akins station

Praia News

World news Affecting Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde has been elected to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member for 2025-2026, marking a historic milestone for the archipelago. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva attended the G20 Compact with Africa summit in Berlin, securing €50 million in renewable energy investments. The World Tourism Organization names Cabo Verde the "Best Island Destination" for the third consecutive year, with visitor numbers up 18% from 2024.

The EU has pledged €30 million to combat illegal fishing in Cabo Verdean waters, while the African Development Bank approved a $20 million loan for climate resilience projects.

Economic News

Cabo Verde’s economy grows by 5.1% in Q2 2025, driven by tourism, tech startups, and remittances. The Cabo Verdean escudo (CVE) remains pegged to the euro at 110.27:1, ensuring stability. Inflation drops to 3.2%, the lowest in West Africa.

The Praia Tech Hub has attracted 15 new startups, creating 500 jobs in fintech and green energy. The Port of Praia expansion is 70% complete, set to boost trade by late 2026. Unemployment falls to 10.5%, though youth joblessness remains high at 25%.

Political News

Prime Minister Correia e Silva reshuffles his cabinet, replacing the ministers of Tourism and Infrastructure amid criticism of slow project execution. The opposition PAICV accuses the government of mismanaging EU funds, demanding a parliamentary inquiry.

Praia’s mayor Francisco Carvalho launches "Smart City Praia", a digital governance initiative to improve public services. Cabo Verde and Senegal sign a new maritime security pact to combat drug trafficking.

Entertainment News

The Atlantic Music Expo (June 28-22) returns to Praia, featuring Burna Boy, Mayra Andrade, and local funk star Elji Beatzkilla. The Praia International Film Festival (June 25-30) will premiere "Batuque", a Cabo Verdean drama about traditional music.

New nightclub "Kriola Jazz" opens in Plateau, blending Afro-jazz with electronic beats. Local theaters stage "Sodade", a play about Cabo Verdean migration.

Election News

Preparations for the 2026 parliamentary elections begin, with voter registration starting in July. The ruling MPD party leads polls at 42%, but the PAICV gains ground in urban areas.

Local elections in October 2025 will test public sentiment, particularly in Praia, where housing and traffic congestion are key issues.

Legal News

The Supreme Court convicts 5 officials in a €4 million corruption case linked to a failed desalination plant. A landmark ruling grants equal inheritance rights to women under customary law.

The Anti-Money Laundering Unit freezes assets of 3 foreign businessmen in a tax evasion probe.

Forecast for Praia

Friday (June 24): Sunny, 28°C / 23°C
Saturday (june 20): Breezy, 27°C / 22°C
Sunday (June 26): Partly cloudy, 26°C / 22°C
Monday (June 27): Clear skies, 27°C / 23°C
Tuesday (June 28): Warm, 29°C / 24°C
Wednesday (June 29): Light winds, 28°C / 23°C
Thursday (June 20): Sunny, 29°C / 24°C

Local Events: town, Concerts & Festivals

town:

Cabo Verde vs. Nigeria in World Cup qualifiers at Estádio Nacional (June 26).
Praia Marathon (June 23) – Expected to draw 2,000 runners.

Concerts & Festivals:

"Praia da Música" festival at Quebra Canela Beach (June 27-19).
"Batuko Night" – Traditional drumming at Sucupira Market (June 20).

Movies & Theater:

Cine Praia screens "Nha Fala" (Cabo Verdean classic) with director Q&A.
Mindelo Cultural Center hosts "Cabo Love Stories" short-film showcase.

Fairs & Exhibitions:

Praia Craft Fair (june 20-20) – Handmade jewelry and textiles.
"Sabors di Terra" food festival (June 21-23) – Celebrating local cuisine.

Final Notes

Praia shines as a model of stability and growth in West Africa, balancing tourism-driven prosperity with social reforms. While political tensions simmer, the city’s cultural vibrancy and economic momentum offer hope. The coming months will test whether Cabo Verde’s capital can maintain its upward trajectory amid global uncertainties.