Population & Culture

The population of Cape Verde is estimated to be in the order of 476,000, compared with 434,625 at the 2000 census. The population is young, with 42% under 14 years old. The composition by ethnic origin is 71% Creole, 28% African and 1% European. The vast majority of the population is Christian, predominantly Roman Catholic. Literacy rates, at over 76%, are high.

The identity of the Cape Verde Islanders has been created by the fusion of many different races and while the major influences are, naturally, Portuguese and West African, other nations from Brazil to Spain, England to China have made their mark.

This has resulted in a cosmopolitan and vibrant culture that seems more Caribbean in nature and quite unlike that of other Mediterranean influenced Atlantic islands. This melting pot is reflected in the islands' lavish secular, Roman Catholic and Muslim festivals many of which are accompanied by processions and drumbeats that have a distinctly tribal African echo.

Music can be heard everywhere in Cape Verde, from the plaintiff morna, which seems to have roots in Portuguese fado to the upbeat funana with its infectious African rhythms.

And while Portuguese is the official language, Creole, which has its origins in the days of the slave trade and differs from island to island, can be heard everywhere, from market stalls to poetry.

At fishing villages across the island nearby, brightly-painted boats land their catch of the day providing wild fresh Atlantic fish and seafood which is superb. Imagine tuna, lobster, octopus and swordfish, along with seasonal and local specialities that can be bought from the colourful local markets and enjoyed in seafront restaurants.

Another island delicacy is 'Cachupa', a hearty, slowly cooked stew of vegetables, herbs and, in the 'rich-man's' version, meat or chicken.

The perfect accompaniment is the local beer, Coral, or a very drinkable wine made from grapes grown on the volcanic slopes of the island of Fogo. And for the adventurous drinker, there is the ubiquitous grogue, rum distilled from sugar cane and named after the grog traditionally served to British sailors.