A modern maternity ward built by China at Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital in Mindelo, São Vicente Island, was formally handed over to Cape Verdean authorities in a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and Chinese Ambassador to Cape Verde Zhang Yang. The facility is the largest medical infrastructure project in Cape Verde since independence, marking a milestone in China–Cape Verde development cooperation.
The new building, constructed by China Railway 14th Bureau Group Co., Ltd., features 150 beds, advanced delivery suites, a neonatal intensive-care unit, and specialized obstetrics operating theaters. In addition, China has pledged two years of technical support and professional training for local medical staff to ensure the facility operates at international standards.
Prime Minister Correia e Silva described the project as a “significant achievement of practical collaboration,” one that will enhance maternal and child healthcare across São Vicente and the surrounding islands.
Hospital Director Helena Rebelo Rodrigues praised the new ward as bringing “new hope to thousands of women and newborns” and marking a historic upgrade in local medical capacity.
Ambassador Zhang emphasized that the handover reflects a deepening partnership rooted in mutual trust and friendship. He stated that the event marks a fresh starting point for expanding China–Cape Verde cooperation across health, education, and infrastructure sectors.
