Insight

• Dimunayo Tengi
• 6 Min Read

Cape Verde Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, is a small island nation located off the coast of West Africa. Despite its limited natural resources and relatively small population, the country has a thriving diaspora and a growing economy. Over the years, Cabo Verde has produced prominent leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators whose wealth, power, and influence have made a significant impact on the nation.

In this post, we explore the top 10 richest individuals in Cabo Verde as of 2025, analyzing how they made their wealth and the industries they dominate. From seasoned politicians and legal experts to trailblazing entrepreneurs, these figures represent the evolving face of Cabo Verde’s economic elite.

1. Jorge Carlos Fonseca

Estimated Net Worth: $20 Million

Jorge Carlos Fonseca is widely regarded as one of the most influential political figures in Cabo Verde’s modern history. Born in Mindelo in 1950, Fonseca served as the President of Cabo Verde from 2011 to 2021. His professional journey spans across law, academia, and politics, making him a multifaceted leader.

Fonseca holds a law degree and has worked as a university professor, legal consultant, and government advisor. His wealth is largely attributed to his legal career, numerous published works, international speaking engagements, and retirement benefits from public service.

His political legacy, scholarly achievements, and prudent investments have solidified his place as the wealthiest individual in Cabo Verde.

2. José Maria Neves

Estimated Net Worth: $15 Million

José Maria Neves is the current President of Cabo Verde, having assumed office in 2021 after previously serving as Prime Minister from 2001 to 2016. His wealth comes primarily from his long-standing involvement in politics, academic contributions, and advisory roles at regional and international organizations.

Neves is known for initiating key public reforms and securing international funding during his tenure, especially from the European Union and African Development Bank. His ability to influence economic policy has created opportunities that contributed to his personal and financial success.

3. Ulisses Correia e Silva

Estimated Net Worth: $12 Million

Ulisses Correia e Silva, born in 1962, is the current Prime Minister of Cabo Verde. With a background in economics and finance, Silva has held various leadership positions including Minister of Finance and Mayor of Praia, the capital city.

His professional experience outside politics, such as serving in banking and economic policy institutions, has enhanced his wealth. Silva is recognized for his role in stabilizing Cabo Verde's economy during the COVID-19 pandemic and for expanding access to renewable energy.

4. Carlos Veiga

Estimated Net Worth: $10 Million

Carlos Veiga served as Prime Minister of Cabo Verde from 1991 to 2000 and later as the country's ambassador to the United States. A seasoned lawyer, Veiga’s career has spanned law, diplomacy, and politics.

Veiga made his fortune through his private legal practice, high-profile consultations, and investments in real estate and foreign ventures. His diplomatic roles also opened doors for international business engagements, making him one of the country's wealthiest public servants.

5. Manuel Inocêncio Sousa

Estimated Net Worth: $8 Million

Manuel Inocêncio Sousa has held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Foreign Affairs. He was instrumental in launching some of Cabo Verde’s most critical infrastructure projects, including port modernization and rural electrification.

Sousa’s wealth is largely due to his consulting roles after leaving office, as well as his interests in the transportation and logistics sectors. He is respected for his strategic planning skills and technical expertise in national development.

6. Guadalupe de Rosário

Estimated Net Worth: $7 Million

Guadalupe de Rosário is a former Prime Minister and economist who played a pivotal role in shaping Cabo Verde’s macroeconomic strategy in the late 20th century. He also served as Minister of Agriculture and Economic Coordination.

Much of Rosário's wealth is derived from his advisory roles with international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank, along with shares in agri-business projects across the archipelago. He remains a behind-the-scenes figure in national policymaking.

7. Basílio Ramos

Estimated Net Worth: $6 Million

Basílio Ramos is a former President of the National Assembly and one of the most respected politicians in Cabo Verde. He also served as Minister of Health, where he helped strengthen the nation’s public healthcare system.

Ramos made substantial earnings through his post-political engagements, public speaking, and consulting in public health initiatives in Portuguese-speaking African countries. He is also a property investor in the booming tourist districts of Mindelo and Sal.

8. Aristides Lima

Estimated Net Worth: $5.5 Million

Aristides Lima served as President of the National Assembly between 2001 and 2011. A trained journalist and legal scholar, Lima is known for his articulate defense of democracy and human rights in Cabo Verde.

Lima’s financial success comes from his legal consulting work, book publications, and affiliation with international NGOs and democratic foundations. His books on political theory and governance are used as references in Lusophone Africa.

9. Vera Duarte Pina

Estimated Net Worth: $4.5 Million

Vera Duarte Pina is a judge, poet, human rights activist, and former political adviser. She has served on the Supreme Court and held various advisory positions in national and international organizations.

Duarte Pina’s wealth stems from her legal career, international appointments with the United Nations, and royalties from her award-winning poetry and books. She is one of the most respected female figures in Cabo Verdean intellectual and legal circles.

10. Edmilson Rocha

Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million

Edmilson Rocha, born in 1992, represents the new generation of Cabo Verdean entrepreneurs. He is the founder of CVORM, a company specializing in the recycling of plastic waste, and CVORMUSIC, which supports local music talent.

Rocha’s fortune was built through sustainability projects and digital business models. He leverages technology to promote local content and economic inclusivity. His commitment to green innovation makes him a rising star in Cabo Verde's business scene.

Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Men in Cabo Verde

Conclusion: Shaping Cabo Verde's Economic Future

Cabo Verde's economic story is often told through the lens of its public officials and entrepreneurs who bridge the gap between governance, innovation, and social development. The top 10 richest individuals in the country reflect a blend of traditional leadership and modern entrepreneurship, contributing to the nation's sustainable growth.

While politics remains a strong source of wealth and influence, younger entrepreneurs like Edmilson Rocha are changing the narrative by focusing on green innovation and creative industries. The future of Cabo Verde’s economy lies in this synergy between the old guard and new blood—both working to uplift their nation on the global stage.

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