AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION BY PANORAMA DISTRIBUTED IN THE TIMES Monday, 5th of November 2018

CAPE VERDE The stunning volcanic archipelago of beautiful beaches and rugged terrain is a true tropical paradise and hotspot

Record numbers of international visitors are discovering the wealth of natural and cultural marvels of these welcoming African islands in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean

Traditional fishing boats, , Sal Island, Shutterstock: Samuel Borges Photography 2 Monday, 5th of November 2018 CAPE VERDE A true tropical paradise and tourism hotspot www.panorama.uk.com Idyllic islands blend ideal climate with natural charms Cape Verde’s reputation for memorable holidays is on the rise, with UK travellers leading the charge

lessed with pristine ists from the UK representing of millions of pounds flowing white beaches and almost a quarter of all interna- into the economy each year, Bwarm, sparkling crystal tional arrivals to the stunning particularly in the key areas clear waters under a blue sky, archipelago off Africa’s north- of tourism and real estate. Cape Verde (also known as west coast. In addition, British Cabo Verde) is the defini- guests averaged the longest First-class transport hub The majestic mountains of the Paul Valley dominate the skyline of the island of Santo Antão tion of a tropical paradise stays at almost nine nights. Boasting four international The islands’ outstanding Cape Verde’s wealth of airports — on the islands of reputation for memorable natural and cultural charms Sal, Boa Vista, São Vicente, “Historically, the British “There is still a strong Brit- holidays is growing by the astound and enthral in equal and Praia Cape Verde is fully coal bunkering launched ish influence in parts of Cape day, thanks to its widespread measure. A favourable flight prepared to take advantage of Cape Verde into the interna- Verde, for example, there are appeal as a year-round sun time of just five hours from the the predicted jump in annual tional routes; for 50-75 years many English words in the na- spot with alluring beaches, UK makes the country a much visitor numbers to more than the British played a major role There is a strong tive Creole language and even volcanic hiking routes, variety more affordable and closer one million by 2022. here,” states Cape Verde’s in the area of sports there is of water sports, and a lively option than the Caribbean The country is served by a Minister for Tourism, Trans- British influence a strong influence where the music scene. and most of mainland Africa. host of international airlines port and Maritime Economy, in Cape Verde still. locals play cricket and golf. Cape Verde has plenty to In addition, with no time dif- that offer direct and indi- José da Silva Gonçalves. “We would like to see more offer people of all ages and ference to the UK, there is no rect flights from many of the “Nowadays, it is no lon- We want more UK investment from the UK and budgets, with foreign direct jet lag that often eats into the world’s largest cities. Several ger coal, but FDI from Great investment.” encourage British investors investment (FDI) in the tour- first few days of a holiday. cruise lines also include the is- Britain that we attract in all to participate in the many op- ism industry growing rapidly. The UK is not only the lead- lands on their itineraries, with areas of the economy, but José da Silva Gonçalves portunities we have. We plan Visitor numbers reached ing source of holidaymakers thousands of passengers dis- particularly infrastructure Min. for Tourism, Transport to organise a roadshow in the a record 716,000 in 2017, up to Cape Verde, but also leads embarking for day trips and development, tourism, and and Maritime Economy UK to showcase our openings 11.2% year-on-year, with tour- in the FDI charts, with tens various excursions. maritime operations. to the wider market.” Clear skies ahead for aviation sector as tourism takes off

of an economically viable civil aviation system ASA will shortly go through an institutional Cape Verde has avoided industry turbulence and — airlines, airports, air navigation services change and embrace a new business model providers — and enhancing economic efficien- which will lead to private sector involvement in the outlook is bright thanks to regulatory support cy and transparency, while facilitating access to airport management.” funding for aviation infrastructure. The senior executive is eager for ASA to play ASA also seeks to increase technology trans- an integral role in ensuring Cape Verde contin- ape Verde’s enviable strategic position Boa Vista, which are two of the fastest growing fers and strives to build capacity to support the