Rising COVID-19 Cases in Cabo Verde
As of May 4, Cabo Verde had a total of 3,030 known active COVID-19 cases. The active cases are on Santiago (1,621), Sal (382), São Vicente (375), Santo Antão (275), Boa Vista (139), Sao Nicolãu (108), Fogo (48), Maio (52), and Brava (30). Additional information is available at https://covid19.cv and on the Government of Cabo Verde’s Facebook page.
“State of Calamity” Declared
On April 29, 2021, the Government of Cabo Verde declared a 30-day State of Calamity on the islands of Santiago, São Vicente, Fogo, São Nicolãu, Santo Antão, Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio. Brava remains under a State of Contingency.
New Restrictions on Gatherings and Commercial Establishments
In islands under a State of Calamity, the following limitations have been imposed:
- The collective practice of sports, leisure, and entertainment activities are prohibited and facilities are closed.
- Public, artistic, and cultural activities are prohibited when carried out under conditions that exceed the maximum capacity of 150 people, that promote gatherings, and that do not ensure physical distancing and other health rules. Facilities are closed.
- Spaces used for entertainment activities such as dancing, namely nightclubs, pubs and dance halls, or places where parties are held remain closed.
- Parties are prohibited, whether private, public, or in public spaces. Gatherings in private residences are limited to members of the same family.
- Service to the public in restaurants, cafes, and take-aways are only allowed until 11pm.
- Commercial facilities that serve alcohol can only operate until 9pm, including on weekends and holidays.
- Commercial facilities, with the exception of pharmacies and bakeries are open until 8:30pm; bakeries may remain open until 9pm.
- The Maritime and Port Institute will regulate the use of beaches on an island-by-island basis. In Praia, beaches are open only 6am – 8am.
Face Masks Mandatory
The Government of Cabo Verde’s requirement to wear facial coverings when outside one’s own residence remains in effect. The Government has warned that offenders will be punished for violating any of these restrictions. U.S. citizens in Cabo Verde are reminded that all Cabo Verdean laws and regulations apply to them.
