National Day in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, is an island country and archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is composed of ten volcanic islands with a combined land area of 4,000 square kilometers and a population of approximately 550,000+ people. The nation celebrates September 12th each year as their National Day.
Cabo Verde (Public holiday)Although Cabo Verde Independence Day (celebrated on July 5th) is also a national holiday, this holiday commemorates the independence advocate and warrior Amílcar Cabral, who was born on this day in 1924. He was an agricultural engineer, intellectual, poet, revolutionary, and political organizer who led the PAIGC’s guerrilla movement against Portugal, which eventually led to independence for Portuguese Guinea and Cabo Verde.
The History of National Day in Cabo Verde
On September 12th, 1924, Amílcar Lopes da Costa Cabral was born in Bafatá in Portuguese Guinea. He would grow up to be one of the foremost anti-colonial leaders in Africa and was a prominent agricultural engineer, pan-Africanist, poet, nationalist, and diplomat. He led the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde, also known as the PAIGC, and its guerrilla movement against the Portuguese government. On January 20th, 1973, he was assassinated.
Observing National Day in Cabo Verde
This holiday is observed with parades, festivals, and other activities across Cabo Verde. It is a day off for the general population, and businesses, schools, and government offices are closed. It is also a day when people spend time with their friends and family enjoying fine Cabo Verdean dishes such as a thick chicken soup made with rice called Canja, a stew called Cachupa, and a fried eel dish known as Morreia. Additionally, the Flag of Cabo Verde is flown high from homes, businesses, and government buildings throughout the country.
Cabo Verde (Public holiday)