ues to take advantage of its natural assets to at the crossroads between continents tourism markets in the country. growth of air transport and associated activi- attract many more people from overseas. Cmeans the government is striving to max- “We have progressive policies, and a regula- ties, with the achievement of goals guaranteed “Our market is tourism and the range of imise the aviation sector’s pivotal role. tory environment based on best practices. We to boost government revenue and reduce unem- countries we cover is becoming more compre- Through the creation of a streamlined hub are developing an aviation hub on Sal and aim ployment. hensive each year,” he adds. “We may not have for international air travel, the industry will to play an important role in the linking of four “The challenge is to keep on building upon oil or , but we do have the sun, sea, sand, act as a catalyst for growth and development. continents: Africa, North America, Amer- what we already achieved, and to improve on and mountains. We cannot sell directly as such, “In our air transport sector, a great deal of ica, and Europe. it,” says ASA Chairman and CEO, Jorge Ben- but we can sell them in a package.” investment has been made to develop the coun- Spearheading the drive to further develop chimol Duarte. “At Sal, we had an exceptional “Cape Verde’s target is one million tour- try’s sound policies,” states Minister Gonçalves the national aviation sector for business and year in 2017 and reached our first million pas- ists per year, and the plan is for Sal to receive proudly. “We have a very proactive Open Skies leisure travellers is Aeroportos e Segurança sengers due to tourism development. around half of that large number,” says Sal Agreement and many airlines and companies Aérea (ASA). “We have plans for significant investment Mayor, Júlio Lopes. operate here. The forward-thinking agency aims to en- and major changes to the institutional frame- “We have all the assets to attract many de- “Cape Verde is one of only a handful of Afri- hance the stability of regulatory frameworks to work. The sector is undergoing restructuring, mographics of people; visitors and investors. can countries that have a category one certified pave the way for greater FDI, which is ultimate- not only the airport business, but the whole avi- We have wonderful beaches, of which some airport. We have two airports — Sal and Praia ly key to guaranteeing the sustainability of air ation industry. are ranked in the top 25 in the world, as well — that are points of departure to the US, and transport in the region. “Flag carrier TACV has been rebranded Cabo as many other natural wonders, like the Salina, have international airports in São Vicente and ASA is focused on fostering the development Verde Airlines and is being privatised, while which is a salt plain in a crater.” Monday, 5th of November 2018 3 www.panorama.uk.com A true tropical paradise and tourism hotspot CAPE VERDE Modern and efficient sea ports connect continents and technology is also high on Investment in ports and projects the agenda. The quality, efficiency, com- means the cruise and shipping petitiveness, and reliability of Cape Verde’s ports and de- sectors are on the crest of a wave livery of world-class service mean the country is high on the list for international ship- ape Verde’s ideal po- between 36,000 and 44,000 pers, especially as a new era sition at the centre of tonnes, with investment op- of port development is now Cseveral lucrative in- portunities available in a underway. tercontinental trade routes streamlined supply chain that “We are utilising a new remains one of the nation’s aims to get fish and seafood generation of technologies to key competitive advantages, into international markets as increase efficiency and pro- with its appeal as a natural quickly as possible. ductivity, intensify land-use logistical and transshipment Tasked with promoting at ports, improve safety and hub obvious to all. and developing important security, and raise the level Substantial public invest- infrastructure for maritime of sustainability,” explains ment in the modernisation of ENAPOR President, Jorge Pi- the country’s main ports is a menta Maurício. clear sign the maritime sec- “We have 10 islands, of tor is a priority area for the which nine are inhabited, so government, with significant we have a lot of port infra- FDI sought to optimise the structure many people depend openings created by its highly Cape Verde offers on through the circulation of advantageous location. a stable and people and goods in a fast and Sea ports are the lifeblood of the Cape Verdean economy and a powerful magnet for major FDI Despite its relatively small efficient manner. size, Cape