On 27 September 2025, more than 2,300 people ran and walked through the streets of Praia in the Climate Race, combining sport and climate action in a collective movement for a more sustainable and resilient Cape Verde.
On 27 September 2025, the streets of Praia were filled with energy, purpose and unity as more than 2,300 people walked and ran in the 2025 Climate Race, one of the strongest civic and climate mobilisations in Cape Verde’s history. More than a sporting event, it was a vibrant public declaration of resilience, inclusion and collective commitment to climate action.
Organised by the Institute of Sport and Youth (IDJ), with the support of the Climate Action Programme and a broad coalition of partners, including the National Police, the Armed Forces, the National Directorate of Education and hundreds of volunteers, the initiative demonstrated the power of collective action.
The route was symbolic and intentional, passing through the Sucupira market, the largest informal market in the country, and the neighbourhoods of Achada Santo António and Palmarejo, before ending in Kebra Kanela. Each step was designed to be safe, inclusive and accessible, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.
From young children to the elderly, from Paralympic athletes to people with reduced mobility, the Climate Run symbolised solidarity between generations and universal access. It proved that climate action cannot leave anyone behind. The event brought together a diverse crowd: government institutions, schools, embassies, youth associations, representatives from the private sector, international development agencies and entire families.
At a time when Cape Verde faces increasingly intense climate threats, heat waves, droughts and flash floods, sport emerges as both vulnerable and vital.
This wealth of participation highlighted an essential truth: climate action is not the responsibility of a few, but a mission shared by all.
Sport is affected by climate change, but it is also a powerful tool for raising awareness, promoting health and mobilising communities.
The Climate Run is an inspiring example of how sport can promote climate literacy, strengthen resilience and inspire change.
The Climate Action Programme remains committed to inclusive and sustainable policies, integrating climate priorities into various sectors, including sport, health, education, planning, the blue economy and land use planning.
The 2025 Climate Race is proof that local action can have a global impact and that citizen engagement is at the heart of climate resilience.
This event was both a celebration and a call to action.
A reminder that without climate, there is no game.
And that without action, there is no future. May this be the beginning of a continuous journey towards climate justice, solidarity between generations and a healthier and more resilient Cape Verde.
‘Clima ka ta spera.’
In Cape Verde, we are ready — to run, walk and act. Together. For everyone.