Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II (seated left), Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, welcoming King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse. Pictures: DOUGLAS ANANE-FRIMPONG
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Traditional Leaders Call for Investment at 62nd Fetu Afahye as Andre Ayew Joins National Maulid Celebrations

October 2026 has been marked by a vibrant display of cultural heritage and religious devotion across Ghana, as the nation celebrated both the 62nd Oguaa Fetu Afahye in Cape Coast and the National Maulid in Accra. These high-profile events brought together traditional rulers, political figures, and sports icons, serving as platforms for both the preservation of history and the promotion of modern human development. Under the theme "From Memory to Momentum: The Black Star Rising," the Fetu Afahye festival highlighted a unique cultural convergence between the Oguaa, Ga, and Gonja peoples, emphasizing a unified vision for Ghana's future. In Cape Coast, traditional rulers used the grand procession and cultural festivities to issue a clarion call for increased investment in education, healthcare, and technology. The Omanhen of Oguaa, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, alongside the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru, urged the continent to learn from its history to build a more resilient future. The celebration was not merely symbolic; it also served as a critical touchpoint for public education. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA), led by Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, actively engaged festival-goers to promote petroleum safety and consumer rights. Mr. Tameklo emphasized that such gatherings are essential for the NPA to connect with diverse stakeholders and ensure public safety standards are met nationwide. Simultaneously, in the capital city of Accra, the 2026 National Maulid drew thousands of Muslims to celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The event, hosted by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, featured a surprise appearance by former Black Stars captain Andre Ayew. Dressed in traditional jalabiya, Ayew joined prominent dignitaries, including former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in a night of prayer and recitation. The presence of the football star added a layer of excitement to the proceedings, which focused on the core virtues of peace, unity, and humility. These concurrent celebrations underscore the vital role that traditional and religious institutions play in Ghana's social fabric. While the Fetu Afahye focused on the "momentum" of human development and safety education, the National Maulid reinforced the spiritual foundations of national peace. Together, these events demonstrate how Ghana continues to leverage its rich cultural identity to foster unity and drive progress in the year 2026.

Minister Mahama Ayariga and Mayor Allotey Lead Accra Sanitation Drive; New Hourly Sweeping Directive for Traders
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Minister Mahama Ayariga and Mayor Allotey Lead Accra Sanitation Drive; New Hourly Sweeping Directive for Traders

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, joined the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, on September 5, 2026, to spearhead the September edition of National Sanitation Day (NSD). The high-level inspection covered the heart of Accra’s Central Business District (CBD), stretching from the Kinbu Traffic Light through Tudu. The exercise was designed to evaluate public compliance and encourage a culture of cleanliness among the city's business community and residents. During the event, Minister Ayariga took a hands-on approach to leadership by actively participating in the cleanup, sweeping sections of the street and collecting litter alongside local traders. He emphasized that maintaining a clean environment is a collective duty that requires the active cooperation of the government, private businesses, and individual citizens. Mayor Allotey briefed the Minister on current participation levels, noting the progress made while highlighting the need for sustained efforts to keep the capital’s commercial hubs free of waste. In a significant move to ensure that the impact of the National Sanitation Day extends beyond the monthly event, Mayor Allotey issued a new directive requiring traders in the CBD to sweep their immediate surroundings every hour. This instruction aims to prevent the accumulation of waste during business hours and to uphold the sanitation standards achieved during the monthly cleanup. Allotey stressed that clean practices must become a continuous habit rather than an occasional activity, urging traders to take full responsibility for the cleanliness of their designated areas. This latest push for improved sanitation in Accra reflects the government's broader strategy to transform the city's waste management culture. By transitioning from a periodic cleanup model to a daily maintenance requirement, city authorities are signaling a more rigorous approach to urban hygiene. The success of this hourly sweeping directive will depend on consistent enforcement and the willingness of the trading community to adapt to these higher standards of environmental responsibility.

