Vinci airports begin US$80M upgrade in Cape Verde. CEO Nicolas Notebaert has promised to boost Cape Verde’s economy and airports.
He met with President José Maria Neves to talk about a 40-year plan. The meeting also thanked Cape Verde for trusting Vinci with airport management.
The company has paid the first chunk of 35 million euros. Another EUR45 million (US$50) will follow soon.
The CEO listed several focus areas.
These include social benefits, environmental care, economic growth, and safety. “We’ll add green energy at Sal, Boa Vista, and Praia airports,” he said.
Notebaert praised the local airport staff. “They’ve done a great job, and we’ll keep training them,” he noted.
He also said the contract was Vinci’s first in Africa. “It’s an honor to work in a country that values sustainability,” he added.
Other executives joined the meeting with the President. The contract was signed last July. It gave Vinci control over seven airports in Cape Verde for 40 years.
Vinci Airports manages 72 airports worldwide. The company made an eco-friendly pledge in 2016. It aims to halve its carbon footprint by 2030.
It also plans to reach zero emissions by 2050.
Context
Cape Verde has long aimed to be a travel hub. Its strategic location makes it a key point for flights. Tourism is a big part of the country’s economy.
Upgrading airports could make travel easier and boost tourism further.
Vinci’s move into Africa marks an expansion of its global reach. The company already manages airports in 13 countries. This includes key hubs in Europe and Asia.
The eco-friendly plans align with global trends. More companies are committing to reduce carbon emissions.
Vinci’s green initiatives set an example for other businesses in Cape Verde. This could contribute to the country’s own sustainability goals.