Global - Technology - Review

Cape Verde consists of a semicircle of ten small islands that lie in the Atlantic off the coast of Africa. Independence from Portugal was gained in 1975. One island, Fogo, has an active volcano. While some islands are rocky and mountainous, others are sandy and have few hills. Two have salt flats. Cut off from the African continent, some bird species, like the Cape Verde Swamp Warbler, are only found on the islands. Marine wildlife includes the loggerhead turtle and humpbacked whale. There is a developing fishing industry and tropical fruit and sugar cane is grown. The diverse and interesting scenery, together with the mild climate and attractive beaches have encouraged tourism, and a number of large hotels have been built, however the supply of fresh water is a perennial problem. There is a strong tradition of folk music and dance, blending Portuguese and African elements. The national dish is Cachupa, a stew made from corn, beans and meat. The capital, Praia, is on Santiago Island, and was visited by Charles Darwin during the voyage of the Beagle. French international footballer Patrick Viera is partly of Cape Verdean heritage.