A contract was signed to enhance Angola Telecom's transmission and access network in rural and urban areas, involving a $188 million investment. The project, supported by the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication and a consortium of Gemcorp Commodities Global DMCC and Geoglobal Consulting Corp, aims to rehabilitate and expand rural and metropolitan networks. It seeks to improve national and international connectivity, enhance service efficiency, and benefit three million people in underserved areas. The consortium is committed to timely and professional project execution.

Around 30 activists from Cazenga and Kilamba Kiaxi participated in an eight-hour seminar on the Public Policy Cycle and Good Transparency Practices, held at Mediateca 28 de Agosto in Luanda. The seminar, organized by ADRA, aimed to promote participatory governance and transparency in public finance management. National Coordinator Leonarda Inguila highlighted the importance of public policy and transparency for a democratic state. Trainer Gonçalo Texeira emphasized the role of citizen education in monitoring public policies. The project, funded by the German organization Pão para o Mundo, is being implemented in 11 municipalities across several provinces and aims to benefit over 4,800 individuals.

Russian authorities announced the completion of the restoration works on the Crimea bridge, which was severely damaged by an explosion in October 2022. The bridge, a crucial infrastructure linking Crimea to Russia, has resumed traffic ahead of schedule. Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the explosion, labeling it a terrorist act, which led to subsequent missile attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and in need of aid. The international community has largely condemned the invasion, responding with military support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.

José Agostinho Neto, the younger brother of Angola's founding President António Agostinho Neto, passed away in Lisbon at the age of 85 due to illness. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Angola expressed deep sadness and condolences to the family. José Agostinho Neto was a prominent diplomat, serving as ambassador to the Republics of Congo, Tanzania, and Botswana, and was also involved with the MPLA, Banco de Poupança e Crédito, and the Fundação António Agostinho Neto.

Due to system access failures during yesterday's psychotechnical exam for the AGT public contest, a new schedule has been issued for today. Candidates for the Informatics specialty will take their exam at 10 AM, those for image control and processing at 11 AM, and customs and fiscal specialty candidates at 1 PM. Unlike yesterday's 40-minute duration, today's exams will last one hour.

41 families from Lote 1 in Prenda, Luanda, await official information on new accommodation after being evacuated due to building collapse risk. The five-story building, over 50 years old, was evacuated following structural vibrations. Preliminary studies indicate four critical pillars needing urgent intervention. Construction companies are reinforcing the pillars to determine if the building can be re-inhabited or demolished. Residents are temporarily staying with relatives and friends, unable to retrieve belongings secured by the National Police. This is the second evacuation of colonial-era buildings in Luanda this year.

The Hospital Central do Lubango in Huíla province will open two new intermediate care wings for acute stroke and cranioencephalic trauma patients within two months to alleviate pressure on intensive care. The hospital currently has a 17-bed intensive care unit, all occupied, prompting the need for additional facilities. Director Maria Lina Antunes revealed that this initiative is part of the hospital's strategic plan, which includes implementing new technologies. The hospital also plans to expand its physiotherapy services and prepare a chemotherapy room to better treat cancer patients. With a capacity of 418 beds and 21 specialties, the hospital is the largest in southern Angola.

Petro de Luanda narrowly defeated Al Ahly 91-90 in the Nile Conference at the Hassan Moustafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo. The game was part of the preliminary phase of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). Carlos Morais led the team with 34 points, and Gerson Lukeny secured the win with a last-second basket. Petro de Luanda now leads the standings with 10 points, while Al Ahly is in second place with seven points. The BAL playoffs will take place from October 21 to 28 in Kigali, Rwanda, where Petro de Luanda will face the Abidjan Basketball Club Fighters from Côte d'Ivoire.

The Zona Económica Especial Luanda Bengo (ZEE) and the Associação de Jovens Empresários de Portugal – China (AJEPC) have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in attracting Portuguese-speaking entrepreneurs to invest in Angola. The agreement aims to create synergies and share experiences to support business ventures and knowledge transfer. The ZEE aims to boost Angola's economy by fostering national production, attracting private investments, creating jobs, and contributing to economic diversification. The FIN Business Fórum Angola, part of a larger project by AJEPC, seeks to establish a continuous network linking continents through Lusophone connections.

