Cape Verde

I

Introduction

Cape Verde, officially Republic of Cape Verde, republic comprising the Cape Verde Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean, 620 km (385 mi) due west of the westernmost point of Africa, Cape Vert. The archipelago consists of ten islands and five islets, which are divided into windward (Barlavento) and leeward (Sotavento) groups. The windward group on the north includes Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista; the leeward group on the south includes São Tiago, Brava, Fogo, and Maio.

A former Portuguese colony, Cape Verde became independent on July 5, 1975. It has a total area of approximately 4,033 sq km (1,557 sq mi). The capital of Cape Verde is Praia on São Tiago.

II

Land and Resources

The islands are volcanic in origin, and all but three—the low-lying islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio—are mountainous and deeply furrowed by erosion and volcanic activity. The highest point, Pico do Cano (2,829 m or 9,281 ft) on Fogo, is also the group’s only active volcano; its most recent eruption was in April 1995.

A

Climate

Cape Verde is located in the semi-arid belt, and the climate is tropical and dry, and subject to extended droughts which have forced mass migrations at times in the past. The average annual temperature is about 24° C (75° F). The annual rainfall averages about 250 mm (10 in) and is concentrated between August and October, the northern islands are drier than the southern ones.

B

Plants and Animals

Vegetation is sparse and consists of various shrubs, aloes, and other drought-resistant species. Wildlife is also limited and includes lizards, monkeys, wild goats, and a variety of birdlife. Mineral resources are meagre and include pozzolana (a volcanic rock used in making cement), salt, and kaolin.