Cape Verde Civil Society Approves Government Program's General Direction, Seeks More Dialogue

Cape Verde's civil society organizations have largely approved the general direction of the new Government's Program, while also calling for increased dialogue and concrete actions. Joaquina Almeida, Secretary-General of the UNTC-CS trade union, praised proposals aimed at improving the healthcare system by eliminating fees, reducing educational costs through tuition waivers, and enhancing maritime and air transport with greater regularity and lower prices. She urged the government to implement these measures to restore public confidence. However, Almeida also highlighted concerns that the program lacks specific details on crucial issues for workers and families, such as income policy, purchasing power recovery, inflation control, social dialogue, job creation, and social security improvements. She stressed that these matters should be explicitly stated, not just implied.

The UNTC-CS also seeks a new relationship with the government, emphasizing dialogue and negotiation over the perceived stance of the previous administration. The organization advocates for a more significant role for social dialogue and consultation in public policy, urging the government to listen to and respect the positions of social partners, particularly trade unions. The union expressed willingness to collaborate if the relationship is based on serious and responsible negotiation. Almeida also called for the fulfillment of past agreements, noting that unfulfilled commitments regarding wages and purchasing power restoration have worsened economic conditions for Cape Verdean workers and families.

Marcos Rodrigues, President of the Sotavento Chamber of Commerce (CCS), expressed hope that the Government's Program will provide renewed attention to the national business sector, aligning with electoral promises. While cautioning against premature evaluation, Rodrigues acknowledged positive aspects, particularly the focus on national enterprises, which he believes are crucial for economic development. He advocated for an economic diplomacy approach and better conditions for national investors, suggesting that external investors have often received preferential treatment. Rodrigues also stressed the need for diversification beyond tourism, pointing to the potential of the blue economy, fish processing, agribusiness, and pharmaceuticals. He identified process simplification, reduced bureaucracy, and digitalization as key priorities for improving the business environment and emphasized the urgent need for dialogue between the government and the private sector, which is the largest employer in Cape Verde. The Barlavento Chamber of Commerce indicated it would issue a joint statement with other chambers. The Platform of NGOs offered a globally positive assessment, noting the program's inclusive development vision across education, health, housing, youth, gender equality, and social protection.