03 October 2025

Cape Verde is set to deploy 5G mobile internet services by 2026, following the recent presentation of the country’s national 5G strategy proposal.

The government emphasises that 5G will serve as a fundamental pillar for the next decade, offering significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and the capacity to connect a vast number of devices simultaneously.

The Ministry of Digital Affairs highlighted that this technological upgrade is more than mere modernisation; it is a powerful tool for economic and social transformation. The strategy aims to position Cape Verde as a prominent digital and innovation hub, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and investment while promoting digital inclusion across the country.

Officials believe that the rollout of 5G will catalyse the development of a conducive environment for technological advancement, ultimately helping the nation realise its ambitions of becoming a regional digital center. As of early 2025, the country boasted an internet penetration rate of 73.5%, with approximately 387,000 users, according to DataReportal.

The International Telecommunication Union has also noted extensive mobile network coverage in Cape Verde, with 2G, 3G, and 4G services reaching 99.3%, 95.3%, and 88.5% of the population, respectively. The deployment of 5G is expected to further enhance connectivity, support innovation, and drive socio-economic growth in the island nation.