Cape Verde flag

Cape Verde

Republic of Cabo Verde

Capital

Praia

Region

Africa

Population

491,233

Area (km²)

4,033

💡Quick Summary

Cape Verde, officially Cabo Verde, is an archipelago nation in the Atlantic Ocean off West Africa's coast, with a population of around 491,233 spread across 4,033 km² of volcanic islands. Its capital, Praia, serves as the economic and cultural hub on Santiago Island. Known for its Creole heritage, stunning beaches, and morna music, this African country thrives on tourism and fisheries despite limited natural resources.

Key Insights

Low Fertility Rate Suggests Demographic Transition

Cape Verde's fertility rate of 1.52 children per woman is well below the replacement level of 2.1. This indicates a country that has undergone or is undergoing a significant demographic transition, leading to a potentially aging population and future labor force challenges, atypical for many African nations.

Strong Access to Electricity, a Development Milestone

An impressive 98.600% of Cape Verde's population has access to electricity. This high rate is a significant achievement for a developing country, indicating robust infrastructure development and a commitment to improving living standards and supporting economic activities across the islands.

Moderate Economic Growth Amidst Global Challenges

Cape Verde recorded a GDP growth rate of 4.795% in 2023, which is a healthy figure, especially considering global economic uncertainties. This suggests resilience and potential for continued development, though the relatively high unemployment rate of 11.971% remains a challenge to address.

Significant GDP Per Capita for its Region

With a GDP per capita of $4,794.90, Cape Verde stands out economically within the Western African subregion. This figure is considerably higher than many of its continental neighbors, reflecting a more developed economy, likely driven by tourism and services, despite a smaller overall GDP.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$2.50B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$4,794.9

GDP Growth (%)

4.8%

Inflation (%)

3.72%

Unemployment (%)

11.97%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-22.00%-11.00%0.00%11.00%22.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230150,000300,000450,000600,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%7.0%14.0%21.0%28.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,500$3,000$4,500$6,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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