North Korea has completed the development of its first military spy satellite, as announced by President Kim Jong-un. During a visit to the North Korean Aerospace Agency, Kim emphasized the importance of space-based surveillance systems to counter security threats led by the US. The announcement follows recent missile tests, including an intercontinental ballistic missile, which North Korea claims are responses to joint military exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin stated that the Russian economy is performing better than expected despite Western sanctions. He acknowledged that while no one is overly optimistic, the situation is not as dire as anticipated. Pankin also suggested that Western perceptions of Russia might be overly negative. Since the invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, multiple countries have condemned Russia's actions and imposed political and economic sanctions.

Total Energies EP Angola is concerned about artisanal fishing boats operating near its oil platforms along the coast of Zaire province, Angola. The company held a meeting with local fishing communities to discuss safety and engagement plans. The provincial agriculture, livestock, and fisheries office highlighted the legal boundaries for oil exploration and the risks posed by fishing activities. Local fishermen refuted the accusations, blaming boats from neighboring regions. The meeting aimed to foster trust and gather socio-economic data to understand the impact on fishing communities.

Multicaixa processes 120 million financial transactions monthly, amounting to 1.9 billion kwanzas, with a projected 20% increase in transactions this year. EMIS Executive Administrator Joaquim Caniço highlighted the company's growth since its establishment in 2002, noting the challenges faced during Angola's post-conflict period.

Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, warned of an imminent new world war due to rising nuclear tensions and climate change concerns. He highlighted Europe's struggles with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and criticized Western sanctions. President Vladimir Putin reiterated Russia's stance to defend its national interests against Western opposition, emphasizing a perceived existential threat from the West.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the creation of new marine brigades equipped with modern weapons to strengthen the country's defense. He emphasized that international trips and negotiations are crucial for enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities. Zelensky's visit to the frontline in Donetsk highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine's defense amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, which has annexed several Ukrainian regions. The UN reports that the war has caused a significant refugee crisis, the worst in Europe since World War II.

Minister João Baptista Borges has urged EPAL and PRODEL to work diligently to stabilize water and energy production in Luanda and ensure the continuous operation of electrical infrastructure in Angola. He emphasized the implementation of a professional qualifier and addressing social security issues for EPAL employees. EPAL's new president, Adão Manuel da Silva, plans to organize the company and improve working conditions, including a pilot project for prepaid water meters. PRODEL's president, Pedro Afonso, highlighted the need for employee engagement to overcome challenges. Several new executives were appointed to both organizations.

The Angolan government, led by Minister Teresa Rodrigues Dias, prioritizes combating child labor, aligning with International Labour Organization conventions. Efforts include legislative measures, financial structures for nationwide training, and a multisectoral commission. The government collaborates with various bodies, including the National Institute for Children and the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women, to address critical areas. Despite societal paradoxes, the General Labor Inspection and Criminal Investigation Service work diligently to combat forced labor.

Benjamim Sassova, an Angolan naturopath, asserts that the consumption of processed foods is a primary cause of hypertension. Speaking at a workshop in Madrid organized by Bircham International University, Sassova emphasized the importance of healthy habits and routine check-ups to prevent severe health issues like stroke and heart attack. He also highlighted the skepticism of conventional medicine towards the findings of natural medicine. Sassova, who holds degrees in naturopathy and natural health sciences, is also an author of several books on natural medicine.

Spain's exports to Angola in 2022 amounted to 260 million euros, while Angola's exports to Spain, primarily oil and gas, were valued at 1.62 billion euros. Spanish Ambassador to Angola, Manuel Lejarreta, highlighted the potential for increased economic cooperation between the two nations at the 1st Angola-Spain Business Forum. Despite the pandemic's impact on trade, there are positive signs of economic recovery in both countries. Key sectors for Spanish investment in Angola include infrastructure, energy, and consultancy. The forum aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities.

Petro de Luanda reclaimed the top position in the Girabola league after defeating Académica do Lobito 2-1 in the 26th round at Estádio 22 de Junho. Goals were scored by Jeredi and Gilberto, with an assist from Pedro Pinto. 1° de Agosto is now in second place with 57 points, followed by Sagrada Esperança with 49 points. The bottom three teams are Isaac de Benguela, Dragão, and Cuando Cubango FC.

