Country Profile: Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, consists of ten volcanic islands with a unique blend of African and Portuguese cultures. With a population of approximately 611,000, the country has a diverse demographic primarily of Creole descent. Its economy is classified as a stable, middle-income developing one, heavily reliant on tourism and foreign remittances. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Cabo Verde is notable for its political stability and commitment to democratic principles since gaining independence in 1975.
Geography
Cabo Verde is situated in Western Africa, approximately 500 kilometers off the coast of Senegal. Its total land area is about 4,033 square kilometers, characterized by steep, rugged terrain and a warm, dry climate. The country features a coastline of 965 kilometers, which plays a significant role in its maritime economy.
- Highest Point: Mt. Fogo at 2,829 m
- Lowest Point: Atlantic Ocean at 0 m
- Climate: Temperate with erratic precipitation
- Natural Resources: Salt, limestone, fish, and clay
People and Society
As of 2024, Cabo Verde's population is estimated at 611,014, with a majority identifying as Creole. The predominant language is Portuguese, alongside the local Crioulo. The society is marked by a significant Roman Catholic majority, with a growing number of other religious affiliations. Urbanization has led to approximately 68% of the population living in urban areas.
- Population Growth Rate: 1.12% (2025 est.)
- Median Age: 29.3 years (2025 est.)
- Literacy Rate: 88.5% (2024 est.)
- Life Expectancy: 74.3 years (2024 est.)
Economy
Cabo Verde has a growing economy, heavily influenced by tourism and foreign remittances, with a projected GDP of $5.2 billion in 2024. The country has made strides in reducing poverty through development plans. The service sector dominates, accounting for nearly 69% of the GDP.
- Real GDP Growth Rate: 7.3% (2024 est.)
- GDP per Capita: $9,900 (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 11.9% (2024 est.)
- Poverty Rate: 35.2% of the population below the poverty line (2015 est.)
Government
Cabo Verde is a parliamentary republic, with a constitution established in 1992. The current president is Jose Maria Pereira Neves, who was elected in 2021. The governance structure allows for a multi-party system, fostering political stability despite previous one-party rule until 1990.
- Capital: Praia
- Administrative Divisions: 22 municipalities
- Suffrage: Universal at 18 years of age
- Next Election: October 2026
Military and Security
The Cabo Verdean Armed Forces (FACV) consist of the National Guard and Coast Guard, with approximately 1,000-1,500 active personnel. Military expenditures account for about 0.6% of GDP, reflecting the country's focus on external defense and internal security in collaboration with local police forces.
- Military Personnel Strength: 1,000-1,500 (2025 est.)
- Service Age: Voluntary at age 17, selective for ages 18-35
- External Defense Responsibility: Yes, with internal security support
Energy
Cabo Verde's energy sector is increasingly reliant on renewable sources, with electricity access at approximately 97.1% of the population. The country is working to enhance its energy capacity, currently focusing on solar and wind energy.
- Installed Capacity: 200,000 kW (2023 est.)
- Consumption: 400 million kWh (2023 est.)
- Fossil Fuels Contribution: 71.1% of total capacity (2023 est.)
Environment
Cabo Verde faces multiple environmental challenges, including deforestation, water shortages, and desertification. The government is a party to several international environmental agreements aimed at addressing climate change and protecting biodiversity.
- Natural Hazards: Prolonged droughts and volcanic activity
- Carbon Emissions: 714,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
- Municipal Waste Recycling Rate: 17.4% (2022 est.)
Transportation
The transport infrastructure includes 10 airports and a merchant marine fleet with 44 vessels. The main ports are Porto da Praia and Porto Grande, facilitating trade and tourism.
- Airports: 10 (2025)
- Merchant Marine Strength: 44 vessels (2023)
- Civil Aircraft Registration Code: D4
Communications
Cabo Verde has a growing telecommunications network, with a significant percentage of the population utilizing mobile services and internet connectivity. Fixed lines are less common, but mobile subscriptions exceed those of fixed lines dramatically.
- Mobile Subscriptions: 590,354 (2023)
- Internet Users: 74% of the population (2023 est.)
- Broadband Fixed Subscriptions: 38,000 (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 611,014 (2024 est.) | Total estimated population |
| Area | 4,033 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $5.2 billion (2024 est.) | Real GDP (PPP) |
| Unemployment Rate | 11.9% (2024 est.) | % of labor force seeking employment |
| Birth Rate | 17.51 births/1,000 population (2025 est.) | Number of births per 1,000 individuals |
| Life Expectancy | 74.3 years (2024 est.) | Average life span |
| Electricity Access | 97.1% (2022 est.) | % of population with electricity access |
| Literacy Rate | 88.5% (2024 est.) | Total population literacy |
| Urban Population | 68% (2023) | % of total population living in urban areas |
| Environmental CO2 Emissions | 714,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.) | Total CO2 emissions |
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