China-FAO Project Boosts Cabo Verde Agriculture, Aiding 4,500 People
A collaborative project between Cabo Verde, China, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has significantly benefited approximately 4,500 individuals, including farmers, ranchers, technicians, researchers, students, and local communities. Announced by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries, Eveline Ramos, the initiative involved an investment of around $1.8 million, funded by China. The project, implemented from 2023 to 2026 on the islands of Santo Antão and Santiago, focused on horticulture, plant protection, livestock, and seaweed aquaculture. It introduced new technologies, provided training for technicians and producers, and developed solutions tailored to Cabo Verde's specific context.
Preliminary results indicate improvements in agricultural practices, a reduction in losses from pests and diseases, enhanced sustainable management of soil and water resources, and strengthened epidemiological surveillance in animal health. Minister Ramos highlighted the project's role in evaluating three years of joint work and planning future cooperation to benefit farmers, ranchers, and fishing communities. She emphasized the crucial participation of women and youth in training activities, deeming generational renewal essential for sustainable agricultural development. The project, coinciding with 50 years of diplomatic relations between Cabo Verde and China, exemplifies South-South cooperation through knowledge sharing, mutual trust, and context-specific solutions.
This agricultural cooperation initiative between Cabo Verde, China, and the FAO demonstrates a practical application of South-South cooperation principles, aiming to enhance food security and rural livelihoods. The project's focus on technology transfer, capacity building, and adaptation to local conditions addresses critical challenges in developing economies. By involving diverse stakeholders, including women and youth, the program promotes inclusive growth and intergenerational knowledge transfer, vital for long-term agricultural sustainability. As Cabo Verde navigates climate change and resource constraints, such partnerships are instrumental in building resilience and fostering innovation, potentially serving as a model for other Small Island Developing States seeking to modernize their agricultural sectors and reduce post-harvest losses.
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