No Energy, No Growth: Why Critical Infrastructure is the Foundation of Development

Critical infrastructure is much more than physical structures or technological systems: it is the skeleton that sustains a country's economic and social life.

When we talk about energy, water, transport, telecommunications, or health, we are talking about pillars that keep businesses operating, markets moving, and people living with dignity.

So what exactly is critical infrastructure?

It encompasses all systems and services essential to the functioning of a modern economy. Without them, daily life would collapse. In Cape Verde, this backbone is composed of networks of airports and ports, energy and water systems, roads, photovoltaic plants, hospitals, and digital communications that connect the country to the world.

But a failure in just one of these sectors can have an immediate impact, as has been seen recently with interruptions in electricity supply, affecting both families and businesses.

Why is it so important for economic growth?

Robust infrastructure accelerates the movement of goods, services, and people. It makes the economy more efficient, reduces costs, and increases productivity.

Companies operating in an environment with stable energy, good roads, and quality digital connectivity naturally become more competitive, both in domestic and external markets.

Furthermore, continuous investment in infrastructure increases the country's attractiveness for new businesses and investors. This is why port, airport, and energy development is considered strategic for Cape Verde's sustainable growth.

The other side of the coin: vulnerability and lessons learned

In an archipelago like Cape Verde, any disruption takes on greater proportions. Episodes such as the cyberattack on NOSI, water supply failures, and recent power outages demonstrate the vulnerability of national critical infrastructure.

These events remind us that building is not enough—maintenance, auditing, and innovation are necessary. The absence of preventive maintenance, lack of transparency in management, and limited investment can turn small failures into major crises.

From physical to digital infrastructure: the new challenge

Today, protecting critical infrastructure is no longer just about roads or power plants. Cybersecurity has become an essential part of the equation. Digital attacks can paralyze entire systems, causing millions in losses and compromising sensitive data of businesses and citizens.

Therefore, collaboration between the public and private sectors is more than desirable—it is necessary. National resilience depends on shared responsibilities, efficient resource management, and a long-term vision.

Cape Verde: between challenges and opportunities

The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. Port modernization projects, expansion of renewable energy, and digitalization of public services demonstrate that the country is moving in the right direction.

The question now is: are we investing enough (and in the right way) to ensure that this infrastructure is sustainable, secure, and accessible to all?

The answer to this question will determine the pace and quality of economic growth in the coming decades.

Food for thought

The debate about critical infrastructure is not just technical: it is a conversation about the future of the country, the businesses, and the people who depend on it. And understanding these issues is essential for those who want to make more informed decisions and build sustainable businesses.

This is why BTOC remains committed to promoting financial and business literacy, to making companies stronger through initiatives such as the "Economia Descomplicada" (Economics Simplified) podcast, broadcast on Rádio Morabeza and available on major digital platforms.

Listen to the complete episode on this topic and discover more about how critical infrastructure influences the business environment in Cape Verde: https://share.transistor.fm/s/f98a1983