Under the Power of Data Initiative, leaders converge to shape a digital future rooted in inclusion, ethics, and innovation
Praia, Cabo Verde | April 24, 2025 — Cabo Verde has taken a decisive step toward a data-driven future by hosting a international conference focused on “Building the Digital Future: Challenges and Opportunities for the First National Data Strategy in Cape Verde, in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” As part of the Power of Data initiative, the event brought together government officials, development partners, and international experts to catalyze the country’s journey toward building its first-ever National Data Strategy (NDS).
Held from April 23 to 24, 2025, the conference served as a springboard for national dialogue on how data and artificial intelligence can be leveraged to strengthen economic growth, reinforce institutional resilience, and ensure inclusive and ethical development.
Carlos Alberto Mendes, President of the National Council of Statistics (CNEST), opened the event by acknowledging the importance of national leadership and cross-sector collaboration. He also emphasized the critical role of political leadership, particularly through the Prime Minister’s Office, in driving forward the data agenda.
Mr. Lourenço Lopes, Assistant Secretary of State for the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted the transformative promise of the national strategy:
“The National Data Strategy is a crucial step for harnessing the power of data to strengthen the economy, promote inclusion, and empower our youth. AI, with its enormous potential, must be handled ethically to lay the foundation for fairer and more inclusive development.”
Other speakers echoed this forward-looking vision. Mr. Elias Pereira, Administrator of the Bank of Cabo Verde, emphasized that:
“Data strategy will help boost the economy and reinforce the resilience of our institutions. Data is not just a source of information, it’s the key to unlock solutions and inform one another.”
From the international community, strong support was voiced by Mr. Jose Pinto, Representative of the World Bank:
“We are adapting our processes to better support data development. The World Bank reaffirms its commitment to supporting the development and implementation of Cabo Verde’s national data strategy.”
Ms. Patricia Portela, UN Resident Coordinator in Cabo Verde, framed data as a foundational resource for modern governance:
“Data is a catalyst for development, it’s the new oil that drives change. The process starting today is a critical step for the country and must bring every key player into the conversation.”
As Cabo Verde embarks on this new chapter, the conference not only sets the tone for a national movement around data but also positions the country to lead by example in the ethical and inclusive use of artificial intelligence.
This event reflects the broader vision of the Power of Data initiative: supporting countries in unlocking the full potential of data through inclusive national strategies, shared learnings, and enduring partnerships.
Learn more about the Power of Data initiative and how countries like Cabo Verde are shaping the future through data.
