Cape Verde Named African Capital of Culture for 2028, Highlighted by International Music Festivals

Cape Verde, the West African archipelago known for its musical traditions, has been designated the African Capital of Culture for 2028, according to NPR. The designation follows a period of cultural prominence for the island nation, which hosted two international music festivals in April.

NPR described music as "interwoven with the sounds of daily life" in Cape Verde, highlighting three distinct genres — samba, jazz, and morna — as representative of the country's diverse soundscape. Morna, a genre native to Cape Verde and internationally associated with the late singer Cesária Évora, is central to the nation's cultural identity.

The African Capital of Culture designation is a recognition awarded to cities or nations on the African continent to promote cultural heritage and the arts. Cape Verde's selection for 2028 points to the role its music traditions play in its broader cultural profile on the continent.