Local government in São Miguel, Cape Verde

Several studies have examined local government in Cape Verde, with emphasis placed on its contribution to democracy, inter-municipal cooperation, and legal dimensions, both institutional and factual, among other aspects. This study aims to enrich knowledge and deepen the debate on local government, focusing on a small Cape Verdean municipality, within a specific political context. Predominantly qualitative, the study used interviews and critical document reviews to examine the local government in São Miguel, aiming to: (1) assess its functionality; (2) reflect on the level and quality of social services provision; and (3) analyse the benefits and challenges of local government in this municipality. The study concluded that, despite persistent challenges, local government has brought social, political, and economic gains to São Miguel. The study recommends reforming the law, empowering citizens, decolonizing the public sphere, and revitalizing the local economy to reverse the prevailing challenges.