Cabo Verde 

On the third day of the workshop, Cabo Verde provided an overview of its National Social Protection System (SNPS) and explained its contributory and non-contributory components. Under the contributory system, which is overseen by the National Social Security Institute (INPS), beneficiaries can choose between self-registration and registration through established structures. Beneficiaries of the SNPS are entitled to various benefits, including sickness benefits, pensions and family allowances, which are intended to cushion any loss of income. In contrast, the non-contributory component, known as the Single Social Register (CSU), is administered by the Ministry of Family and Social Inclusion and local authorities. It is aimed specifically at vulnerable households receiving social safety net benefits. 

Cabo Verde is committed to improving its socio-economic environment through proactive public policies. These policies target poverty reduction and the promotion of fair and sustainable growth, focusing on financial, social, economic, and digital inclusion. The country aims to raise incomes through targeted initiatives, such as strengthening housing rehabilitation for the most vulnerable families, ensuring universal access to preschool, and promoting the social and solidarity economy. Plans also include reinforcing policies for the inclusion of people with disabilities, expanding health fee exemptions, and incorporating gender equality and equity principles. 

Observations reveal a limited integration of the fishing sector in the SNPS. For example, 85% of fishers are not registered with the SNPS, indicating a substantial coverage gap. To overcome this, the government undertook in 2021 a General Fishing Census to produce relevant and reliable data and information that could inform the formulation of economic and social policy measures for the fisheries sector.  

In addition, the government is making efforts to support the fisheries sector in various areas including supporting semi-industrial fishing projects to facilitate financial access, stimulate private investment, improve the business environment, and expedite community empowerment and sustainable fishing projects, aligning with the principles of co-management and the blue economy. 

In the area of fisheries and aquaculture, concerted efforts will be made to improve social sustainability, promote decent work, and facilitate access to social protection programmes for fishers.  


 Cabo Verbe concluded with an exchange on some challenges and future strategies. They identified several challenges, such as the need to strengthen social sustainability efforts, formalize the fisheries sector, and integrate gender equality strategies. In addition, they proposed to create an unemployment benefit during fishing closed seasons as well as a partial transformation of artisanal fishing into semi-industrial fishing through reconversion and creating condition to increase catch capacity, considering the level of the country's fish stock.  Similarly, they are implementing an Autonomous Fisheries Fund which provides microcredit financing programmes, to empower fishers, foster the creation of self-employment and enable fisheries sustainability and economic growth.