Artificial Intelligence law at Cape Verde
Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) is actively shaping its legal and regulatory landscape to accommodate the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. While there isn't a standalone AI law yet, several recent initiatives and frameworks are laying the groundwork for responsible AI development and deployment.
🇨🇻 Data Protection and AI
Cape Verde has significantly updated its data protection laws to align with international standards, including the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The 2001 Data Protection Act was amended in 2013 and again in 2021 to address challenges posed by interconnected systems, cross-border data flows, and technologies like AI and cloud computing. These amendments empower the Comissão Nacional de Protecção de Dados (CNPD) to oversee compliance and safeguard individuals' rights in the digital age. (African Law & Business)
In June 2023, Cape Verde signed the Amending Protocol to the Council of Europe’s Convention 108+, reinforcing its commitment to data protection and privacy in the context of AI. (DataGuidance)
🛡️ Cybersecurity Legal Framework
In January 2021, Cape Verde enacted a comprehensive Legal Regime for Cybersecurity (Decree-Law No. 9/2021) to enhance digital infrastructure security. This framework applies to public institutions, critical infrastructure operators, and digital service providers, requiring them to implement security measures, conduct internal audits, and report significant incidents to the National Cybersecurity Agency (Centro Nacional de Cibersegurança). Non-compliance can result in fines ranging from CVE 20,000 to CVE 1,000,000. (Legal 500)
🚀 Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Cape Verde is fostering a conducive environment for AI and digital innovation through strategic initiatives:(DevelopmentAid)
Special Economic Zone for Technologies (ZEET): Established in 2022, ZEET offers tax incentives and infrastructure to tech startups and R&D entities, aiming to boost youth employment and technological research. (UNCTAD Investment Policy Hub)
State Budget Law for 2023: Introduced R&D tax incentives for qualifying companies, including deductions for ecological product design projects and exemptions for profits reinvested in R&D activities. (UNCTAD Investment Policy Hub)
Digital Cabo Verde Project: Supported by the World Bank, this initiative focuses on legal and regulatory assessments to identify gaps in next-generation telecommunications, data governance, and emerging technologies like AI. (DevelopmentAid)
🌐 Regional and International Engagement
Cape Verde is actively participating in regional and international efforts to shape AI governance:
Digital Transformation Goals: The government aims to digitize 60% of public services by 2026 and 80% by 2030, with initiatives like the Weblabs program enrolling students in digital skills. (World Bank Group)
International Cooperation: Cape Verde has signed the Malabo Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection, reinforcing its commitment to regional standards in AI and data governance.(DataGuidance)
🔍 Looking Ahead
While Cape Verde does not yet have a dedicated AI law, its evolving legal and regulatory frameworks indicate a proactive approach to AI governance. The country's participation in international conventions and its focus on cybersecurity, data protection, and innovation suggest that a comprehensive AI policy may be forthcoming. Stakeholders in AI development and deployment in Cape Verde should stay informed about these developments to ensure compliance and alignment with emerging standards.
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