Verde has an exten- secure business “Our wish is for Cape Verde itself, but with another fuel re- can nations. in our operations. sive and exclusive economic environment.” to be inserted into the global source. This is one of the great “Some people fail to see “The development of our zone (EEZ) of 789,400 square Jorge Pimenta Maurício economy and we are assisting business opportunities for UK the organisational structures, tourism industry will be boost- kilometres, around 9.4% of the President, ENAPOR with the gradual transforma- companies. We offer a stable mental capacity, judicial ca- ed by efficient inter-island total Sub-Sahara African EEZ. tion of the geography of the and secure environment with pacity, and passion that this transport networks that will An expanding fisheries indus- maritime sector. political stability. The context country possesses and what make it more comfortable to try focused on the processing “The UK has always been in which Cape Verde operates we can give to global trade,” move freely between islands. of daily catches comprises the activities is national ports important for us. We no lon- is important.” he adds. It will help tourists extend and majority of exports, with other authority ENAPOR. Key proj- ger transship coal, but new The senior executive says “ENAPOR is excited to enjoy their time in Cape Verde. maritime activities including ects at present include those energies like LNG are a real that just because Cape Verde be the commanding organi- “A new cruise ship terminal ship repair operations. related to fisheries, trans- as investors could is an African country, does sation behind the complete will be created to improve our According to official data, shipment, and cruise terminal use Cape Verde as tranship- not mean it falls under the development of logistics and handling capabilities of these the annual fish stock poten- operations, while the creation ment base for LNG. same ills and negative notions infrastructure of our - kind of giant ships that bring tial deemed sustainable is of a fisheries-focused science “History could repeat associated with other Afri- time industry, leaving no gaps many tourists.”

Cabo Verde’s new-generation of ports Cabo Verde are your intelligent gateway into Africa AFRICA By introducing the technologies of the future today, our ports now offer unrivalled quality, efficiency, competitiveness, safety, security, reliability and a world-class service — making Cabo Verde the best port of call in the region for cruise ships, fish processing and transshipment operations.

ENAPOR - Ports of Cabo Verde Av. Maginal CP N° 82,– Republic of Cabo Verde, Mindelo São Vicente, Cabo Verde Tel: +238 230 7500 | Fax: +238 232 4337 | [email protected] | www.enapor.cv 6 Monday, 5th of November 2018 CAPE VERDE A true tropical paradise and tourism hotspot www.panorama.uk.com

When and why erators and leading did TRG find financial institutions. success in As well as develop- Be my guest: Creating Cape Verde? ing the resorts, we As early as 2011, manage and oper- when we opened ate them, and supply our first resort on-site services, in- luxury holidays in an and spa, Meliã cluding hospitality and Tortuga Beach. entertainment, as part Recognised as one of of our dedication to pro- the world’s most lucra- viding the highest-quality undiscovered paradise tive property investment resorts and an unrivalled hol- opportunities, since 2012 it iday experience. has claimed five World Trav- We also have a portfolio of We take an in-depth look at The Resort Group, el Awards. That was just the independent enterprises that start: in 2014, we launched we part or wholly own. These which is transforming tourism in Cape Verde Meliã Dunas Beach resort and We now have allow us to offer additional spa, which was named Best a worldwide value — for example, we con- Lifestyle Resort Worldwide at trol our own supply chain to a the Hotel of the Year Awards reputation for large degree. We are not, how- t the centre of Cape ther independently or through beaches, beautiful scenery, the following year. top-level resorts ever, involved in construction, Verde’s tourism and the group’s managed rental exciting culture, a laid-back Starting 2018 as we mean and hotels, where we partner with Grupo Areal estate sectors is programme. Here, Rob Jarret, ambience and the famous to go on, TRG has won ac- SANJOSE, which is listed on The Resort Group plc (TRG), founder and CEO of TRG, ex- Cape Verdean hospitality. colades from the prestigious and superior the stock exchanges of New a world-class luxury hospitali- plains why Cape Verde and It is also incredibly safe, Luxury Travel Awards and the York and Madrid, and has done ty company that specialises in TRG offer the ideal