The Czech-Cape Verdean Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the development of Cape Verde, which is why I closely follow events that may be significant for the Republic of Cape Verde. One such event that caught my attention was the international tourism fair in Germany, ITB Berlin 2025, where Cape Verde’s appeal as a tourist destination was once again reaffirmed. I came across an article published in Expresso das Ilhas, which made me reflect. You can read the original article HERE.
The article highlights that Cape Verde was the second best-selling destination at the event hosted by the travel agency Abreu. At first glance, this seems like fantastic news for the country’s tourism industry. But a fundamental question arises: what does this mean for ordinary Cape Verdeans?
In recent years, we have witnessed a massive boom in tourism, particularly the all-inclusive model. Hotels are springing up everywhere, statistics show impressive results, and the figures look promising. But when we look at the daily lives of ordinary people, where is this progress?
- Do young Cape Verdeans have more opportunities today?
- Has the healthcare system improved? Are there more hospitals and accessible services?
- Is economic growth reflected in urban infrastructure?
- Have basic hygiene and sanitation improved?
- Do Cape Verdeans who don’t work in tourism feel this progress in their lives?
Unfortunately, the reality is that despite the great figures and optimistic news, the direct impact on most people’s quality of life remains uncertain. If tourism generates so much revenue, why are there still communities without basic sanitation, young people without jobs, overcrowded hospitals, and housing problems?
I am not here to criticise or oppose tourism—on the contrary! Tourism can and should be a huge opportunity for the country. But it is essential that all Cape Verdeans benefit from it, not just certain sectors of the economy.
As a Cape Verdean, I have the right to ask questions, demand transparency, and, above all, insist that development is not just an attractive statistic in reports but something that every Cape Verdean can truly experience in their daily life.
Cape Verde deserves more than just positive statistics. It deserves real, sustainable, and fair progress. 🇨🇻 There is still time to change this for the better.
Author: Eng. Mónica Sofia Duarte, MBA
Source: Expresso das Ilhas
