Luanda: President Joo Louren§o praised on Thursday the experience and knowledge of the newly appointed Minister of Defense, Former Combatants and Veterans of the Homeland, and the Governor of Cuando, as it will ensure their effective performance in their roles. The statement was made during the swearing-in ceremony of Lºcio do Amaral and Carla Maria Domingas Cativa, where the President emphasized the Minister of National Defense's familiarity with the institution and the governor's understanding of local realities, including the primary languages spoken in the region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, these attributes present initial advantages for the officials, aiding their integration into new functions and enabling efficient performance. President Louren§o expressed confidence in the success of both appointees and reiterated the Executive's commitment to providing necessary support. He assured that the government will remain in the 'background' to offer institutional backing, allowing the officials to perform their duties with diligence and efficiency.
The appointments were made by presidential decrees as part of adjustments to the government structure. Lºcio Gon§alves Amaral has a long-standing career in the Angolan Armed Forces and public administration. Born in Huambo in 1956, Amaral's academic journey coincided with significant social and political changes in Angola. His professional path gained prominence with his entry into the Angolan Armed Forces, where he achieved the rank of colonel. He has served in various roles, including commander of the Army from 2011 to 2017, Secretary of State for Social Action, and Secretary of State for the Protection of Strategic Objectives.
Carla Cativa, born in 1975, currently serves as a member of the National Assembly and the Secretary for Organization and Mobilization of the Angolan Women's Organization (OMA). Her career includes roles such as vice-governor of Cuando Cubango for the social area, municipal administrator of Cuangar, and first municipal secretary of the MPLA in Cuangar. She has also been the second secretary of the MPLA Provincial Committee of Cuando Cubango and provincial director of Culture. Cativa is proficient in Portuguese, Nganguela, Umbundu, and English.