holiday and politically stable and very renowned TUI Group Awards, occupancy in the an amazing job in creating val- creating and managing some investment location. democratic. Even though the which we are exceptionally most enviable ue, constructing projects and of the world’s best 5-star re- islands are now receiving more proud about. For example, promoting sustainability. sorts and hotels. What first attracted you to visitors, they have managed to Meliã Llana Beach resort and locations.” Excitingly for those looking Cape Verde and how is TRG maintain their undiscovered spa is a TUI Top Quality Win- Rob Jarret Is the government support- to buy their own piece of trop- contributing to its economy? feel and relaxing atmosphere. ner for 2018. Founder and CEO ing tourism and is there ical paradise, the apartments, Just a short direct flight from Our 5-star resorts, run in We now have a worldwide The Resort Group sufficient infrastructure rooms, suites and villas at the UK, Cape Verde has the per- partnership with world-lead- reputation for top-level resorts here? these show-stopping proper- fect holiday blend of sunshine, ing operators such as TUI and hotels, and superior oc- The government has done a ties are sold to investors for year-round temperatures of Travel, Meliã Hotels Interna- cupancy in the most enviable We currently have five resorts fantastic job and Cape Verde their private use or to rent, ei- 25°C to 30°C, endless white tional, Steigenberger Hotels locations. Our track record on the island of Sal, plus Bikini has improved its business and Resorts, and Hilton World- and ability to deliver the very Beach club, a big attraction in environment, air transport wide, are proving to be the highest quality, as well as its own right. We are develop- infrastructure, price compet- ideal location for people to strong profitability and sound ing nine projects on Boa Vista, itiveness and environmental 8 reasons to invest in a TRG relax and enjoy Cape Verde’s corporate governance, are un- an island where tourism is sustainability, and modernised no-stress lifestyle. We cur- rivalled in the industry. Much thriving, and one in the capital, its utilities and telecommuni- property in Cape Verde rently host 60% of the tourists of our success is due to never Praia, which will be the coun- cations. coming here. spreading ourselves too thinly try’s tallest and most iconic On Boa Vista, our nine prop- The figures tell their own — a model that ensures inves- building. This 5-star hotel will erties will cover 750,000 square story: Cape Verde is Google’s tor confidence. be operated by Hilton and is metres and TRG is pushing most-searched-for holiday des- built completely from glass. In the boundaries of sustainabil- tination, tourist numbers have Can you describe TRG addition, we have two projects ity and building infrastructure risen 115% since 2000 — most portfolio of properties and planned for São Vicente island. within that development. For Just 5 hours from 5-star markedly since TRG started services? All these locations will have a example, we are creating a the UK luxury investing — and are forecast new Bikini Beach — in Praia it new road network, extend- to double again by 2024. will be at the very top of the Hil- ing the telecommunications What TRG has also ton and called Level Heaven. infrastructure, constructing done is create an ex- The way we operate is that desalination plants, and we clusive global network TRG handles the entire proper- will manage the water and of first-class profes- ty development process, from electricity supplies as well. sionals with a variety identifying prime land and ar- This infrastructure is critical Excellent weather Award-winning of unique skills that chitectural design through to and we will be investing €20 all year round facilities meet the demands of managing the construction. We million in it. visitors. Other busi- deliver 5-star resorts on time, nesses on the islands on budget and to plan, making Where are your guests and have capitalised on our us the partner of choice for property investors from? success as well, by offering world-class hotel op- The UK sends the largest a variety of activities for proportion of tourists to Cape our guests that we sup- Verde, followed by Portugal port. and Germany. But TRG pro- Endless white A track record of We have been so suc- motes its properties in 27 beaches profitability cessful that we believe juristictions at the moment, we will be contributing so we are not dependent 20% of Cape Verde’s on one region for our vis- gross domestic product itor numbers. As tourism in the future, as we con- has developed on the is- tinue with our mission lands, the industry has to be the leading leisure adjusted — for example, and hospitality company, A laid-back Visitor numbers set there are new tour oper- and partner of choice for ators, flight planners and ambience to double by 2024 the world’s premier hotel and additional flights from Bir- tourism groups. mingham, Glasgow, Bristol, Monday, 5th of November 2018 7 www.panorama.uk.com A true tropical paradise and tourism hotspot CAPE VERDE

