Start of Santa Maria pontoon re-certification in Cape Verde commences next week

The World Bank Group is making its first official visit to Cape Verde, marking a significant moment in the partnership between the institution and the African island nation. The visit, taking place from September 5-9, is led by World Bank Group executive directors and accompanied by the regional director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Olivier Buyoya, and the director of the World Bank for Cape Verde, Keiko Miwa.

The visit comes at a crucial juncture in the relationship. The World Bank has agreed to fund the rehabilitation of the Santa Maria Pier on Sal Island with $10 million (8.5 million euros). The contract for the project was signed on February 8, 2023, and the pier, partially destroyed last year, is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Indira Campos, the World Bank group's representative for Cape Verde, provided details about the project. Upon completion in 18 months, the pier will be extended by more than 70 meters, reaching a length of 120 meters. It will feature areas for kiosks, boats, and bathrooms, as well as a space for the sale of handicrafts.

Moreover, the project will include spaces for conservation and storage of fishermen's equipment, a fish handlers, fishmongers, and fishermen area, and a dedicated space for the sale of fresh fish. This redeveloped pier is expected to boost local tourism and fishing industries, providing economic opportunities for the residents of Sal Island.

The executive directors' visit also includes trips to other islands, including São Vicente, Santo Antão, and Santiago, as part of an effort to deepen the Council's knowledge about the country's development priorities, challenges, and opportunities.

In addition to the Santa Maria Pier project, the World Bank is preparing a new partnership framework with Cape Verde for submission in the next fiscal year. This framework is expected to further strengthen the relationship between the institution and the country, supporting sustainable economic growth and development in Cape Verde.