Natural Hazards Description: prolonged droughts; seasonal harmattan wind produces obscuring dust; volcanically and seismically active
Environmental Current Issues: soil erosion; deforestation due to demand for wood used as fuel; water shortages; desertification; environmental damage has threatened several species of birds and reptiles; illegal beach sand extraction; overfishing
In spite of its past success, Cape Verde is facing challenges to keep growing at a sustainable and inclusive way. The country’s lack of non-renewable natural resources and poor conditions for agriculture keep it highly vulnerable to external shocks.
The majority of crops grown in Cape Verde is maize and beans. Bananas, sugar cane, sweet potatoes and cassava are also grown. However about 90% of food needs to be imported to the island. The main exported crops are bananas and coffee.