Amsterdam, Milan, Lisbon, Paris and many other places. Bikini Beach: I believe Cape Verde needs Introducing the world’s next to keep adding flights at an Expect the increasing speed. This makes us available as an exciting new unexpected! tourist destination for visitors property hotspot: Boa Vista from wider markets. TRG is In creating the first Bikini working diligently to support Tourism is thriving on the enchanting, flexible accommodation. Even more Beach Club on the island the government in creating extravagant are 13 opulent villas of Sal, The Resort Group additional routes from many that have their own private pool major European cities and to undeveloped island, where The Resort and landscaped gardens. (TRG) has reinvented the entice different airlines, such In line with TRG’s dedication beach club experience as Virgin and Emirates, to the Group is developing six 5-star resorts to delivering the perfect and taken it to the market place. holiday to every guest, next level. This In addition to tourists, Cape the resort will incor- unrivalled VIP Verde is fast becoming a fa- porate adult-only and leisure venue vourite filming location. Its family sections, and a holds a exoticism, romantic sunsets diverse range of facil- breathtaking and beautiful beach walks ities will be available, spot in a made it the ideal spot for this enabling visitors to purpose-built year’s Celebs Go Dating and enjoy pure relaxation we also hosted 2017’s Brit- whilst basking in the lagoon set 40 ain’s Next Top Model. That sun or a full spectrum of metres out into the was filmed at our Meliã Dunas activities. Atlantic Ocean and Beach resort and spa, and For example, there will be an has quickly become the trips to the luxurious Bikini exceptional variety of options for place to be in Cape Beach club featured heavily! sampling first-class food and Verde. drinks that will satisfy any Its huge success TRG runs many corporate taste, including fine-din- is bringing social responsibility initia- ing restaurants, a expansion and tives. Why is this important? sumptuous cham- there will be 19 Our Cape Verde Foundation, pagne bar, relaxing seeks to assist with issues like lobby bar, lively sports more Bikini education, housing, health and bar and wet bar. Beach Clubs long-term development. We In addition, guests within ten years — soon, the have, for example, built a uni- Adventure and rejuvenation await at White Sands Hotel and Spa will have access to versity in Praia so people no six swimming pools, Bikini Beach Club a luxuriant YHI Spa for Experience will enowned for its 55 kilometres exclusive and unparalleled beach pampering and relaxation, a define beach style at of fabulous beaches, tur- destination by creating six luxury fully equipped fitness centre, a wa- the world’s most festive, Rquoise waters that contain a resorts on a ten-mile stretch of its ter-sports centre, tennis and beach electric locations. wide variety of tropical marine life glorious pristine sands, as well as a volleyball courts, world-class Extravagant and We deliver 5-star including whales and dolphins, and dazzling new marina. diving, and boating and a culture that blends African and Catering for the growing demand fishing trips. And for prestigious, from resorts on time, on Portuguese influences, Boa Vista is for high-quality accommodation on families, there will the afternoon budget and to plan, one of the least-densely populated Boa Vista, TRG’s stunning master also be a children’s until the early island in the Cape Verde archipel- plan has been fully endorsed by the club, adventure play- hours of the making us the ago. Government of Cape Verde. ground and baby morning these partner of choice Having long remained an undis- The first resort to give Santa pools. clubs will allow covered secret, and destination Monica the 5-star facilities it de- But that is not all: holidaymakers for world-class of choice for discerning and pio- serves will be TRG’s White Sands as well as the marina to enjoy hotel operators.” neering visitors, it is receiving an Hotel and Spa, which is scheduled TRG is creating in Santa luxurious increasing number of direct flights to open in the first half of 2020 Monica, it is also develop- champagne, Rob Jarret from UK and European cities, tour- and will be fully managed by Meliã ing a new Bikini Beach club, Founder and CEO delicious