The tap water quality in Cape Verde can vary depending on the location and the infrastructure of the local water supply system. However, the tap water quality is exceptionally high and safe, due to the desalination infrastructure, plus the fortunate circumstances that the islands are small – and thus manageable in terms of water distribution.
Disclaimer: This is not advice on whether YOU should drink tap water in Cape Verde, but a general overview of the situation!
Is tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
In general, tap water in more urbanized areas is considered safe to drink, although most visitors may prefer to drink bottled water or boiled water for extra caution.
In some rural areas of Cape Verde, the tap water may not be treated or adequately purified and, therefore, may not be safe for consumption. In these cases, it is recommended to boil the water before drinking or to rely on bottled water.
To ensure safe drinking water while visiting Cape Verde, you should avoid drinking water that has not been treated, using a water filter, purification tablets, or sticking to bottled water.
How is tap water produced in Cape Verde?
In Cape Verde, tap water is produced through a combination of methods, including desalination of seawater, treatment of groundwater, and surface water treatment.
Desalination plants are used to convert seawater into freshwater, which is then distributed through the local water supply systems. Desalination is the primary method of producing tap water, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. This is because Cape Verde is an arid country with limited freshwater resources and relies heavily on seawater desalination to meet the water demands of its population and visitors. Desalination infrastructure has been in place since 1992.
Desalination plants are located in various parts of the country and use reverse osmosis or other technologies to remove salt and other impurities from seawater, producing freshwater that is safe for drinking and other uses. The desalinated water is then distributed through the local water supply systems to homes, businesses, and other users.
However, in some (mostly rural) areas of Cape Verde, tap water may be produced from groundwater or surface water sources and may not be safe for consumption.
Is desalinated water safe to use and drink?
Desalinated water is generally considered to be of high quality and safe for consumption. Desalination is a process that removes salt and other impurities from seawater, producing freshwater that meets the highest drinking water standards.
Desalinated water undergoes a rigorous treatment process that includes multiple stages of filtration, reverse osmosis, and disinfection to remove all types of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. The water is also constantly monitored to ensure that it meets the required water quality standards.
However, some potential health risks associated with the consumption of desalinated water over the long term, particularly due to the removal of important minerals such as calcium and magnesium during the desalination process. To address these concerns, some desalination plants have added mineral supplements to the water to ensure that it contains the necessary minerals for good health.
Do we drink tap water in Cape Verde?
Yes, we actually do at times in safe locations, especially in Mindelo. Also, the use of ice made from tap water is usually no problem. In Sal and Boa Vista, we only drink bottled water. There are always exceptions, though, like in every country. Until now, we have not had any problems. For babies and small children, we always recommend bottled water, only.
Water infrastructure and distribution
Tap water in Cape Verde is distributed through a network of pipes and reservoirs that vary in size and capacity, depending on the location and population density of the area. The distribution network is managed by the National Water and Sanitation Company (ANAS), which is responsible for ensuring that all residents and visitors have access to safe and reliable water services.
In urban areas, such as the capital city of Praia and other large cities, the distribution network is well-developed, and most homes and businesses are connected to the system. In these areas, tap water is typically available 24 hours a day, and the quality of the water is generally good.
Tap water in Cape Verde is sometimes transported by trucks and tanks to certain locations in emergency situations or during periods of drought or other water shortages; this is, however, not a common practice for routine water supply today!
In more remote and rural areas of Cape Verde, the distribution network may be less developed, and access to tap water may be limited or unreliable. In these areas, residents may rely on alternative sources of water, such as wells or rainwater harvesting, to meet their water needs.