The non-oil sector in Angola is projected to grow significantly by 2050, with the non-oil GDP expected to increase from USD 84 billion to USD 275 billion. The strategic plan 'Angola 2050' aims to enhance non-oil exports, increase non-oil fiscal revenue, and reduce public debt. Key goals include improving life expectancy, reducing child mortality, and lowering unemployment. The strategy is built on five pillars: human capital development, infrastructure, economic diversification, sustainable ecosystem promotion, and ensuring equality of opportunities.

The 2019-2022 Privatization Program in Angola generated a total contractual value of KZ 953.9 billion, with KZ 568.7 billion already received from the privatization of 92 assets and companies. The program aimed to resize the public business sector, reduce state intervention in the economy, and boost the private sector's role in national economic development. Key challenges included global contingencies like COVID-19 and war, macroeconomic conditions, and investor financing access. The program's first phase included 178 assets, with 92 privatized, creating 2710 jobs, particularly in the agro-industrial sector.

Minister Ana Paula do Sacramento Neto advocated for better monitoring in the execution of Angola's poverty alleviation program to improve the quality of life for populations. During a visit to assess the Integrated Program for Local Development and Poverty Alleviation in Bengo province, she noted positive indicators but also identified areas needing correction. The government invests 28 million Kwanzas in each of the 164 municipalities for the program, including school meals, totaling four billion Kwanzas. Provincial Governor Maria Antónia Nelumba acknowledged the need for corrections to effectively carry out the program's actions. Training for municipal administrators aims to enhance performance in serving the population, which is primarily engaged in agriculture, artisanal fishing, and hunting.

The Caculo-Cabaça Hydroelectric Project in Cuanza Norte, Angola, aims to supply electricity to Southern African countries through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) upon its completion in 2028. The project, presented by the Ministry of Energy and Waters and witnessed by President João Lourenço, will be one of Africa's largest hydroelectric plants. The construction, which began in August 2017, is financed by the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the Government of Germany. The SAPP facilitates cooperation among Southern African electricity companies, promoting regional energy market interaction and regulatory harmonization.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that India will do everything possible to find a solution to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The two leaders met in Hiroshima on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Modi expressed support for dialogue and diplomacy and pledged continued humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Zelensky thanked India for its support of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty and invited India to participate in implementing Kiev's peace plan. The plan demands the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014. The international community largely does not recognize Moscow's sovereignty over the annexed Ukrainian regions. Zelensky's G7 appearance followed approval from Washington for allies to supply Ukraine with American-made F-16 fighters.

ENSA Seguros de Angola reported a total of 94.4 billion Kwanzas in issued premiums for the 2022 fiscal year, maintaining a market leadership with a 33% share. The company's solvency margin stood at 198%, significantly above the regulated minimum, marking a 38 percentage point increase from 2021. The number of active policies grew by 21% compared to the previous year. There was also growth in various insurance sectors, with civil liability insurance increasing by 198%. Claims costs were around 33 billion Kwanzas, resulting in a claims ratio of 35%, a 5% decrease from 2021. The direct insurance technical result grew by 3% from the previous year, amounting to approximately 9.6 billion Kwanzas.

Luanda will host the annual General Assembly and the Lusophone Communications Forum organized by the Associação Internacional das Comunicações de Expressão Portuguesa (AICEP) on May 15-16, 2023. The event will gather leaders and executives from communication operators and regulatory bodies from Lusophone countries to discuss digital transformation, cyber security, and the socio-economic impacts of technological advancements. The forum aims to address challenges in digital infrastructure and security, emphasizing the importance of connecting everyone with quality and speed to foster economic and social development.

The Girls' Shelter Meninas Anuarite in Luanda has inaugurated a new 'Reading Corner' following recent renovations funded by ZAP as part of its social responsibility program, ZAP Vidas. The project included wall painting, floor restoration, and plumbing system upgrades. Various materials such as mattresses, clothing, footwear, hygiene products, and home appliances were donated. ZAP collaborated with Tis Tech Angola, Método TIS, and Clube Nomada by Hildérico Coutinho, which donated around 63 school books. The VPA organization also supported the project by selecting and cataloging books. The event featured participation from children of the Rede Dom Bosco in Catholic training activities. The shelter, inspired by the life of Blessed Marie-Clémentine Anuarite Nengapeta, currently impacts over 4,000 children across Angola.

