UCID Calls for Boost to Cabo Verde's National Industry and Modernization of Productive Sectors

The União Cabo-verdiana Independente e Democrática (UCID) party in Cabo Verde is advocating for a stronger focus on developing the country's manufacturing industry and modernizing its agricultural, livestock and fisheries sectors. This approach aims to diversify the economy and address long-standing challenges. According to Zilda Oliveira, the party's representative, this strategy is crucial for Cabo Verde's economic transformation.

Despite celebrating significant milestones, including 50 years of independence and 35 years of democracy, Cabo Verde still faces substantial economic hurdles. The country struggles with a lack of structural economic transformation, high dependence on exports, unemployment and poverty. The UCID party believes that a key part of the solution lies in overcoming the obstacles faced by the national industry.

The UCID has identified several constraints hindering the growth of Cabo Verde's national industry. These include the small scale of production, high energy costs, reliance on imported raw materials and logistical challenges. To address these issues, the party plans to question the government about its strategy for reducing electricity costs in industrial production.

Another significant challenge facing Cabo Verde's industry is the complexity of rules of origin required for exports. The UCID wants to know how the government intends to overcome the high cost of electricity in industrial production and navigate the restrictions imposed by these rules. These regulations currently limit the country's ability to penetrate the European Union and CEDEAO markets.

In addition to industrial development, the UCID party is also calling for the modernization of the agriculture, livestock and fisheries sectors. This involves improving access to water, adopting efficient technologies and facilitating access to financing. By making these changes, the party believes Cabo Verde can make significant strides towards economic diversification.

The UCID also supports the government's program for the digital transition of the economy. However, the party emphasizes the need for measures that facilitate the adaptation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. This includes reducing connectivity costs, providing technological training for young people and simplifying procedures.

The UCID's proposals will be discussed during an upcoming parliamentary session, which includes a debate with the Minister of Economy, Commerce, Industry and Digital Transition. The session will focus on the government's strategies for addressing the country's economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Key points

• The UCID party's proposals aim to reduce Cabo Verde's dependence on exports and promote economic diversification.
• The party's plans include modernizing the agriculture, livestock and fisheries sectors and improving access to financing.
• The UCID also advocates for measures to facilitate the adaptation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in the digital transition of the economy.