Luanda: Cubango Provincial Governor Jos© Martins has called for greater investment in agriculture, arguing that the sector should occupy a central position in the province's economic development strategy. Speaking at the closing gala of the first edition of Expo Cubango 2026, held from 10 to 13 September, Jos© Martins stressed that investment in agriculture should focus on increasing production, enhancing competitiveness, and strengthening links with the processing industry.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the governor highlighted that agriculture should be developed to create jobs, build skills, and strengthen the provincial economy. Jos© Martins invoked the teachings of Agostinho Neto, emphasizing that agriculture is foundational while industry plays a decisive role. He advocated for a productive and competitive agricultural sector capable of supplying raw materials to an industry focused on processing locally produced goods.
The governor further noted that adding value to agricultural and livestock production presents an opportunity to stimulate local value chains, encourage entrepreneurship, create new income sources for families, and contribute to the diversification of Cubango's economy. In this context, Jos© Martins considered the Livestock Fair, part of the first edition of Expo Cubango 2026, particularly important for promoting livestock farming and bringing together producers, businesspeople, investors, and other stakeholders.
The governor remarked that Expo Cubango had transcended being merely an exhibition, enabling the province to showcase its potential in the economic, business, and productive spheres. He emphasized that the true legacy of the Expo should be its ability to turn the contacts established during the event into business opportunities, investments, and tangible benefits for the population, particularly the youth.
Jos© Martins expressed gratitude to government institutions, diplomatic representatives, businesses, exhibitors, sponsors, producers, entrepreneurs, and the organizing team for their contributions to the success of the first edition of Expo Cubango. He described the initiative as one that placed the province at the center of attention as a hub for networking, opportunities, innovation, investment, and development.
On the occasion, the governor encouraged visitors and participants to become 'ambassadors' of the opportunities and attractions discovered in Menongue and across Cubango. He invited them to return and bring other visitors to contribute to the growth of tourism and income generation for local communities. Jos© Martins also presided over the awards gala of the first edition of Expo Cubango 2026, which aimed to recognize effort, encourage innovation, and motivate participants to pursue excellence.
The governor congratulated the winners in various categories and extended recognition to exhibitors and participants who did not receive awards, reminding them of their crucial role in the initiative's success. 'There are not simply winners and non-winners. There is a business and productive community that chose to believe in Cubango,' the governor stated.