Manuel Francisco Pedro, President of the Board of Directors of the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone, participated in the 12th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) in Abu Dhabi. The event, held from May 8 to 10, 2023, is one of the largest annual investment gatherings, focusing on the future of the global economic landscape and foreign direct investment. Pedro highlighted Angola's challenges and strategies for economic diversification, emphasizing the strategic importance and resources of the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that Russia will be defeated similarly to how Nazism was defeated in 1945. In a speech commemorating the end of World War II, Zelensky promised to liberate territories occupied by Russia and emphasized Ukraine's contribution to the victory over Nazism. He announced plans to align Ukraine's Victory Day with European countries on May 8. The speech highlighted ongoing preparations for a major offensive to reclaim occupied territories, including Crimea, amid intensified drone attacks.

Three students from the Escola Técnica de Formação de Pescas (Cefopescas) drowned during a practical swimming lesson on Friday in the Ramiros district, Belas municipality, Luanda. One female student was initially rescued alive but later succumbed to her injuries, while the bodies of the two other students were recovered on Saturday. The incident was attributed to the school's negligence for not having a security system in place during sea practice sessions. Despite the presence of the National Police and Firefighters within the school, they were not informed of the practical classes, leading to the tragedy. Cefopescas, inaugurated in 2020, currently has over 300 boarding students and around a thousand day students.

President Joe Biden has urged Congress to ban assault rifles following a mass shooting at a Texas mall that left eight dead. Biden emphasized the need for legislation to prohibit assault weapons, enforce background checks, and ensure safe storage of firearms. He criticized Republican members of Congress for their inaction on gun control. The incident, which occurred in a Dallas-area mall, involved a shooter who was eventually killed by police. The United States has experienced at least 198 mass shootings this year, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence.

A landslide in the locality of Diboko, approximately 120 kilometers from Tshikapa, the capital of Kasaï province, killed six illegal miners. The victims were clandestine diggers who entered a mining area that was forbidden for exploitation. Despite security reasons for the ban, diggers continue to enter the site at night, seeking diamonds.

The Angolan Ministry of Health, through the State Secretary for Public Health Carlos Alberto Pinto de Sousa, emphasized the importance of continuing Covid-19 vaccination efforts despite the pandemic no longer being considered a global emergency. The country aims to increase its vaccination coverage from 47% to the 85% recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Ministry plans to integrate Covid-19 vaccines into routine vaccinations for the population over 12 years old and strengthen epidemiological surveillance. WHO representative in Angola, Djamila Cabral, noted the decrease in deaths and hospitalizations as criteria for the pandemic's end, while cautioning that the threat remains.

Over 500 buildings across Angola are in poor condition, with 139 in critical condition requiring demolition for new construction, as stated by Minister Carlos Alberto dos Santos in Saurimo. The Ministry of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing has recorded 509 buildings with unsuitable living conditions. A technical survey categorized the buildings into three levels, with the 139 buildings posing structural risks. The strategic program approved by the Council of Ministers includes initial relocation of affected families followed by demolition. New buildings with similar characteristics are planned to replace the demolished ones.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva agreed that the Russian invasion of Ukraine is 'unacceptable' and the death of innocent civilians is deplorable. Sunak emphasized the need for international pressure on President Putin to withdraw Russian troops. Unlike many Western countries, Brazil has not imposed financial sanctions on Russia or supplied ammunition to Kyiv, positioning itself as a mediator. Lula da Silva has criticized the US and EU for their stance on the invasion, advocating for a peaceful resolution.

The Angolan government, through the Ministry of Health, has decided to maintain the requirement for presenting a Covid-19 vaccination certificate for entry and exit from the country, despite the World Health Organization declaring the end of the pandemic. This measure is justified by the need to control the risk of possible contagion. For those without the certificate, a negative test result is required. The decision follows WHO's cautionary advice, as stated by the Secretary of State for Public Health, Carlos Pinto de Sousa.

A mass shooting occurred at the Allen Premium Outlets in Dallas, Texas, resulting in at least eight deaths and several injuries. The shooter, who acted alone, was killed by police. Authorities, including the Allen Police Department and the White House, are closely monitoring the situation. This incident marks the 199th mass shooting in the U.S. this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. A vigil for the victims is scheduled at the Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church in Allen.

