The Cape Verdean diaspora in Luxembourg is a small but deeply rooted and influential community that has made lasting contributions to the country’s social and cultural fabric. Since the early 1960s, Cape Verdeans began migrating to Luxembourg, primarily for employment opportunities in sectors like construction, domestic work, and later, in public services. Over time, they have established one of the most visible African communities in the Grand Duchy.
In Luxembourg, the Cape Verdean community has maintained a strong connection to its homeland while integrating into Luxembourgish society. Despite language and cultural differences, Cape Verdeans have navigated life in a multilingual and multicultural country, contributing to its diversity. Today, Esch-sur-Alzette and Luxembourg City are home to some of the largest Cape Verdean populations in the country.
Cultural preservation remains a priority for the diaspora. Traditional Cape Verdean music like morna, funaná, and batuque, as well as cuisine and communal gatherings, are actively celebrated. Community associations and cultural groups organize events such as Independence Day celebrations, religious festivals, and concerts, which serve to bring people together and pass on traditions to younger generations.
Despite being a relatively small community, Cape Verdeans in Luxembourg have built a tight-knit support network. Many Cape Verdeans are now second or third-generation citizens, fluent in Luxembourgish, French, and Portuguese, and active in education, politics, and business. Through community initiatives and intercultural projects, the Cape Verdean diaspora continues to play a key role in promoting inclusion, identity, and social cohesion.
The Cape Verdean presence in Luxembourg is a powerful example of how a migrant community can integrate while preserving its heritage. It reflects the resilience, solidarity, and pride of a people who have built a home away from home while remaining deeply connected to their roots.
