Cuando: The governor of the province of Cuando, Lºcio Gon§alves Amaral, called on local churches to support government efforts in combating domestic violence, sexual abuse, early marriage, and pregnancy through consistent reporting.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the governor made this appeal during an ecumenical service held in celebration of the first anniversary of the institutionalization of the province of Cuando, which will be commemorated on December 28. Lºcio Amaral emphasized that these practices hinder family development and urged churches to enhance their educational and spiritual roles, encouraging the faithful to move away from beliefs in quimbandas and riddles.
The governor stated that such practices contribute to family division, breakdown, and community instability, and stressed the need to discourage beliefs that do not promote social peace. In the education sector, Amaral urged religious leaders to motivate all school-age children, especially girls, to attend school to better prepare for their futures and the future leadership of Cuando.
With regard to traditional culture, the governor advocated for cultural dances that uphold values and discourage those that promote sensuality, ensuring children are not objectified. Amaral expressed gratitude to the churches for their contributions throughout 2025 and called for continued support in 2026 across political, social, and economic spheres.
He noted that the province of Cuando has 37 churches, with 28 being legal and nine awaiting legalization, and urged these religious groups to work towards their official recognition. Furthermore, he encouraged churches to foster love and combat harmful practices like tribalism, separatism, and regionalism, which hinder the province's collective development.
Pastor Ant³nio Calei Capamba of the Evangelical Congregational Church of Angola (IECA) acknowledged significant improvements in electricity supply and access to drinking water in Mavinga, changes that were once unimaginable for residents. He remarked that the elevation of Cuando to provincial status has brought both benefits and challenges, transforming Mavinga from "Lands of the End of the World" to a land of opportunities.
Christian leader Helena Vihoma Marcos from the Pentecostal Assembly Church confirmed the substantial progress Mavinga has made in education, health, and infrastructure, particularly the improved access roads on the Cuito Cuanavale/Mavinga section, which now facilitate the movement of people and goods.
