Luanda: A total of 177 social infrastructure projects will be inaugurated nationwide between 1 and 30 September as part of the 17 September Commemorations, which will culminate in the Central Act marking National Hero Day in Cuanza-Sul Province.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the inaugurations cover the sectors of education, health, energy, housing, and transport infrastructure, including agricultural schools, health facilities, thermal power plants, housing projects, rehabilitated roads, and multi-purpose sports grounds. The information was provided on Tuesday by the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MAT) during the launch of the commemorations, which involve all 21 provinces and 326 municipalities across the country in tribute to the Founder of the Nation and National Hero, Ant³nio Agostinho Neto.
The activities are being held under the theme 'Let us return to our fields to increase agricultural production' and mark the 104th anniversary of Ant³nio Agostinho Neto. In the transport infrastructure sector, the programme includes the reopening of roads whose rehabilitation has been completed, with the aim of improving the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and supporting the distribution of agricultural produce.
The inauguration of thermal power plants is also planned in different parts of the country to strengthen electricity supply to families in municipalities covered by the new political-administrative division. In the social sector, health facilities and schools, as well as structures belonging to defence and security institutions, will be equipped.
The programme also includes the opening of multi-purpose sports grounds to encourage sporting activities and identify new talent within communities. The commemorations feature cultural, sporting, and social activities, lectures in schools, workshops, seminars, and visits to sites associated with the life and work of Ant³nio Agostinho Neto.
One of the highlights will be the traditional 'Combatant's Bonfire', bringing together young people and members of older generations to discuss the life and legacy of the Founder of the Nation, with the participation of historians and other invited personalities.
Cuanza-Sul Province will host the Central Act of the commemorations on 17 September, bringing together members of the Executive, political figures, traditional and religious authorities, youth organisations, and other invited guests. In Luanda, on the same date, a National Flag hoisting ceremony will take place at the Agostinho Neto Memorial, followed by the laying of a wreath at the sarcophagus where his mortal remains rest.
Born on 17 September 1922 in Kaxicane, Icolo e Bengo Municipality, Ant³nio Agostinho Neto was a doctor, poet, and nationalist who played a central role in the struggle for National Independence. As leader of the MPLA, he became Angola's first President following the proclamaation of National Independence on 11 November 1975. His legacy is associated with the building of the Angolan State, the promotion of education, health, and culture, and the strengthening of Angola's standing in Africa and internationally. Ant³nio Agostinho Neto died in Moscow on 10 September 1979.
