Country Information on Cape Verde

Terrain The islands of Cape Verde are of volcanic origin and predominantly consist of basalt and phonolite formations. The islands in the east right next to the mainland (Sal, Boa Vista and Maio) do not exceed 400 m and are partly covered by sand dunes, those in the west are more mountainous and dissected by valleys, steeply descending to the sea. Fogo has the islands' highest peak, Pico do Cano (2829), which is the only still active volcano in the archipelago. Fogo was rocked by volcanic eruptions in 1951 and 1995. Climate The climate of the islands is largely shaped by the dry north-east trade wind. When this wind predominates, it frequently causes dry periods that last for months. Precipitation usually falls between the end of July and the beginning of November, when the warm, humid air masses of the south-west monsoon reach the islands. Since precipitation varies considerably, there might also be several dry years in a row. Owing to its latitude, however, average monthly temperatures are rather high throughout the year and range from 22°C in February to 27°C in September. Fauna/Flora The islands' original vegetation has largely been destroyed by improper land use such as cultivation of crops on steep slopes or overgrazing of livestock. This has partly resulted in soil erosion and desertification. In the islands' flora plants prevail that are adapted to dry habitats. Among these are thorn bushes and aloe. Eucalyptus trees and acacias are commonly used for the reforestation of areas that were formerly covered by woods. The islands' fauna contains a small number of species, except for the larger number of birds and fishes. Characteristic are rodents, lizards, geckos and wild goats. History/Politics The islands of Cape Verde were uninhabited but known to Senegalese fishermen before the first Europeans landed there in 1456. In 1460 the Portuguese claimed the archipelago and commenced settlement. In 1495 the islands were declared possession of the Portuguese Crown and subsequently slaves were brought from Africa to be used in agriculture. Owing to increasing prosperity the islands became a favourite target for pirates and freebooters from different countries. There were several attacks in the centuries that followed. When the slave trade was finally abolished in 1876, the importance of the Cape Verde islands dwindled. Like other Portuguese possessions in Africa the isles were not treated as a colony but made an overseas province in 1951. Unlike in other regions there was relatively little enthusiasm for independence in Cape Verde before the seventies. In 1974 the archipelago was granted the right to self-determination and on 5 July 1975 the country became independent. Under its first president Aristides Pereira Cape Verde was a one-party state that was neutral as regarded foreign affairs but depended on Western help to a large degree. In 1990 reforms were introduced, such as the establishment of a multiparty system. Consequently, the first presidential elections were held, which were won by António Mascarenhas in 1991. The ruling Movement for Democracy pursues a policy that tends to free enterprise. Economy Agriculture and fishing play a major role in Cape Verde's economy. Maize, beans, cassava, coffee, sugar cane, and bananas are the most important agricultural products. Despite intensive measures to support the agrarian sector during the last few decades, productivity is still rather low owing to water shortage and soil erosion. Great pains are taken to halt progressive erosion. Therefore reforestation is promoted and cultivation on terraced hillsides is spreading. Mining is of rather low importance, since the islands are not wealthy in minerals. Volcanic tuff, sea salt, lime, and kaolin do have some importance, though. Among the industrial firms that have been established are sugar refineries, companies processing fish or tobacco, and distilleries. More than 50% of the proceeds of exports are achieved through fish products. Among the imported goods there are food, machines, vehicles and chemical products. The balance of trade has a large deficit. Culture Statutory holidays of Cape Verde are New Year's Day, National Heroes' Day (20 January), Women's Day (8 March), Labour Day (1 May), Children's Day (1 June), Independence Day (5 July), All Saints Day (1 November), and Christmas (25 December). Where carnival celebrations play a major role, some regions even have an additional holiday in February. National Heroes' Day is dedicated to the remembrance of freedom fighters like Amilcar Cabrals and other war heroes. Independence Day is officially celebrated every five years only. Cape Verde is home to a variety of musical styles. One of the most popular is the foot-stomping funana, a dance beat popular in Praia and other cities and towns; morna, the national song form, typically slow, moody and in a minor key; and coladeira, a fast-moving, fluffy style of dance music. The country's best-known musician is Cesaria Evora.