World Bank Grants $40M to Cape Verde After Fatal Storms
The World Bank has approved an additional $40 million (€34.7 million) in funding to help Cape Verde recover from the devastating impact of the 2025 storm season, the island nation’s government announced on Wednesday.
The package, which includes $30 million from the World Bank’s Crisis Response Window (CRW), is earmarked for reconstruction efforts and priority investments following a series of weather-related tragedies that struck the archipelago last year.
Rebuilding After Deadly Floods
According to the Ministry of Finance, the new capital will address the urgent reconstruction needs triggered by two major events: the catastrophic floods of August 2025 in the Barlavento islands and the torrential rains that hit Santiago in November. These disasters claimed ten lives—nine during Storm Erin on São Vicente and one during flash flooding on Santiago.
Beyond immediate repairs, the government noted that the funds will cover budget shortfalls caused by logistical constraints and the rising costs of climate-proofing new infrastructure. Officials emphasized that initial cost estimates had to be adjusted to ensure all new designs meet higher climate resilience standards.
A Growing Climate Threat
The investment comes as Cape Verde faces increasing vulnerability to extreme weather. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently noted that 2025 likely ranked as one of the hottest years on record, with rising ocean temperatures fueling more intense storms and accelerating sea-level rise across the Atlantic.
By bolstering urban infrastructure, the government aims to better protect its citizens from future volatility. The project focuses on ensuring that bridges, roads, and housing can withstand the intensifying weather patterns that are becoming the “new normal” for island nations.
Image: Pexels – Kelly
