From Independence to Inclusion: Cabo Verde’s Social Security Journey
The archipelago nation of Cabo Verde (Cape Verde), located off the west coast of Africa, has experienced a remarkable evolution in its social security system since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975. This development reflects the country’s broader journey from a post-colonial state to a stable democracy with a growing economy. Despite limited resources and geographic challenges, Cabo Verde has established one of the more robust social protection systems in sub-Saharan Africa. This article examines the initiation, reforms, and current state of Cabo Verde’s social security system, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges. Historical Context and Initiation (1975-1990s) Post-Independence Foundations When Cabo Verde gained independence in 1975, it inherited minimal social protection structures from the Portuguese colonial administration. The newly formed government, led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), faced the daunting task of building social protection mechanisms from scratch while dealing with...