Cabo Verde remains third but declines in governance
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Expresso das Ilhas
Cabo Verde retains third place among 54 countries in the 2026 Ibrahim Index, but its governance has deteriorated more rapidly since 2021. The report, based on 96 indicators covering 2016 to 2025, will be presented in Cairo, according to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation cited by Expresso das Ilhas.
Cabo Verde retains third place among 54 countries in the 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance, but its results have deteriorated over the past decade, with the decline accelerating since 2021, according to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation report.
The archipelago ranks behind Seychelles and Mauritius, and ahead of Botswana and South Africa. It has Africa’s second-best results for rule of law and justice, and for participation, and leads in the rights category. The report also highlights its strong performance on gender equality.
This trend contrasts with performance in several areas: security and the rule of law, as well as the foundations for economic opportunity, have deteriorated in Cabo Verde over the past decade. Across the continent, nearly 80% of people live in 36 countries where rights declined over the period studied.
The 2026 edition of the index, published every two years, covers 2016–2025 and is based on 96 indicators. Its official presentation is scheduled to take place in Cairo on 31 October.
