Cunene: The Cafu canal in Angola's southern province of Cunene is playing a crucial role in sustaining water supply for both the population and livestock, while also facilitating irrigation for agricultural perimeters. This development is fostering sustainable growth in the region, as reported by the Ministry of Energy and Water (MINEA).
According to Angola Press News Agency, the positive outcomes of the Cafu canal are a result of the Program to Combat the Effects of Drought in Southern Angola (PCESSA). This initiative targets the provinces of Cunene, Namibe, and Hula, providing solutions to counteract the detrimental impacts of drought.
In a communication sent to ANGOP, the Ministry of Energy and Water has highlighted several benefits, including a significant increase in agricultural production. Notably, tomato cultivation has reached levels of over 100 tons per harvest. This increase in production has led to a reduction in the price of a box of tomatoes, dropping from more than 30,000 kwanzas in 2024 to 9,000 in 2025.
Additionally, the local production of other crops such as vegetables, corn, and fruits has reduced the dependency on imports from the provinces of Hula, Namibe, Benguela, and Huambo.
The water supply situation has also improved, with fewer inhabitants needing to travel long distances in search of water due to the canal's consistent flow. This has had a positive effect on public health in the region.
The economic and social value derived from the canal's operation has also led to increased employment opportunities. The agricultural sector, in particular, has seen growth with new businesses and investments emerging in the region.
The Cafu canal stretches 165 kilometers and includes 30 water storage facilities, each capable of holding 30 million cubic meters of water. These facilities supply thousands of people and livestock and irrigate more than 15,000 hectares of land.
