Local Harvest for Tourism

Sal faces a critical challenge in food sovereignty due to extreme environmental limitations and a desert climate. While the island welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors, nationwide data from the FAO indicates that 80% of food consumption needs are met through imports. In 2023 alone, the country imported $130.3 million USD in food products according to the World Integrated Trade Solution. For Sal, the flat and arid landscape means fresh produce travels thousands of miles, while only a small fraction is sourced locally.

The project bridges this gap by integrating climate-resilient hydroponic technology to bypass the constraints of poor soil and water scarcity. Strategic partnerships with major hotel chains create a reliable market for high-quality, pesticide-free vegetables. This approach merges sustainable farming with the tourism value chain to ensure local products replace expensive imports. By focusing on digital and technical solutions, the initiative scales existing agricultural efforts to meet modern market demands.

Transformation comes to life as young entrepreneurs and students master agribusiness skills through hands-on training programmes while maintaining a 50% female workforce. Individual successes spark wider community change by establishing a self-sufficient model of local ownership and food production. The launch of “Tapas da Terra” tours further connects visitors to the land, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable practices. Ultimately, these mechanisms create a resilient ecosystem where local talent drives the future of Cabo Verdean agriculture.