Sumbe: Minister of State and Head of the Civil Affairs Office of the President of the Republic, Dionsio Manuel da Fonseca, on Thursday, emphasized the economic potential of Cuanza-Sul Province in diversifying the economy and enhancing the country's food security. Speaking at the central ceremony marking National Heroes' Day, he identified fertile land, water resources, strategic location, coastline, and the entrepreneurial spirit of the population as key assets of the province.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the Government official, representing President Joo Louren§o, stated that the Executive has been bolstering these assets through significant projects across various sectors. The infrastructure initiatives include the Sumbe wastewater treatment system, rehabilitation of multiple bridges, rural electrification in Quibala, and the construction of the Quibala Centrality.
He further elaborated on developments such as the Cuanza-Sul General Hospital Raul Daz Arguelles, Sumbe ring road, social housing projects, and several grid-extension electrification efforts. The rehabilitation of the Caw¡ Irrigated Perimeter and the construction of a fishing port and fish market in Porto-Amboim were also highlighted as part of the Commercial Agriculture Development Programme.
Education was underscored with the inauguration of the Cuanza-Sul Polytechnic Higher Institute, marking an important milestone. The Minister stressed the importance of investing in skilled personnel and knowledge production, connecting education with the legacy of Ant³nio Agostinho Neto and advocating for stronger ties between education, research, and the productive sector.
The agricultural sector was placed at the forefront of the economic diversification agenda during the National Heroes' Day celebrations. The Minister noted significant growth in the sector and emphasized the role of family farmers. He pointed out the Kwenda Programme's impact in Cuanza-Sul, where cash transfers have aided citizens in agricultural ventures.
Cuanza-Sul Governor Eug©nio C©sar Laborinho highlighted over 462,000 hectares of arable land and addressed the recent decline in agricultural production due to drought. He stressed the importance of irrigation projects, such as the Caw¡ irrigation canal, to enhance production capacity.
In fisheries and aquaculture, the governor noted Cuanza-Sul's leading position in controlled aquaculture production and emphasized the sector's potential to boost employment and national food security. He also mentioned the completion of the Alto Chingo substation, a key electricity distribution point, which enhances electrification in the province.
The provincial governor expressed gratitude for investments in road infrastructure, including the Sumbe ring road and the rehabilitation of major roads, which are expected to improve urban mobility and accommodate future growth. The National Heroes' Day ceremony in Sumbe paid tribute to Ant³nio Agostinho Neto, honoring his legacy as a National Hero and Founder of the Nation.
