The Launch of Tech Park Cape Verde: A Gateway to Digital Transformation
The Government of Cape Verde has officially inaugurated Tech Park Cape Verde (TechPark CV), marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation strategy. Positioned as a center of excellence for technology companies, TechPark CV is part of Cape Verde’s broader vision to establish itself as the “Tech Islands of West Africa,” connecting the region with Europe and the Americas through digital services and innovation.
The €45.59 million investment, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), represents nearly 2% of Cape Verde’s GDP. This substantial funding underscores the country’s commitment to diversifying its economy and enhancing its global digital presence.
With the capacity to host up to 1,500 workers, TechPark CV is expected to drive technological growth within Cape Verde and beyond. Currently housing 23 companies, the park is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support technology enterprises, facilitate collaboration with academic institutions, and create employment opportunities for local talent, thereby bolstering Cape Verde’s workforce development and economic resilience.
Comprising two campuses located in Praia on Santiago Island and Mindelo on São Vicente Island, TechPark CV is set to become a hub for innovation and digital advancement. Inauguration ceremonies are scheduled for both campuses this week, with a lineup of events that includes:
- May 5th, 2025 – Praia Campus, Santiago Island
- May 6th, 2025 – Mindelo Campus, São Vicente Island
The Praia inauguration has attracted over 300 companies, including more than 100 international firms and key players in the global tech industry such as Intel, Microsoft, and Smart Africa. This strong international presence underscores the growing interest in Cape Verde’s technology sector.
The event brings together government officials, industry leaders, and tech experts to discuss the future of digital transformation in Africa. Notable attendees include Prime Minister H.E. Ulisses Correia e Silva and Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, highlighting the event’s regional significance.
One of the highlights of the inauguration is a panel discussion featuring leaders from the global tech industry, including representatives from Intel, Microsoft, Smart Africa, and tech executive Elisabeth Moreno. Despite their diverse backgrounds, the panelists share a common focus on innovation, technology, and Africa’s digital future.
With modern and sustainable infrastructure such as coworking spaces, business centers, data facilities, and a conference center, TechPark CV is well-equipped to support emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, fintech, big data, and the Internet of Things. As a Special Economic Zone for Technologies (ZEET), the park offers favorable tax incentives to eligible companies, including VAT and import tax exemptions, and a reduced corporate tax rate of 2.5%.
Aligned with its regional strategy, TechPark CV will collaborate with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote innovation and digital inclusion across the region. This initiative reflects Cape Verde’s cultural ethos of “morabeza,” fostering an environment of hospitality and openness that encourages innovation and sustainable growth.
Carlos Monteiro, President of TechPark CV, expressed his vision for the project, stating:
“TechPark CV is the realisation of our ambition to transform Cape Verde into a technology hub for West Africa. Our unique mid-Atlantic location creates a gateway for investments and business opportunities linking Africa, Europe and the Americas. The spirit of morabeza lies at the heart of what we’re building – a welcoming environment where innovators from different backgrounds and cultures can collaborate and thrive together. Through this project, we’re not just building a digital hub; we’re fostering a community where technology drives economic growth and sustainable development for Cape Verde and our international partners.”
