Minister of State Highlights Policies to Improve Families’ Lives

Cuito: The Minister of State for Economic Coordination, José de Lima Massano, assured that the Angolan government is committed to strengthening policies and instruments aimed at supporting productive investment and entrepreneurship. This announcement was made during the opening of Expo-Bié2025, which is taking place in the city of Cuito and will continue until Saturday. According to Angola Press News Agency, Massano emphasized that the government's support is primarily directed toward cooperatives and small family businesses. The initiatives are focused on enhancing the performance of community banks, rural schools, and the restoration or expansion of irrigation channels, along with light agricultural mechanization. Massano highlighted that these actions are transforming many of Angola's productive regions. He pointed out the support being provided by the Credit Guarantee Fund (FGC) to enable small and medium-sized enterprises to access credit on more favorable terms. He also praised the World Bank's contri bution, which recently bolstered the FGC with an additional 40 billion Kwanzas, aimed at projects linked to logistics and production chains structured along the Lobito Corridor. The minister noted that this financial instrument is complemented by the Agricultural Development Support Fund (FADA), which supports agricultural and livestock production projects through its new credit line. The government aims to establish small industries near production areas to process, preserve, and package products locally, thereby creating more value, opportunities, and jobs for families. Massano also discussed the Institute for Support to Small and Medium Enterprises (INAPEM) and its new Training Program for Cooperatives and Small Producers, with backing from the National Employment Fund of Angola (FUNEA). Investments in communication technologies in rural areas are also underway, facilitating access to information and enabling citizens to benefit from new agricultural techniques and practices. He expressed satisfaction w ith the growth in food production, underscoring the need to continue investing in the productive sector. 'We must continue to put our collective energy into developing productive capacities, exploiting our potential and transforming it into economic and social well-being,' Massano stated. The minister also highlighted that Expo-Bié is occurring in a significant year for Angola, as the nation celebrates 50 years of independence. He described it as a moment for pride, celebration, reflection, and interaction for more sustainable, integrated, and inclusive economic development. Following his opening speech, José de Lima Massano, accompanied by the Governor of Bié, Celeste Adolfo, and other dignitaries, explored the various stands at the event. Governor Celeste Adolfo emphasized Expo-Bié's objectives of presenting the province's economic, social, tourist, and cultural potential, promoting local production, attracting investment, and contributing to economic diversification and food security. Expo-Bié 2025 span s approximately 26,700 square meters, featuring over 435 exhibitors and has generated more than 1,038 temporary jobs. The event showcases more than 3,000 tons of products, agricultural mechanization equipment, and a children's playground, attracting numerous visitors. Expo-Bié, now in its second edition, operates under the theme '50 Years of Independence, Produce, Transform, and Develop Angola.'