water resources estimated at 300 million cubic meters (2022).
Transportation
Cabo Verde's geographic structure necessitates reliance on air and sea transport. The country has several airports and a growing merchant marine, although its port infrastructure is limited.
- 10 airports by 2025.
- 44 merchant vessels in service (2023).
- Key ports include Porto da Praia and Porto Grande.
Communications
Cabo Verde has established a modern telecommunications network with a growing number of internet users and mobile subscriptions.
- 74% of the population are internet users (2023).
- 590,354 mobile subscriptions, translating to about 112 per 100 inhabitants (2024).
- 60,000 fixed-line subscriptions as of 2023.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 611,014 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 4,033 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $5.2 billion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 11.9% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 74.3 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Literacy Rate | 88.5% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 17.51 births/1,000 | Estimated for 2025 |
| Electricity Access | 97.1% | Estimated for 2022 |
| Total Water Resources | 300 million cubic meters | Estimated for 2022 |
| Military Expenditures | 0.6% of GDP | Estimated for 2024 |
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