The European Union (EU) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), through EIB Global, have signed a €34 million grant for the rehabilitation and expansion of Cape Verde’s main ports and largest shipyard. This contribution is in addition to €114 million in EIB financing agreed in 2024, bringing the total investment to €148 million under the Global Gateway initiative and the Cape Verde Blue Economy Sustainable Ports Facility programme.

The project aims to modernise the maritime transport system, improve connectivity between islands and support trade, tourism and the blue economy, while reducing emissions through more sustainable infrastructure. The initiative is aligned with EU–Cape Verde development and cooperation strategies and is part of a broader collaboration under Global Gateway, which has already mobilised more than €400 million in investments in the country.

Main infrastructure and planned actions

The programme includes a series of key interventions in different ports:

• Porto Grande (Mindelo): expansion through a new breakwater and quay, enlarged container handling capacity, and modernised infrastructure for cargo and fisheries. Environmental investments include the installation of onshore power supply at the Mindelo cruise terminal and solar energy systems across several ports.
• Palmeira Port: modernisation to enable the reception of larger vessels, improved environmental management, and better conditions for the safe and efficient landing of fish, directly benefiting local fishers and the value chain.
• Porto Novo Port: expansion to strengthen inter-island and international maritime connectivity.
• The rehabilitation of CABNAVE is in the pipeline, alongside potential port investments in port of Praia.

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