Presidency of the Republic of Cape Verde - Note of Condolence
It was with deep consternation and regret that I learned of the death, today, in São Vicente, of Humberto Bettencourt Santos, affectionately treated by all as Humbertona, a multifaceted figure, a person of fine manners, a Fighter for the Freedom of the Fatherland, who, very early and as a member of the collective of university students in Belgium, he joined the causes of freedom and independence in Cape Verde, having played a prominent role in mobilizing other compatriots, diplomat and expert musician, in whose memory I bow with respect.
It was with deep consternation and regret that I learned of the death, today, in São Vicente, of Humberto Bettencourt Santos, affectionately treated by all as Humbertona, a multifaceted figure, a person of fine manners, a Fighter for the Freedom of the Fatherland, who, very early and as a member of the collective of university students in Belgium, he joined the causes of freedom and independence in Cape Verde, having played a prominent role in mobilizing others compatriots, diplomat and excellent musician, in whose memory I bow with respect.
Humbertona's guitar solos are part of our musical heritage and constitute a milestone in Cape Verde's discography. Still during the liberation struggle, the edition of the album “Sodadi”, and its protest songs, were of great importance in the period of struggle for national independence, taking into account its wide dissemination within the emigrant community and also in Cape Verde. .
As a Diplomat, Humberto Bettencourt Santos was Ambassador in Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and at the United Nations. He was also Director General of Fisheries and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Cabo Verde Telecom.
With the physical disappearance of this great Cape Verdean, the nation undoubtedly became poorer. Humbertona is a grateful memory of a generous, humanist, good-natured and witty person, who will always be remembered for his human qualities and for the enormous musical legacy left, with several albums edited and which are appreciated by generations of Cape Verdeans.
In this moment of mourning, on my own behalf and as President of the Republic, I address feelings of solidarity and deepest condolences to the Sons and other family members of Humberto Bettencourt Santos, sharing the pain that saddens us all for the irreparable loss.
Beach, August 10, 2023
Jose Maria Neves
President
