On Saturday 5 July 2025 Cape Verde (officially Cabo Verde) celebrated 50 years of independence. Prior to 1975 it was a Portuguese colony. It is generally accepted that the country has done well since it became independent. It has its challenges as a country without natural resources, little rainfall and being spread across 10 islands (9 inhabited). However, there has been progress in many areas, such as health, education and poverty reduction, although there is always more to do. Tourism has been an important factor in helping the country to make these improvements. As a result of this progress, Cape Verde is considered to be one of the most stable countries in West Africa. The first inhabitants from Europe and Africa settled on the islands in the 15th Century.