The Government of Cape Verde has officially inaugurated Tech Park Cape Verde (“TechPark CV”), a state-of-the-art hub designed to position the country as a leading digital innovation center in West Africa. This milestone marks a significant step in the nation’s ongoing digital transformation journey.
Funded by a €45.59 million investment from the African Development Bank (AfDB)—equivalent to nearly 2% of Cape Verde’s GDP—TechPark CV aligns with the country's strategic vision to diversify its economy and develop a resilient tech ecosystem. The initiative aims to establish Cape Verde as the “Tech Islands of West Africa”, a regional hub connecting West Africa, Europe, and the Americas through cutting-edge digital services and innovation.
A Modern Centre for Tech Growth
Currently, TechPark CV houses 23 companies and has capacity for up to 1,500 workers. Its modern infrastructure is designed to foster technological development by supporting startups and established firms alike, encouraging partnerships with academic institutions, and creating employment opportunities for local talent.
The park will expand across two campuses—one in Praia on Santiago Island, and another in Mindelo on São Vicente Island. Inauguration ceremonies are scheduled at both sites this week:
- May 5th, 2025 — Praia Campus, Santiago Island
- May 6th, 2025 — Mindelo Campus, São Vicente Island
The Praia event attracted over 300 companies, including more than 100 international businesses such as Intel, Microsoft, and Smart Africa—highlighting global interest in Cape Verde’s burgeoning tech sector.
Regional and Global Engagement
The ceremonies gathered key figures from government, business, and technology sectors. Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and international leaders like Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, underlined the regional and continental importance of this initiative.
A notable panel discussion featured executives from Intel, Microsoft, Smart Africa, as well as Elisabeth Moreno, former French Minister and a leading technology executive. The focus centered on how technology and innovation will shape Africa’s digital future, emphasizing regional cooperation.
Infrastructure and Technological Focus
The park boasts modern, sustainable infrastructure—including coworking spaces, data centers, training facilities, business hubs, and conference centers—supported by high-speed connectivity and internationally-standard digital services. Its geographic location in the mid-Atlantic acts as a bridge linking Africa, Europe, and the Americas, opening pathways for international investment and partnerships.
A core focus is fostering emerging tech sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, fintech, big data, and Internet of Things (IoT). The government’s backing is reinforced by tax incentives: TechPark CV is a designated ZEET (Special Economic Zone for Technologies), offering VAT and import tax exemptions, along with a reduced corporation tax rate of 2.5% for qualifying businesses.
Regional and Global Collaboration
Beyond national boundaries, TechPark CV will collaborate with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote innovation and digital inclusion across the region. The project reflects Cape Verde’s national spirit of morabeza—hospitality, warmth, and openness—creating a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and sustainable growth.
Leadership Comments
Carlos Monteiro, President of TechPark CV, said:
“TechPark CV embodies our ambition to transform Cape Verde into a key technology hub for West Africa. Our strategic mid-Atlantic location provides a gateway for investments linking Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
The spirit of morabeza is at the heart of our efforts—a welcoming space where innovators from diverse backgrounds can collaborate and thrive.
This isn’t just about building a digital infrastructure; it’s about fostering a community that drives economic growth and sustainable development for Cape Verde and our partners worldwide.”
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