On Wednesday 7 September, the EU and the government of Cape Verde inaugurated a modernised port on the island of Maio (in the south of the archipelago), with the financial support of the Global Gateway, the EU’s strategic investment plan in major infrastructure in partner countries to counterbalance China’s New Silk Road.
The extension and upgrade of this port is a key element of a €42 million blending project, co-financed by the EU, the EIB, the African Development Bank and the German KfW bank, which also includes works on the port of the island of Sal as well as accompanying measures to strengthen municipal services in Maio.
In addition, several Member States (Spain, France, Luxembourg, Portugal) are supporting green growth in Maio by investing in desalination plants, renewable energy, vocational training, small businesses and municipal services, in particular waste management.
“It’s a crucial milestone for boosting sustainable connectivity and green growth. Cape Verde will be able to welcome increasing numbers of tourists while maintaining the highest environmental and social standards”, said the European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen.
The ‘Global Gateway’ for Africa, endowed with €203 million from the EU budget for 2021-2024, focuses on green growth for jobs, smart and sustainable cities, good governance and security (see EUROPE 12924/21). (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)