cuisine, The Resort Group ism is thriving and it is about to Hotels International, ensuring un- waterpark, department store and become one of the world’s property rivalled service. a selection of smaller shops selling over-the-top fun and hotspots. Befitting an island whose name everything a holidaymaker could games, star cameos, live longer have to leave the islands Flights arrive at , the means “good view”, the natural need. music and the hottest for a quality education. We island’s capital and a shining sloping topography of White Sands’ As with all TRG projects, those guest DJs. have also equipped kitchens example of a traditional Cape lands means that almost every one who take up the opportunity offered Through its Bikini in all schools and supply them Verdean town, with picturesque of the luxurious resort’s 835 keys by White Sands can enjoy their Beach Clubs, TRG is with food — giving children a cobbled streets, and an abundance has spectacular and panoramic sea properties themselves, or benefit building on its healthy meal and an educa- of restaurants and bars. But the views. from a substantial rental income. experience in hotels and tion. Providing jobs is another jewel in Boa Vista’s crown is the Created by award-winning archi- TRG is renowned for managing resorts to command a priority and, once Boa Vista is awe-inspiring Santa Monica Beach. tects and designers, White Sands the entire development process, developed, the number of is- Located in a sheltered position in has a Moorish feel overall and con- whilst keeping purchasers in- new global position in landers we employ will double the southwest of the island, it has tains inspirational properties of the formed at every step along the way the VIP entertainment to over 4,000. the purest white sands imaginable highest build quality, with beautiful — which means that possibly the sector — offering guests are amaz- and has been named one of the 25 interiors that use the finest fur- only decision a buyer has to make an unmatched and ing in their positive outlook best beaches in the world at Trip nishings, fixtures and premium is which of the fabulous properties unforgettable experience and warm disposition towards Advisor’s 2018 Travellers Choice appliances. is right for them. that will keep partygoers their communities and, espe- awards. Those properties include a range After that, they can sit back and coming back for more cially, foreigners. Their mantra Focused on preserving the is- of lavish suites with swim-up pools, picture themselves relaxing in an from this unique and is “no stress” and they wel- land’s unique and unexplored hot tubs and outside space, as oasis of luxury on an idyllic trop- innovative brand. come tourism — we want to nature, TRG is in the process of well as larger penthouse and du- ical island, watching both the sun give something back to them. transforming Santa Monica into an plex-style suites that provide more set and their investment grow. 8 Monday, 5th of November 2018 CAPE VERDE A true tropical paradise and tourism hotspot www.panorama.uk.com

Tourists who experience Cape Verde’s variety of natu- Six memorable places to visit Tourism firms gear ral and cultural charms, often return to sample more of its while holidaying in Cape Verde delights, including music and tasty cuisine. Santa Maria Beach Blending white up for strong growth After all, where else in sands with warm waters, this the world can you swim in long beach is the most popular salt lakes in ancient craters, on any of the islands. Nestled With tourist numbers forecast to double over the climb a towering active volca- in the southernmost tip of Sal, no, or watch dozens of noble the beach provides visitors with next few years, FDI opportunities are abundant loggerhead turtles leave their the perfect venue to relax and nests at night? unwind before they head to the Beach lovers are certainly selection of shops, spoilt for choice with mile restaurants and esponsible for more cade, there is plenty of room tourism, eco-tourism, health after mile of white sands on bars dotted along the local strip. than a quarter of GDP, for other players to take some tourism, and voyages on the various islands, includ- tourism is a priority market share. cruise liners. Increasing num- ing the ever-popular Santa R Fogo Volcano Stretching ma- sector for the government According to national bers of visitors will also want Maria beach. jestically into the cloudless blue as it looks to attract more of trade and investment agen- to partake in activities and For visitors seeking to sky, this striking, active volcano the industry’s big names to cy CV TradeInvest, potential events, meaning openings for immerse themselves in is a natural national treasure the country