Economic recovery and development of Brava Island, by Helder Lobo
Over the last 10 years, the primary sector has been losing strength throughout Cape Verde. However, while it has weakened on some islands, on Brava it seems to have been completely abandoned. Agriculture, fishing, and livestock farming, which for decades sustained families and drove the local economy, have ceased to receive the attention necessary for their development.
Before focusing solely on building new infrastructure, it is essential that the Brava Municipal Council and the Government of Cape Verde rethink and prioritize strengthening the primary sector of the economy, namely agriculture, fishing, and livestock farming.
To begin with, we need a stronger economy, with production, jobs, and investment.
Brava Island has geographical and demographic limitations that make the sustainable use of its natural resources essential. Over the years, the reduction in agricultural activity, the decrease in livestock production, and the difficulties faced by fishermen have contributed to the loss of family income, increased dependence on imported products, and a slowdown in the local economy.
For Brava to return to sustainable growth, it is necessary to find concrete solutions to revitalize these strategic sectors. This involves:
- Invest in water collection, storage and distribution systems for agriculture;
- To support farmers with technical assistance, improved seeds, and access to financing;
- Strengthen livestock farming through support programs for breeders and pasture improvements;
- Modernize the fishing sector with better vessels, equipment, maritime safety, and fish preservation infrastructure;
- Create incentives for young people to return to productive activities, generating employment and income on the island itself;
Infrastructure development is important, but these projects will only have a lasting impact if they are accompanied by a strong and productive local economy. A road, a square, or a public building does not replace the need to generate employment, income, and opportunities for the population.
Therefore, I appeal to the Brava Municipal Council and the Government of Cape Verde to place the recovery of agriculture, fishing, and livestock farming at the center of the island's development policies. The revitalization of these sectors could boost the local economy, reduce external dependence, combat unemployment, and create conditions for more people from Brava to remain and invest in their homeland.
Personally, I believe that Brava's true economic recovery begins with strengthening its primary sector. Without production, there is no sustainable development.
Helder Lobo
