Cabo Verde Rate of Natural Increase

Cabo Verde’s rate of natural increase (RNI)—the difference between its crude birth rate and crude death rate—has been relatively modest compared to many of its West African neighbors. As of the early 2020s, Cabo Verde’s RNI hovers around 1.6% per year, reflecting its lower birth rates and improving health outcomes. In contrast, nearby countries on the African mainland, such as Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and The Gambia, typically exhibit higher RNIs, often exceeding 2.5% annually, driven by higher fertility rates and younger populations. Cabo Verde’s slower RNI is partly due to its higher urbanization, better access to healthcare, and significant emigration, which have contributed to declining fertility and mortality rates. This demographic trend sets Cabo Verde apart from its neighbors, whose populations are growing more rapidly and are generally younger, while Cabo Verde’s population growth is more moderate and its demographic profile is gradually aging.

Data from US Census International Database