Cape Verde Among the Nine African Countries with the Highest Level of Income, According to the World Bank

The World Bank recently released an update of its global ranking of income levels for 2025, revealing that Cape Verde is among the only nine African countries that have reached the highest levels - in this case, the upper middle income level.

The classification, based on Gross National Income (GNI) per capita according to the Atlas method, divides countries into four groups: low, lower middle, upper middle and high income. According to the most recent data, Cape Verde is in the upper-middle income group, a recognition that reinforces the progress the country has made in improving living conditions and valuing its human capital.

Among the African countries, only the Seychelles managed to achieve the status of high-income country, driven by a strong tourism sector and solid institutions. The other eight - Cape Verde, Mauritius, South Africa, Algeria, Botswana, Libya, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea - were classified as upper middle income.

Cape Verde's position is particularly remarkable considering its geographical limitations and lack of large-scale natural resources. Unlike countries like Libya and Algeria, whose ranking is linked to the exploitation of oil and gas, Cape Verde has achieved this level through a combination of political stability, investment in tourism, services, education and good governance.

However, the World Bank warns that a high ranking does not automatically imply equality of income or better living conditions for the entire population. Issues such as unemployment, regional inequalities and challenges in the social sectors are still present in many of the countries classified as upper middle income.

Still, the World Bank's recognition places Cape Verde as an example of resilience and ambition on the African continent, and highlights the role of structural reforms and public policies focused on human development.