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On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, the Cabo Verde Red Cross (CVCV) hosted a series of commemorative events in Praia that underscored its enduring commitment to humanitarian values and service. Among the distinguished guests were Ms. Jennifer Adams, U.S. Ambassador to Cabo Verde, Rear Admiral António Duarte Monteiro, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Dr. Manuela Filipe, President of the Portugal Red Cross, and Ms. Luisa Chau, Africa Center for Strategic Studies Regional Engagement Manager, who represented the many leaders and staff who have had the honor of interacting with Cabo Verdeans from the Africa Center community in their work. ACSS attended the festivities at the invitation of Dr. Arlindo Soares Carvalho, CVCV President and ACSS alumnus since 2006.
A highlight of the celebrations was a high-level International Humanitarian Conference and Gala, held on July 19, 2025 at the Presidential Palace. It was presided over by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Cabo Verde, Dr. José Maria Pereira Neves, who also serves as the organization’s Honorary President.
The conference brought together a distinguished group of policymakers, legal experts, academics, and civil society actors to explore the relevance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and reflect on the growing complexities of humanitarian action in today’s global landscape. The event aimed to foster dialogue, promote stronger legal frameworks, and reaffirm shared commitments to humanitarian principles across sectors and borders.
Dr. Arlindo Soares Carvalho, President of the CVCV, emphasized the significance of the milestone:
“Over the past five decades, the organization has worked tirelessly to alleviate human suffering, promote dignity, and respond to the needs of the most vulnerable. The anniversary was not only a celebration of the institution’s longevity but also a reaffirmation of its ongoing commitment to humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, the core values that continue to guide its work in an ever-changing world.”
He further noted that the active involvement of the Head of State reflects the nation’s recognition of the CVCV’s vital contribution to national development and its unwavering dedication to humanitarian service. Through these commemorative events, the CVCV reaffirmed its vital role in building a more compassionate, resilient, and equitable society both in Cabo Verde and beyond.
The Africa Center for Strategic Studies has maintained a nearly 26-year relationship with Cabo Verde, cultivating a strong network of military and civilian alumni from the country throughout that time. Many of these professionals are now senior leaders – and others are prominently emerging leaders – in the areas of defense, national security, and humanitarian assistance. They have sat in the Office of the President and the Prime Minister, on the Armed Forces General Staff, in the Office of the National Security Advisor, in the Ministries of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and Justice, in Parliament, and in civil society. They have maintained active exchanges on key defense and security issues with the Africa Center and other U.S. counterparts, which the Africa Center was honored to be able to appreciate through its participation in the Cabo Verde Red Cross’s 50th Anniversary celebration.
Dr. Arlindo Soares de Carvalho, Luisa Chau