Female participation in Cape Verdean politics has grown, but still faces significant challenges. The Cape Verdean Institute for Democracy (ICLD), recognising the importance of gender equality and female empowerment, is launching the Women's Political Leadership Programme for 2025. This ambitious programme aims to empower Cape Verdean women to take on more prominent leadership roles in the political sphere, contributing to a fairer and more equitable society.
The ICLD and its Commitment to Gender Equality
The ICLD has a proven track record of promoting democracy and good governance in Cape Verde. Gender equality is a fundamental pillar of its mission, and the Women's Political Leadership Programme is one of its most important initiatives to achieve this goal. The programme not only aims to increase the number of women in political office, but also to strengthen their leadership, advocacy and political management skills.
Main Programme Objectives
The main objectives of the ICLD 2025 Women's Political Leadership Programme are:
- Increasing female representation in political positions at national and local level.
- Strengthen the participants' leadership and political management skills.
- To promote networking and collaboration between women leaders.
- Encourage the active participation of women in the formulation of public policies.
- Combating gender stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive political culture.
Programme Content and Methodology
The programme is structured in intensive modules covering a variety of topics relevant to political leadership. The methodology is interactive and participatory, combining theoretical lessons with case studies, simulations and practical workshops.
Programme modules
- Leadership and Communication: Development of effective communication skills, oratory and inspirational leadership.
- Political Management and Strategy: Strategic planning, electoral campaign management and public policy analysis.
- Advocacy and Lobbying: Advocacy, negotiation and alliance-building techniques to influence political decisions.
- Gender and Politics: Critical analysis of gender issues in politics and strategies to promote equality.
- Ethics and Good Governance: Ethical principles in politics, transparency and the fight against corruption.
In addition to the face-to-face modules, the programme includes mentoring activities, where participants receive individualised guidance from experienced political leaders. Networking events are also organised to facilitate the exchange of experiences and the building of relationships.
Impact and Expected Results
The ICLD hopes that the Women's Political Leadership Programme 2025 will have a significant impact on the Cape Verdean political landscape. By empowering women to take on leadership roles, the programme will contribute to more equitable representation and the formulation of public policies that are more sensitive to the needs of the entire population.
Examples of success
Similar programmes implemented in other African countries have shown promising results. For example, in Rwanda, a training programme for female politicians has contributed to the country achieving the highest percentage of women in parliament in the world. In Mozambique, mentoring programmes have helped women overcome barriers and rise to leadership positions in political parties.
Statistical data
Although Cape Verde has made progress in gender equality, the statistics still reveal significant disparities. According to recent data, women represent only around 30% of the members of parliament and an even smaller percentage in leadership positions at local level. ICLD's Women's Political Leadership Programme aims to change this reality by increasing female representation and strengthening women's voices in politics.
Conclusion: An Investment in Cape Verde's Future
The ICLD 2025 Women's Political Leadership Programme is a crucial investment in Cape Verde's future. By empowering women to take on leadership roles, the programme contributes to a more just, equitable and democratic society. Women leaders bring unique perspectives and valuable experiences to politics, enriching public debate and promoting innovative solutions to the challenges facing the country. ICLD invites all Cape Verdean women with a passion for politics and a desire to make a difference to apply for the programme.
Deadline for applications: 4th August 2025
**Apply for the ICLD Women's Political Leadership Programme 2025! [Find out more and apply here](https://icld.se/en/international-programmes/the-programmes/itp-local-political-leaders-capacitating-women-in-politics/).
