Support for rehabilitation efforts following Tropical Storm Erin

Context

On 11 August 2025, Tropical Storm Erin struck the northern islands of Cabo Verde, causing severe flooding and landslides. São Vicente, the most populous island, suffered nine fatalities and faced the displacement of 1,500 citizens. In addition, its water and sanitation infrastructure sustained major damage, disrupting access to safe drinking water and consequently leaving the population vulnerable to numerous health risks. School canteens were also affected, compromising the nutrition and access to education of children, one of the most vulnerable groups in the population. This project addresses the need for rapid action to restore essential services and strengthen national resilience to extreme weather events.

Objectives

The project aims to revive and strengthen the resilience of the island of São Vicente after Storm Erin. It has two main objectives: to restore safe access to drinking water and sanitation, and to ensure the continuity of the island’s school canteen programme. Interventions include the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, the implementation of risk prevention measures, and the restoration of food storage and distribution capacities.

Beneficiaries

The beneficiaries are 34,000 users of the drinking water service and 24,000 users of the sanitation service on São Vicente, as well as 31,000 pupils attending public schools on the northern islands who receive a hot meal every day. Local families and communities are also supported indirectly.

Stakeholders

The project is implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, in coordination with Electra (the drinking water service provider), the municipality of Mindelo (the sanitation operator) and the National Foundation for Social Action in Education (responsible for the school canteen programme). It is funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and relies on local actors to ensure the sustainability of its actions.