Executive Women Network to Celebrate 10th Anniversary with Accra Leadership Conference and Expo
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Executive Women Network to Celebrate 10th Anniversary with Accra Leadership Conference and Expo

The Executive Women Network (EWN) is set to mark a significant milestone with its EWN@10 Conference & Expo, celebrating a decade of empowering female professionals in Ghana. Scheduled for October 1-2 at the Palms Convention Centre in Accra, the event is themed "A Decade of Leadership, A Future Toward Holistic Impact." The conference aims to bring together a diverse cohort of women leaders and stakeholders to reflect on the network's progress since its inception in 2016 and to strategize on the future of female leadership across the continent. Since its founding, the EWN has grown into a powerful collective of over 200 influential female leaders, extending its influence to more than 9,500 women through various initiatives. The organization has prioritized mentorship and leadership development, with a specific focus on reaching women in Northern Ghana. This decade of growth has established the network as a vital platform for professional advocacy, providing members with the tools and connections necessary to excel in high-level corporate and entrepreneurial environments. The upcoming conference will focus on three central pillars of impact: Self & Family, Career, and Legacy. These themes are designed to foster holistic discussions on how women can achieve professional excellence without compromising personal well-being or community contribution. The event will feature an impressive lineup of notable speakers, including Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, who will share insights on navigating leadership challenges and creating sustainable legacies in a rapidly evolving global economy. In addition to the keynote addresses and panel discussions, the EWN@10 Expo will provide extensive networking opportunities for attendees to showcase their work and build strategic partnerships. As the network enters its second decade, the conference serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for the next generation of impact-driven leaders. By emphasizing holistic success, the Executive Women Network continues to redefine the landscape of leadership for women in Ghana and beyond.

Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw and Krachi East MCE Call for Sustained Investment in Africa’s Food Systems
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Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw and Krachi East MCE Call for Sustained Investment in Africa’s Food Systems

The push for robust agricultural transformation in Africa took center stage this week as leaders and policymakers emphasized the critical need for domestic investment and local implementation to ensure food security. At the Africa Food Systems Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda, Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, Chairman of Ghana’s Parliamentary Committee on Food and Agriculture, issued a clarion call for African governments to prioritize food systems. This high-level advocacy comes as local success stories, such as the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' poultry initiative in Ghana’s Krachi East Municipality, demonstrate the tangible impact of targeted agricultural support on household incomes and local economies. Speaking at the Kigali summit, Dr. Jasaw highlighted that domestic investments in food systems across the continent remain critically low. He urged governments to develop attractive, strategic investment plans that encourage financial institutions to support the sector. The forum, which focused on job creation and strategic partnerships, underscored the vital role of young entrepreneurs in driving agricultural innovation. Dr. Jasaw noted that with the right government support, youth-led agribusinesses could become commercially viable engines of growth, transforming the continent’s agricultural landscape from subsistence-based to a modern, value-added industry. Evidence of such transformation is already emerging at the grassroots level through the "Feed Ghana" project. In the Krachi East Municipality, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Safo Nketia reported the successful distribution of 10,000 birds to 250 households under the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' initiative. The project has not only boosted poultry rearing for food and income among residents but has also catalyzed the local economy. The surge in poultry farming has led to the establishment of new feed shops in the area, creating additional business opportunities and a more resilient agricultural ecosystem. Nketia expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for the initiative, noting its role in empowering local families. The success in Krachi East serves as a practical model for the broader policy goals discussed by Dr. Jasaw on the continental stage. While the distribution of livestock provides immediate relief and economic stimulus, both leaders agree that the long-term sustainability of these programs hinges on consistent funding and the integration of innovative practices. Moving forward, the focus remains on expanding these initiatives to reach more households while building the financial frameworks necessary to transition African agriculture into a highly productive and youth-inclusive sector.

