Cape Verde to Revive Stalled Municipal & Social Projects
The Cape Verdean government has pledged to “immediately” resume a series of public works projects and social programs that had stalled under the previous administration. Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho announced the move on Thursday following a comprehensive round of consultations with municipal leaders.
Honoring Past Pledges
The decision targets a collection of memorandums of understanding signed between local municipal councils and the former executive branch. These agreements cover vital areas such as housing rehabilitation and support for the country’s primary economic sectors. Prime Minister Carvalho noted that while some projects were suspended midway, others never even broke ground.
“We have identified needs within these municipalities that align perfectly with our governance program,” Carvalho told reporters. “We are going to take those signed agreements and implement them immediately.”
For projects that were never initiated, the government will conduct a swift review to evaluate their current relevance before deciding whether to proceed.
New Investments in Infrastructure and Health
During the talks, mayors outlined a broad range of local priorities, including the construction of kindergartens, improvements to rural access roads, and the modernization of urban and sports facilities. Territorial planning and urban redevelopment were also highlighted as urgent concerns.
In a major boost to public health and social services, the government announced the acquisition of 22 new ambulances—ensuring that every municipality in the country has at least one emergency vehicle. Additionally, the Ministry of Family is working with partners to secure 22 specialized vehicles designed to transport the elderly and citizens with reduced mobility.
Funding and Future Planning
Prime Minister Carvalho indicated that some of the most pressing local needs could be addressed through a 2026 supplementary budget. However, he clarified that larger, long-term infrastructure projects would be integrated into the upcoming 2027 State Budget.
Beyond local infrastructure, the executive branch plans to advance national initiatives focused on public security, civil protection, and environmental conservation.
This initial round of consultations involved nine of Cape Verde’s 22 municipalities. Meetings with the remaining mayors are expected to follow shortly. This move marks the first major coordinated effort between the central government and local authorities since the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) took office following the legislative elections on May 17.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
