Cape Verde at the Forefront of Food Security: A Proposal for the Future

A food safety represents a crucial and multifaceted challenge for Cape Verde, an island nation with limited natural resources and vulnerable to climate change. Dependence on food imports, water scarcity and extreme weather events such as prolonged droughts jeopardise local agricultural production and, consequently, access to nutritious food for the population. It is therefore imperative to invest in innovative and sustainable solutions to strengthen the country's resilience in the face of these challenges, guaranteeing the availability, access and utilisation of safe and adequate food for all.

This project proposal aims to fill this gap by participating in the "FS4Africa Open Call" initiative, funded by the European Union. The focus is on implementing strategies that promote sustainable agriculture, optimise the use of water resources and strengthen local food value chains. Our approach is holistic, covering everything from primary production to distribution and consumption, with a strong focus on the role of local communities and empowering farmers.

The proposed project is based on three fundamental pillars. Firstly, the implementation of climate-smart farming techniques adapted to local conditions: this includes the promotion of drought-resistant crops, the use of improved seeds and the adoption of soil and water conservation practices, such as the construction of erosion barriers and the implementation of efficient irrigation systems. Secondly, the strengthening of infrastructure and local capacity: we will support the construction and/or modernisation of storage facilities, the development of local markets and the training of farmers in sustainable agricultural practices and business management. Thirdly, the establishment of strategic partnerships: we will work closely with universities, research centres, non-governmental organisations and the Cape Verdean government to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project and the sharing of knowledge and good practices.

We believe that this project will have a significant impact on improving food security in Cape Verde. By increasing local agricultural production, reducing dependence on imports and improving access to nutritious food, the project will contribute to reducing poverty and malnutrition, especially in rural areas. In addition, the project will promote resilience to climate change through the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and the efficient management of natural resources.

The sustainability of the project will be guaranteed by integrating the activities into the existing policies and programmes of the Cape Verdean government. In addition, training and capacity building for farmers and local communities will enable them to continue implementing the practices learnt even after the project has ended. The creation of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, in collaboration with local partners, will ensure that the project is achieving its objectives and that the results are used to inform future interventions.

To summarise, participation in the FS4Africa Open Call represents a unique opportunity for Cape Verde to strengthen its food autonomy, promote sustainable development and ensure a more prosperous future for all its citizens. With an integrated approach focused on local needs, this project has the potential to transform Cape Verdean agriculture and contribute to building a resilient and sustainable food system.

The deadline for submitting applications is 30 September 2025.

For more information and to submit your application, visit https://foodsafety4africa.eu/open-call/