Cape Verde & Japan: Toward Fishing Industrialization
Cape Verde is looking to transform its fishing industry from a traditional trade into an industrial powerhouse, and it wants Japan to lead the way. Following a significant donation of maritime equipment, the archipelago’s Minister of the Sea, Jorge Santos, called for a deepened strategic partnership that moves beyond simple aid toward large-scale industrialization.
A Shift Toward Industrial Fishing
Speaking on the island of São Vicente, Santos emphasized that the future of Cape Verde’s blue economy depends on modernization. “We want to have Japan as a partner for the industrialization of fishing in Cape Verde,” Santos stated. He clarified that the vision extends beyond merely allowing Japanese vessels to operate in local waters; the goal is to foster direct collaboration between businesses from both nations.
“It is a sector where the necessary equipment, science, and knowledge exist, and the market scale is already there,” the minister noted, signaling that Cape Verde is ready to scale its operations with Japanese expertise and capital.
Strengthening Economic Ties
The relationship between the two nations is already anchored by an active fishing agreement. Currently, 35 Japanese vessels utilize up to 42 licenses to operate at least 18 miles off the Cape Verdean coast. However, Santos is pushing for a more diversified economic bond.
“Above all, the country wants to see strong action from Japan in tourism, technology, and other business opportunities,” the minister said, highlighting the broader potential of the “blue economy.”
Immediate Boost for Local Fishing Communities
The minister’s remarks followed the official delivery of over €2 million (approx. $2.1 million) in equipment donated by the Japanese government. The package is designed to modernize the archipelago’s artisanal fleet and improve the supply chain. The donation includes:
- 100 outboard motors
- Three ice-making machines and 50 thermal preservation boxes
- Two refrigerated trucks for transport
- Two seven-meter fishing vessels
The Japanese Ambassador to Cape Verde, Izawa Osamu, oversaw the delivery. The equipment is earmarked for fishermen’s and vendors’ associations across the islands of São Nicolau, Brava, and Santo Antão, where it is expected to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality of fish arriving at markets.
Ongoing Food Security Support
The partnership continues to expand into other critical areas. Following the equipment handover, the two nations are scheduled to sign a new agreement on Friday worth €913,000. These funds are specifically allocated for food assistance programs within the archipelago, further solidifying Japan’s role as a key development partner for the West African nation.
Image: Pexels – Mike van Schoonderwalt