Agriculture employs over 80 percent of the population with tea and tobacco major exports. By GIANLUIGI GUERCIA (AFP)
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AGN Chair Champions Food-Climate Integration as Africa Balances Resource Wealth and Environmental Stewardship

From the halls of Addis Ababa to the forests of Ghana and the mineral-rich landscapes of Malawi, Africa is at a pivotal crossroads between climate adaptation and economic transformation. Nana Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) on Climate Change, recently set a continental tone by demanding that food systems be integrated into global climate policy. This call for strategic alignment comes as nations like Ghana double down on afforestation to combat environmental degradation, while Malawi prepares for a critical mineral boom that could reshape its economic future. Speaking at a high-level gathering in Ethiopia, Dr. Amoah emphasized that African communities cannot afford a trade-off between food security and climate action. With COP31 in Antalya and COP32 slated for Addis Ababa in 2027, the AGN Chair highlighted the urgent need to close financial gaps in adaptation funding. He urged civil society and international negotiators to develop a roadmap that ensures local actors can access the resources necessary to implement tangible solutions, moving beyond high-level rhetoric to address real-world challenges faced by the continent's most vulnerable populations. In Ghana, environmental expert Dr. Owusu Fordjour Aidoo echoed this urgency for local action, identifying tree planting and afforestation as vital defenses against a changing climate. Dr. Aidoo warned that illegal mining, logging, and bushfires are severely eroding the nation's forest cover, exacerbating environmental degradation. He called for a national communal effort involving youth, traditional leaders, and religious figures to protect newly planted trees and restore biodiversity, framing environmental stewardship as a collective responsibility essential for Ghana's ecological balance. While Ghana focuses on restoration, Malawi is looking toward an industrial leap through its looming mining boom in rare earth and critical minerals. The Malawian government aims to increase mining's contribution to GDP from a mere 1% to 12% by 2027, with mineral exports potentially reaching $30 billion by 2040. However, experts warn that this promise of transformation carries the risk of the resource curse. To avoid the pitfalls of exploitation and corruption, analysts stress that robust governance and active local participation are required to ensure these wealth-generating projects benefit the broader population rather than a select few. These developments across the continent underscore a unified theme: the necessity of proactive governance in the face of both environmental and economic shifts. Whether it is through integrating food security into climate negotiations, sustaining national afforestation programs, or managing the extraction of critical minerals, the path forward for Africa depends on bridging the gap between policy and practice. As these nations prepare for significant changes over the next decade, the success of these initiatives will rely on the ability of leaders to ensure that growth is both sustainable and inclusive.

Ghana and Burkina Faso Strengthen Public Sector Cooperation and AI Integration at 10th HR Café
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Ghana and Burkina Faso Strengthen Public Sector Cooperation and AI Integration at 10th HR Café

Ghana and Burkina Faso have committed to deepening their bilateral ties through enhanced cooperation in public sector administration, human capital development, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This commitment was solidified during the 10th edition of the HR Café forum held in Accra, themed "Shaping the Future of Work: Human Capital, Artificial Intelligence, and Administrative Cross-Learning between Ghana and Burkina Faso." The event brought together approximately 300 stakeholders, including high-level government officials, HR professionals, and international diplomats, to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving global workforce. Representing the Ghanaian government, Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo emphasized that sustainable reform is predicated on the capability and ethics of public sector personnel. She highlighted the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II as a cornerstone of Ghana’s approach to modernization. Furthermore, she announced the introduction of new governance guidelines designed to regulate digital conduct among public institutions and government appointees. While acknowledging that AI holds significant potential for boosting national productivity, Addo cautioned that its adoption must be grounded in careful workforce planning and rigorous ethical standards. The partnership also addresses Burkina Faso’s specific development goals, particularly its ongoing industrialization agenda. The Ambassador of Burkina Faso expressed the nation's desire for technical support from Ghana in the fields of education and vocational skills development. Complementing this perspective, the Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) reminded participants of the critical need to balance technological innovation with accountability. The forum served as a platform for administrative cross-learning, allowing both nations to exchange institutional experiences and strengthen their technical cooperation frameworks. As the "Future of Work" continues to be shaped by digital transformation, this cross-border collaboration signifies a proactive step toward regional stability and economic growth. By aligning their public sector strategies and human capital initiatives, Ghana and Burkina Faso aim to build more resilient institutions capable of meeting modern challenges. The actionable ideas generated during the HR Café are expected to provide a roadmap for responsible AI usage and improved administrative efficiency across both West African nations.