amid fierce com- investors should focus on day trips and excursions. centuries of tradition and that draws petition from other leading providing more tourist ac- “The existence of four culture, there are many thousands of holiday destinations. commodation, particularly international airports, pleas- churches and forts on the visitors a year, Major brands such as TUI, hotels and resorts that will ant climate, and the diverse islands that are open to the including many climbers who Hilton, and Sol Melia have appeal to families and young- geographical and cultural public all-year round. Many conquer the 2,829 metre already established a sig- er travellers. landscape due to the insu- towns hold colourful craft summit. nificant presence, but with Opportunities have also larity of the country, are key markets and music events tourism numbers expected been identified in special- advantages in this sector,” CV where tourists can get an Pedra de Lume Salt Pans to double during the next de- ist sectors, including rural TradeInvest highlights. authentic taste of local life. Stripping off to swim, or just float, in some of the world’s saltiest water is a highly-popular Protecting marine activity for people of all ages. This sun-kissed outdoor spa is ideal for people seeking to reju- life will boost Blue venate body, soul and mind. Carbeirinho Economy for years Cave and Rock Formation As eye-catching as they are Government is ensuring precious mysterious, these amazing natural formations have been marine jewels sparkle and swell carved out by the wind and sea over millions of years. Found iven Cape Verde is are nearing a tipping point on dressed an influentialtiatives for the sustainable near the town a small archipelago many fronts, from over-fish- audience at a UN conference use of our ocean is part of our of Tarrafal on the island of Sao Gsurrounded by almost ing and marine pollution to in the Big Apple that focused daily lives for present and fu- Nicolau, the ancient rock for- 900,000 square kilometres of coastal erosion. PROBLUE on ways to achieve SDG 14. ture generations. mations are complemented by ocean, the islands are at the is designed to address these In his address, the min- “Our maritime vocation a rare black sandy bay. forefront of the coordinated, challenges and to develop ister noted how the ocean unequivocally creates both global fight to protect and and sustain our precious represents an essential challenges and opportunities. Santo Antão Combing tall peaks preserve marine life. marine resources for genera- element of the history, geog- Challenges to provide ade- with fertile valleys and a large In late September, the tions to come. raphy, politics and culture of quate oversight and control plain. the terrain is ideal for activities World Bank Group launched It also supports the UN’s Cape Verde, by its strategic over the threats throughout such as cycling, hiking, and pony trekking. Rich in a multi-donor trust fund Sustainable Development location between several con- the vast seas and ocean that wildlife, the rugged island is also per- called PROBLUE to sup- Goal 14 (SDG 14), which tinents and at the crossroads surround our small landmass fect for bird spotting. port healthy and productive covers the sustainable use of lucrative shipping lanes. and confront our small pop- oceans by tackling marine of oceans, seas and marine He also highlighted how ulation, given limited means Viana Desert Venture into the pollution, managing fisheries resources. Meanwhile, the the government had adopted and monitoring resources. white sand dunes of the Sahara and fostering the sustainable World Bank Group sees the a “landmark” charter on Blue “Opportunities for — well, those blown over from growth of coastal economies. ocean as a new economic Growth and Economy in 2015, strengthening our identity the mainland — on foot, horse- “Healthy oceans protect frontier worth $24 trillion. meaning the ocean and Blue as an archipelago nation, back, or in special off-road biodiversity, provide jobs, PRODBLUE was launched Economy now stand at the further cooperation in the vehicles. Found on the tranquil food, drive growth, and keep in New York City around 14 core of national development. region and the international island of Boa Vista, the desert is the planet cool,” said - months after Cape Verde’s “The sea is our bounty and community while promoting popular with people of all ages. ra Tuck, World Bank Group Minister for Tourism, Trans- the main resources of our sustainable development and Vice President, Sustainable port and Maritime Economy, country,” Minister Gonçalves economic growth of our ma- Development. “Our oceans José da Silva Gonçalves, ad- said. “The promotion of ini- rine resources.”