MIGNEX Case Study Brief
Migration and development dynamics in São Nicolau, Cabo Verde
São Nicolau is an island at risk of marginalisation, surpassed by growth in other parts of the country. Emigrants help sustain a decent standard of living for most residents, but the flow of remittances is shrinking.
Key takeaways
São Nicolau is a tranquil island that residents express affection for, whether they are able to stay or have to seek work elsewhere.
Nearly everyone on São Nicolau has family, relatives or friends abroad and the majority of households receive remittances.
Locals reminisce about the time when emigrants were visiting in greater numbers. Statistics on remittances also suggest that ties with the diaspora are weakening.