African youth issue Legon Declaration demanding debt cancellation, reparations
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African Youth Leaders Adopt Legon Declaration in Bold Push for Reparations and Economic Sovereignty

At a landmark International Youth Forum held in Accra, over 200 delegates from across the continent have adopted the Legon Declaration, a comprehensive manifesto demanding debt cancellation, reparations for colonial-era injustices, and an immediate end to neo-colonial exploitation. Organized by the Pan-African Progressive Front, the forum served as a rallying point for a new generation of activists committed to dismantling the systemic barriers that have long hindered Africa’s growth. The declaration specifically targets the CFA Franc and advocates for the establishment of a micro-lawsuit mechanism to challenge exploitative international agreements, marking a significant escalation in youth-led advocacy for continental justice. Dr. Abu Sakara Foster, founder of the National Interest Movement, challenged the youth during the Accra dialogue to take direct charge of the continent's liberation. He emphasized that true freedom remains elusive due to global constraints on trade and resource management that continue to suppress African economies. Dr. Sakara called for the dismantling of these restrictive economic and political structures, urging the youth to seek practical integration with the global African diaspora. He argued that leveraging the resources and knowledge of the diaspora is essential for building sustainable, self-reliant communities that can redefine Africa's future trajectory. Adding weight to these calls, veteran Pan-Africanist and journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr urged African nations to reclaim their natural resources and reject Western economic models that do not serve local interests. Speaking at the forum, Pratt criticized the tendency of African governments to sign disadvantageous agreements with foreign powers, specifically highlighting the dilemma surrounding the potential privatization of the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO). He stressed that reparations must be viewed holistically—not just as financial compensation, but as a total reclaiming of sovereignty and a critical re-evaluation of educational curricula that still carry colonial biases. The movement arrives at a time of growing awareness regarding the irony of Africa’s "abundance," where the continent possesses vast natural wealth yet remains underdeveloped. This sentiment was echoed by the UN-supported "Correct the Map" initiative, which points out that even geographical representations like the Mercator projection have historically minimized Africa's actual size and importance. By aligning geographical correction with economic and political reform, the youth delegates in Accra signaled a unified commitment to shifting the continent from a supplier of raw materials to a hub of industrialization and self-determined progress, ensuring that future generations are no longer "thirsty beside a river of abundance."

Foreign Affairs Minister Ablakwa Confirms Four Deaths as Stranded Ghanaians Urge Government to Resume South Africa Evacuations
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Foreign Affairs Minister Ablakwa Confirms Four Deaths as Stranded Ghanaians Urge Government to Resume South Africa Evacuations

Ghanaians currently stranded in South Africa have issued an urgent appeal to the government to reopen the voluntary evacuation program following the official conclusion of the exercise on September 4, 2026. The plea comes in the wake of escalating xenophobic violence that has already claimed the lives of four Ghanaian nationals between April and July of this year. While the government successfully repatriated 1,964 citizens during the initial phase, many remain trapped in increasingly perilous conditions, having lost their livelihoods, homes, and sense of security to targeted attacks by vigilante groups. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the fatalities during a briefing on the government's diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that Ghana has demanded thorough investigations into the killings. The Minister highlighted that while nearly 2,000 individuals have been brought home since May 2026, the threat to those remaining is persistent. The violence, often fueled by local vigilante groups, has left many Ghanaians in a state of distress, particularly those who lack valid work permits and are unable to access local legal protections or employment. Among those pleading for a second chance at evacuation is Margaret Amenuvegbe, a hairdresser who has lived in South Africa for 14 years. Amenuvegbe explained that many citizens who initially registered for the program failed to complete the process due to legitimate concerns regarding overcrowding and inadequate facilities at the temporary screening centers. She noted that these logistical fears, coupled with the rapid deterioration of the security situation, left a significant number of people behind when the final group of 41 returnees departed. "We are ready to return at a moment's notice," she stated, reflecting the desperation of those now facing homelessness and unemployment. The Ghanaian government now faces mounting pressure to address the plight of those who missed the previous window. Beyond the immediate need for transportation, the situation has underscored broader issues regarding the status of the Ghanaian diaspora in South Africa, including the complexities of immigration documentation. As the Foreign Ministry continues its diplomatic engagements with South African authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens, the stranded community emphasizes that a renewed evacuation window is the only viable solution to prevent further loss of life and restore the dignity of those caught in the crossfire of xenophobic unrest.

