The Disaster – Storm Erin hits São Vicente

On the night of August 11 2025, the Cabo Verde islands were hit by Storm Erin – with particularly severe consequences for São Vicente. Lives were lost, flash floods destroyed roads and homes, animals were swept away, and fields were inundated. Many people lost everything and are now in urgent need of support.

Agriculture at Risk – the affected regions

Rural areas such as Madeiral, Calhau, Ribeira de Calhau and surrounding regions were especially hard hit. These agricultural zones are vital to the island’s food supply. They produce not only fruit and vegetables, but also dairy products such as goat cheese. The floods destroyed infrastructure and swept away many farm animals. The local produce from this region supplies households, markets, restaurants, and tourism businesses across São Vicente – forming the backbone of regional food security and economic stability.

‍‍‍ Aracy - a mother fighting for her livelihood

Aracy, 33 years old, a single mother of three, lost almost everything in the disaster. The farm she inherited from her late father and has been running with great dedication was badly damaged by torrential rain and mudslides. The protective wall around the fields collapsed under water levels reaching up to 2.5 meters. The irrigation system was destroyed, essential materials were damaged, and seeds and seedlings were washed away.

Storm Erin not only destroyed Aracy’s livelihood – it also disrupted a fragile local network. Her 4 employees lost their jobs, and produce can no longer be sold. Aracy must now wait until the land can be replanted and harvested again.

What are we raising funds for? – direct and local impact

This campaign is about helping Aracy, her family, and her team rebuild – sustainably. With an amount of CHF 7,200.00, Aracy can restore her farm. Donations will be used for:

✅ Repairing the windmill (water supply system) – approx. CHF 300.00

✅ Temporary wages for Aracy and her team – approx. CHF 3,000.00 (3 months, 5 people)

✅ Short-term employment for clean-up and repair work – approx. CHF 2,000.00 (2 months, 5 people)

✅ Materials for irrigation (pipes, hoses, connectors, etc.) – approx. CHF 1,500.00

✅ Seeds and seedlings for replanting – approx. CHF 400.00

What the storm has taken, we can rebuild together.

Who we are – And why we’re helping

This initiative was launched by Éder and Annina from the travel agency o Ritmo.

During excursions with our clients, we regularly visited Aracy’s farm, got to know her work, and cooked together – offering an authentic glimpse into agricultural life on São Vicente. Over time, this connection grew into a friendship.

Seeing her farm firsthand made it clear how important small-scale agriculture is for local food supply. That’s why we want to support Aracy in rebuilding – together with our clients, partners, and everyone who feels a connection to Cabo Verde. With your help, new roots, new fields, and new perspectives can grow – for Aracy, her children, and other local families.

With your help, new roots can grow, new crops can be planted, and new hope can flourish – for Aracy, her children, and many other families.

Transparency & Trust

We will share progress updates, rebuilding efforts, and aid activities – transparently and directly from the ground.

THANK YOU ♥️

Thank you for being part of this new beginning!