The government of Cabo Verde has announced plans to reinforce urban renewal efforts through the PROURB program and revise the country's land use and urban planning laws. The initiative was revealed by Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Territorial Planning, Carlos Tavares, at the opening of the 2026 National Cities and Urbanism Forum in Praia. The program aims to support municipalities in renewing neighborhoods, improving public spaces, and enhancing accessibility.
According to Minister Tavares, the PROURB program will provide crucial support to municipalities in upgrading neighborhoods, valorizing public spaces, and creating more functional, safe, and inclusive urban areas. The program's goal is to bring about tangible improvements that positively impact communities and populations in their daily lives. Tavares emphasized that transforming cities requires more than just financing and construction; it also demands modern, effective legal instruments and execution capacity.
The government is currently finalizing the Code of Sustainable Building and Urbanization and preparing to review several key laws, including the Territorial Planning Law, the Cities Statute, and Municipal Master Plans. These revisions aim to promote more balanced urban planning, reducing inequalities between cities and rural areas. Minister Tavares stressed the importance of addressing urban challenges by looking beyond city limits, as the lack of opportunities in rural areas contributes to pressure on urban centers.
The minister highlighted the need to combat regional imbalances and reinforce territorial cohesion by creating better life opportunities across the country. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing risk prevention, improving stormwater management, and protecting vulnerable areas. In Cabo Verde, a country prone to climate-related challenges, adequate land use and urban planning are crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable development.
Minister Tavares underscored the significance of municipal involvement and active citizen participation in ensuring more inclusive, balanced, and sustainable urban development. The government aims to foster a culture of prevention and anticipation, rather than simply responding to damages. This approach requires better planning, information, technical capacity, and political will to enforce decisions and respect rules.
The 2026 National Cities and Urbanism Forum provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Cabo Verde's urban areas. The event brings together experts, policymakers, and citizens to share perspectives and ideas on sustainable urban development. By engaging in these discussions, participants can contribute to shaping the country's urban planning strategies and promoting more livable cities.
The government's efforts to revitalize urban areas and review land use laws reflect its commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing Cabo Verde's cities. By prioritizing sustainable urban development and engaging stakeholders in the planning process, the government aims to create more resilient, equitable, and thriving urban environments for all citizens.
Key points
- The Cabo Verde government plans to enhance urban renewal through the PROURB program.
- The government aims to review key land use and urban planning laws to promote more balanced urban planning.
- Municipal involvement and citizen participation are crucial for ensuring sustainable urban development.
