The proposed Little Africa project on the island of Maio was originally programmed to commence on site on 1 July 2021. There has been very little news since then. However, according to Inforpress, the investor’s representative, Rui Maia recently announced that the first phase will start during the first three months of 2026. This phase is expected to be completed in about three years and is expected to cost about €200 million.

The idea of developing the Little Africa project was first announced in December 2020, with an estimated total value of €500 million. It was intended to provide around 8,000 jobs, and attract other investment on the island. The Little Africa Resort complex is planned to provide 3,000 rooms. In addition there will be other facilities. The developer stated that these would include a theatre, casino, exhibition centre, business centre, modern hospital and an international college. It is hoped that the beauty of Maio and its status as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve will not be compromised by this ambitious development.