Tanzania Mourns First Gentleman Hafidh Ameir Hassan Following Sudden Passing
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Tanzania Mourns First Gentleman Hafidh Ameir Hassan Following Sudden Passing

Tanzania is in a state of mourning following the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Mr. Hassan passed away at approximately 08:00 local time on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. His death was officially announced by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who confirmed that the First Gentleman succumbed to a heart condition. The news has triggered a wave of sympathy across the country and the wider East African region as the nation stands in solidarity with President Samia during this period of personal loss. Hafidh Ameir Hassan was widely respected for maintaining a low profile throughout his life, even after his wife ascended to the presidency in 2021. An agricultural academic by profession, he largely avoided the political spotlight, focusing instead on his scholarly contributions and his family. The couple had been married since 1978 and shared four children, including Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who serves as a politician in the Zanzibar House of Representatives. As Tanzania's first First Gentleman, Mr. Hassan's quiet dignity provided a steady, supportive presence behind the scenes for the President. The passing of the First Gentleman has drawn immediate tributes from several regional heads of state, underscoring strong diplomatic ties within the East African Community. Kenyan President William Ruto and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema were among the first to offer their condolences, expressing deep sadness and offering prayers for President Samia and her family. These messages of support from across the continent highlight the shared grief among neighboring nations and the high regard in which the Tanzanian First Family is held. Funeral arrangements are currently in progress, with the burial expected to take place in Kizimkazi. As the government and citizens prepare to bid farewell to a man described as a cornerstone of the President’s personal life, the focus remains on supporting the Head of State through this difficult transition. The loss marks a poignant moment for Tanzania, as the nation reflects on the life of a dedicated academic and family man who served his country through his steadfast support of its leader.

Ghana and Uganda Strengthen Petroleum Sector Ties Through Regulatory Peer-Learning Engagement
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Ghana and Uganda Strengthen Petroleum Sector Ties Through Regulatory Peer-Learning Engagement

Ghana and Uganda have solidified their partnership in the upstream petroleum sector through a high-level peer-learning initiative designed to enhance regulatory capacity and resource management. Hosted by the Petroleum Commission of Ghana, the engagement brought together the Board of Directors of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda to share critical insights into petroleum governance and operational experiences. This collaboration comes at a pivotal moment as Uganda prepares for its first commercial oil production, seeking to leverage Ghana’s established regulatory framework and lessons learned from its years of production. Ms. Emeafa Hardcastle, CEO of Ghana's Petroleum Commission, and Board Chairman Ernest Thompson led the discussions, emphasizing that intra-African cooperation is vital for effective resource management and ensuring that citizens remain the primary beneficiaries of the sector. The dialogue focused heavily on local content development, with both nations exploring strategies to increase indigenous participation in the petroleum value chain. Technical presentations also covered legal frameworks, investment attraction strategies, and the implementation of rigorous health, safety, and environmental standards. The Ugandan delegation, led by Prof. Vincent Bagire, expressed a keen interest in Ghana’s exploration efforts, including activities in the Voltaian Basin, as a roadmap for their own upstream development. Beyond technical specifics, the meeting addressed the shared challenges of navigating the complexities of the global energy market and the energy transition. Both nations concluded the engagement with a commitment to establish a more formal, sustained knowledge-sharing arrangement, ensuring that their regulatory bodies can continue to exchange data and best practices as they advance their respective oil and gas sectors.

Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George Links Illegal Mining to Quarter of Ghana's Fibre-Optic Disruptions
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Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George Links Illegal Mining to Quarter of Ghana's Fibre-Optic Disruptions

Ghana's telecommunications infrastructure is facing a growing threat from illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which is now responsible for approximately 25% of all fibre-optic cable cuts across the country. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George revealed these statistics during a Government Accountability Series event, highlighting a significant and often overlooked consequence of the galamsey crisis. The Minister noted that while legitimate entities like road construction contractors typically report accidental damage to underground cables, illegal miners operate in secrecy and fail to notify telecommunications companies when infrastructure is breached. This lack of reporting complicates repair efforts and jeopardizes the reliability of voice and data services nationwide. Beyond the digital impact, the environmental and legal crackdown on illegal mining continues to intensify. On September 4, 2026, the Forestry Commission's Rapid Response Unit conducted a dawn operation in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve, a critical biodiversity area and water source for millions. The operation led to the arrest of 12 individuals in the Sagyimase community and the seizure of five motorbikes and various mining equipment. The suspects have been handed over to the Kyebi District Police as part of the government's commitment to deterring illegal activities within protected forest reserves and preserving the nation's natural resources. In tandem with enforcement, state institutions are seeking to institutionalize more sustainable mining practices. The Christian Council of Ghana recently commended the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) for its focus on transparency and environmental stewardship. During a consultative meeting, GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi outlined new initiatives aimed at enhancing local gold refining and establishing international-standard laboratories to better manage the country's mineral wealth. Dr. Joyce Laco Steiner of the Christian Council emphasized that responsible resource management is essential for the welfare of future generations, signaling a unified front between religious leaders and state agencies. The convergence of infrastructure damage, environmental degradation, and the push for reform underscores the complex challenge facing President John Mahama's administration in its fight against illegal mining. While the Forestry Commission and GoldBod are making strides in enforcement and policy shifts, the high frequency of fibre-optic disruptions highlights the pervasive nature of galamsey’s impact on modern Ghanaian life. As the government continues its multi-sectoral approach, the focus remains on protecting both the country's digital future and its ecological heritage from the far-reaching effects of illicit extraction.

Cape Verde Bus Tragedy: At Least 25 Dead on Fogo Island as Crash Claims Young Lives
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Cape Verde Bus Tragedy: At Least 25 Dead on Fogo Island as Crash Claims Young Lives

A devastating road accident on Cape Verde's Fogo Island has claimed the lives of at least 25 people, leaving the small island nation in a state of profound shock and mourning. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has struck the heart of the community, as local authorities report that the vast majority of the victims were children and teenagers. This tragedy ranks as one of the deadliest transport accidents in the archipelago's recent history, highlighting the extreme vulnerability of young lives in transit. Details emerging from the scene indicate that the bus was carrying a significant number of passengers when the crash occurred. According to the Public Radio Network RCV, the impact was severe enough to cause immediate fatalities for many on board, while several other survivors sustained serious injuries and were rushed to local medical facilities for emergency treatment. While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by local law enforcement and transport officials, the disproportionately high number of casualties among young people has led to speculation regarding the nature of the trip and the safety measures in place at the time of the disaster. Fogo Island, known for its iconic volcanic landscape and tight-knit communities, is now grappling with the logistical and emotional aftermath of this catastrophe. Emergency services and local government officials have been working to support the grieving families and manage the influx of injured persons at healthcare centers. The tragedy is expected to spark a broader national conversation in Cape Verde regarding road safety regulations, the maintenance standards for public transport vehicles, and the specific safety protocols required for transporting minors across the islands' often challenging and rugged terrain.