Cape Verdean Trade Union Urges Government Action on Inter-Island Transport Crisis

The Cape Verdean trade union UCID has called on the government to fully address the ongoing issues plaguing inter-island transport in the island nation. The union's appeal comes amid a worsening transport crisis that threatens to undermine territorial cohesion and inflict significant economic losses.

At the heart of the crisis is the impending departure of Angolan airline BestFly World Wide, the majority shareholder of Transportes Interilhas de Cabo Verde (TICV). BestFly has announced its intention to leave Cape Verde, citing a "toxic and punitive business environment" and criticizing its treatment by authorities. The airline's exit risks worsening the already strained inter-island transport situation.

UCID argues that the lack of effective solutions to the air and maritime transport problems has jeopardized territorial cohesion and the competitiveness of businesses operating across the archipelago. The union warns that the transport disruptions have caused "enormous losses for people" and are having a severe socioeconomic impact on the nation.

Why this matters: The inter-island transport crisis in Cape Verde threatens to isolate communities, disrupt commerce, and undermine the nation's economic and social fabric. Resolving the transport issues is critical for ensuring equitable access to services, maintaining national unity, and supporting the livelihoods of Cape Verdeans across the islands.

UCID is urging the government to take decisive and comprehensive action to definitively resolve the transport situation. The union emphasizes the far-reaching consequences of the crisis, noting that it affects national security, the transport of patients, and the viability of major events and festivals in the country.

In a statement, UCID called on the government to "make more comprehensive and effective decisions" to address the transport issues, warning that "the socioeconomic impact of the transport problems is very strong." The union stressed the urgency of finding lasting solutions to ensure reliable and affordable inter-island connectivity for all Cape Verdeans.

Key Takeaways

• Cape Verde's trade union UCID calls for government action on inter-island transport crisis.
• Angolan airline BestFly to leave Cape Verde, citing "toxic and punitive business environment".
• Transport disruptions jeopardize territorial cohesion, competitiveness, and socioeconomic impact.
• UCID urges comprehensive and effective government decisions to resolve transport issues.
• Reliable and affordable inter-island connectivity is critical for Cape Verdeans.