Cape Verde President Honors Leaders for 50th Independence
In a ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Cape Verde’s independence, President José Maria Neves has honored a group of distinguished religious leaders for their “decisive and fundamental” contributions to the nation’s moral and social fabric.
Top Honors for Cardinal and Church Leaders
According to a decree published today in the Official Gazette, the President awarded the Order of the Dragon Tree, First Class—one of the country’s highest honors—to Cardinal Arlindo Gomes Furtado, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Santiago, and Eugénio Rosa Duarte, General Superintendent Emeritus of the Church of the Nazarene.
The presidency highlighted that the work of both the Catholic Church and the Church of the Nazarene has been vital during times of crisis. Their efforts have specifically helped promote core social values, such as family integrity and the protection of children.
Cardinal Furtado, who retired in February at age 75 after leading the Diocese of Santiago since 2009, was praised for a life of “dedication to the well-being of God’s people and the country.” Meanwhile, Eugénio Duarte was recognized as a global pillar for his denomination, having reached the highest leadership position of the Nazarene church worldwide.
“The legacy of both transcends the strictly religious sphere,” the decree states. “It reflects the promotion of essential human values, such as solidarity, justice, and a sense of cultural belonging.”
Recognizing Decades of Service
The President also awarded the Volcano Medal, First Class, to several other prominent figures of faith. The recipients include Pastors Emanuel Araújo and Jorge Barros, as well as Priest José Constantina Bento. Priest Boaventura Lopes was honored with the medal posthumously.
Expanding the Circle of Merit
The 50th-anniversary honors extended beyond the clergy to include educational institutions and individual citizens who have served the Cape Verdean diaspora. First-class medals of merit were awarded to three historic schools: Ludgero Lima High School, Domingos Ramos High School, and the Mindelo Technical School.
Additionally, Joaquim Honorato Neves received a merit medal for his “notable spirit of service” in improving healthcare access for Cape Verdeans living in Portugal.
Cape Verde officially marked five decades of independence from Portugal on July 5, 2025. These decorations conclude a year-long program of celebrations designed to recognize the figures and institutions that have shaped the archipelago since its sovereignty was established.
Image: Pexels – Antonio Prado
