Cabo Verde Strengthens Port Security
MINDELO, Cabo Verde — Cabo Verde is strengthening security and resilience across its ports through a new cooperation framework between ENAPOR – Ports of Cabo Verde and SCOPE Africa.
The partnership was formalised on 4 September 2026 during the first SCOPE Africa Port Steering Committee meeting in Mindelo.
The initiative focuses on port security, operational safety, governance and environmental resilience. It also aims to strengthen Cabo Verde’s strategic maritime infrastructure. (Enapor)
ENAPOR and SCOPE Africa formalise ties
The meeting brought together representatives from ENAPOR, the European Union Delegation in Cabo Verde and other national institutions.
Participants reviewed progress made under the SCOPE Africa programme. They also discussed priorities and agreed on the next steps for improving port security and resilience.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between ENAPOR and SCOPE Africa during the meeting. (Enapor)
Security work began before agreement
The latest agreement builds on cooperation that started with a needs assessment in 2025.
SCOPE Africa carried out an assessment of Cabo Verde’s port security needs in November 2025.
The mission included technical visits to the ports of Praia and Porto Grande in Mindelo. It also involved discussions with the Maritime and Port Institute and the EU Delegation.
The assessment was designed to identify priorities and develop an action plan aligned with international standards and good port governance practices. (Enapor)
ISPS Code training strengthens capacity
Capacity building has been a major part of the cooperation.
In March 2026, ENAPOR and SCOPE Africa organised a workshop focused on the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code).
The training addressed port security governance, compliance and coordination between institutions. (Enapor)
A further certified training programme for Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs) and their assistants was completed in September.
The programme covered security plans, port facility security assessments, risk identification and threat evaluation.
Participants also examined mitigation measures and the legal responsibilities of PFSOs. (Enapor)
2026–2027 roadmap agreed
The latest steering committee meeting also validated a 2026–2027 implementation roadmap.
The roadmap provides a framework for the next stage of cooperation.
It is expected to guide activities aimed at improving security, operational safety, governance and environmental resilience across Cabo Verde’s ports.
The approach links port security with wider efforts to improve maritime connectivity.
Focus on resilient port infrastructure
SCOPE Africa is designed to support safer and more resilient strategic ports across Western and Central Africa.
The programme is funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France, in partnership with Enabel.
Its wider objectives include improving compliance with international port security standards and strengthening the ability of ports to prevent and respond to incidents. (Enapor)
The programme also supports regional dialogue and cooperation around strategic African trade corridors.
Cabo Verde targets safer trade links
For Cabo Verde, stronger port security is closely linked to trade and connectivity.
The country’s ports support passenger services, cargo movements and international maritime connections.
Improving security systems can help protect these operations while strengthening confidence among shipping and logistics stakeholders.
The cooperation with SCOPE Africa therefore extends beyond security alone.
It also supports Cabo Verde’s broader ambition to develop modern, competitive and resilient maritime infrastructure.
EU supports maritime connectivity
The cooperation is aligned with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy.
ENAPOR said the partnership contributes to the wider objective of strengthening Cabo Verde’s strategic maritime infrastructure.
It is also intended to promote safer and more resilient connectivity. (Enapor)
The EU is financing activities under the SCOPE Africa programme.
ENAPOR has welcomed the support and technical cooperation provided through the initiative.
Port security remains a regional priority
Port security is becoming increasingly important as African maritime trade grows.
Ports must protect infrastructure while keeping cargo and passenger operations moving efficiently.
They also need systems that can identify risks and respond quickly to incidents.
Training, international standards and cooperation between national institutions can strengthen these capabilities.
Cabo Verde’s latest partnership reflects this wider regional approach.
Cooperation moves into next phase
The signing of the MoU marks a new stage in the relationship between ENAPOR and SCOPE Africa.
The partnership now has a defined roadmap for 2026 and 2027.
The focus will remain on strengthening port security, operational safety, governance and environmental resilience.
For Cabo Verde, the programme provides another platform to improve the resilience and competitiveness of its ports.
The cooperation also demonstrates the growing importance of international partnerships in strengthening Africa’s maritime infrastructure.
Related Stories
- Original MaritimAfrica report
- ENAPOR – Ports of Cabo Verde
- European Union
- International Maritime Organization
Notes
- PAPN and Namport Strengthen Port Cooperation
- Mauritius CHCL Orders New Port Cranes
- Mauritius and Australia Strengthen SAR Services
- Liberia Completes Operation Anouanze IV
- Ghana, IMO Strengthen Seafarer Certification
- Africa Calls for Stronger Maritime Security Ownership
