23 October, 2025
Incatema has presented an action plan for the implementation of a system for the certification of origin and sustainability of Cape Verdean fishery and aquaculture products. The meeting, held in Mindelo, brought together representatives of the fishing sector, the relevant authorities and scientific and academic institutions to discuss the proposal developed under the World Bank-funded Resilient Tourism and Blue Economy Development Project in the country.
Towards a more sustainable and competitive fishery
Throughout 2025, Incatema has carried out an exhaustive analysis of the main fisheries and aquaculture productions of the archipelago, evaluating their potential to obtain certifications in terms of product origin and sustainability of the fishery or production. The result of this work is an integral proposal that includes a certification system adapted to the national context, accompanied by a socioeconomic, environmental and institutional feasibility study and an action plan that will allow its practical implementation in the coming years.
During the seminar, Incatema experts presented the proposed system and coordinated group work sessions to gather input from stakeholders. Fishermen, public managers, scientists and university representatives shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities posed by the certification of Cape Verdean fish products, a key step to improve their traceability, commercial value and acceptance in international markets.
Industry participation and engagement
“This initiative constitutes a decisive step towards the sustainability of the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Cape Verde. The certification will allow the country to strengthen the management of its marine resources, boost the competitiveness of its products and generate new economic opportunities based on responsible practices,” said Mrs Adelaida Pérez Milán, Incatema’s director of consulting projects. She also stressed the importance of the participatory process in the design of the system: “Having the vision and knowledge of local stakeholders is essential to ensure that certification is viable, effective and sustainable over time”.
The project is part of the strategy led by the Government of Cape Verde, with support from the World Bank, to consolidate the blue economy as a driver of sustainable development. Incatema contributes its experience in fisheries management, institutional governance and local capacity building, helping the country move towards a more resilient and marine-friendly model.