On September 20, 2026, the Minister of Internal Administration, Carlos Sena, participated in a working meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Communities, the Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau to Cabo Verde, the Ambassador of Senegal, and the Ambassador of ECOWAS. The meeting focused on analyzing the security situation and concerns expressed by Western African communities residing in Cabo Verde.
The meeting was prompted by recent incidents of crime in the city of Praia, including an incident on September 12 in the Tira Chapéu neighborhood involving a Guinean citizen. The incident raised concerns about the safety of the Guinean community in Cabo Verde. The meeting also addressed the need to strengthen personal and residential security for the Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau following a reported incident of harassment.
Minister Carlos Sena emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to addressing the concerns presented, including issues related to living conditions and housing for African communities in Cabo Verde. He also highlighted the ongoing process of regularization and legalization of foreign citizens in an irregular situation, aimed at contributing to better organization and management of migration in Cabo Verde.
The Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau stressed the relevance of the meeting and the dialogue established with Cabo Verdean authorities, emphasizing the need to preserve coexistence, security, and good relations between the two peoples. The diplomatic representatives present considered it essential to strengthen dialogue and coordination mechanisms with Cabo Verdean authorities in a spirit of cooperation and trust.
The meeting demonstrated Cabo Verde's commitment to addressing the concerns of Western African communities living in the country. The government has acknowledged the importance of ensuring the safety and security of these communities, and has pledged to work with diplomatic representatives to achieve this goal.
The incident on September 12 in the Tira Chapéu neighborhood highlighted the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between authorities and communities. The government has taken steps to address the concerns raised, including strengthening security measures and promoting dialogue with affected communities.
The collaborative approach between Cabo Verdean authorities and diplomatic representatives is seen as a positive step towards addressing the security concerns of Western African communities in Cabo Verde. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all communities living in the country.
Key points
- The government of Cabo Verde has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of communities from Western Africa living in the country.