The Banco Nacional de Angola (BNA) is set to host the 56th meeting of the Committee of Central Bank Governors (CCBG) of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) from May 10 to 12. The meeting will focus on analyzing the financial system of the SADC region, emphasizing payment systems, banking regulation and supervision, compensation and settlement. Discussions will also cover the repatriation of banknotes and coins, the impact of exchange controls on cross-border flows of goods, services, and capital, and the exchange in capacity building. The initiative aims to create a database of monetary and financial statistics and an information bank on the structures and policies of central banks and financial markets in SADC countries. The CCBG, established in 1995, is dedicated to promoting close cooperation among Southern African Central Banks to enhance economic and financial development and stability.

Manuel Francisco Pedro, President of the Board of Directors of ZEE Luanda-Bengo, participated in the 9th Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the World Free Zones Organization (AICE 2023) in Dubai. The event, held at DAFZ Square Business Center, featured advanced seminars on economic zone leadership and presentations on various topics including leadership trust and stakeholder engagement. Pedro presented the opportunities and potential of ZEE Luanda-Bengo. The conference concluded on May 3, 2023.

Manuel Francisco Pedro, President of the Board of Directors of the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone, was elected as a member of the World Free Zones Organization Council during the 9th World Free Zones Conference held in Dubai from May 1-3, 2023. The event, themed 'An Ecosystem of Trust Driving Prosperity,' brought together political speakers, industry leaders, investors, and experts to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the global free zones industry. Pedro's election underscores the role of the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone in economic diversification.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the fundamental importance of press freedom for democracy and justice in his message for World Press Freedom Day. He highlighted the increasing threats to press freedom worldwide, including misinformation, hate speech, and the concentration of media ownership. Guterres called for an end to attacks on journalists and the protection of their rights, noting the significant rise in violence against media workers.

The IMF is conducting its first post-financing program assessment meeting at the Ministry of Finance in Luanda, Angola. The meeting includes representatives from various Angolan government institutions and state-owned enterprises, as well as private entities such as BPC and Económico banks. The IMF mission is led by Amadou Sy.

The Executive, represented by Luísa Grilo, emphasized the importance of valuing teachers as a central concern during the opening of the I Consultative Council in Luau, Moxico province. Key challenges include improving educational infrastructure, reducing the student-teacher ratio, and enhancing the quality of learning. The event also aims to address violence in schools and promote a peaceful and supportive educational environment. Governor Ernesto Muangala called for increased investment in technical schools in the region. Over two days, participants will discuss various topics, including the national school calendar and early childhood education programs.

The Instituto Regulador de Derivados de Petróleo (IRDP) clarified that recent reports about a potential increase in fuel prices in the country are unfounded. In a note dated May 2, the IRDP expressed concern over the misinformation, stating that neither the IRDP nor Sonangol, the public company involved in petroleum products, have the authority to set fuel prices. The IRDP emphasized that any claims about changes in current fuel prices are baseless and could mislead the public.

Luanda will host the 1st Forum on Management, Strategy, and Technology (GESTRATECH) on April 28, featuring 25 international speakers from Mozambique, Portugal, and Brazil. The forum aims to discuss best practices in business management, strategy, and technology, with a focus on sustainable growth and the concept of 'Society 5.0'. Key participants include companies like NCR, Digital Factory, Olinai Bufft, and Ligue Imóvel. The event is organized by Mukonda and will be opened by the Minister of Economy and Planning, Mário Augusto Caetano João. The forum seeks to connect professionals and companies to foster innovation and improve business practices in Angola.

Angolan teachers in the general education sector will receive an additional 12.5% on their base salary with the approval of a new subsidy table for education sector agents. The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Luísa Grilo, after the 4th session of the Council of Ministers. The government will invest 49.455 billion kwanzas annually for the 'Attendance Bonus,' which is permanent and adds to other existing benefits. The bonus aims to promote professional performance and increase teachers' financial income. Teachers may see their May salaries increased with the bonus, including retroactive payments from March 1st. The bonus also includes a subsidy for teachers working in remote areas of the country, although the percentage for this has not yet been calculated.

The new Luanda International Airport, Dr. António Agostinho Neto, underwent its first provisional inspection by the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) from April 25 to 27. This inspection is part of the initial phase of the airport's certification process, aimed at evaluating the infrastructure and equipment to ensure compliance with ANAC's regulatory requirements for safe operation. The inspection covered various airport components, including runways, taxiways, passenger terminals, and air navigation facilities. The certification process, mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization, involves five phases to ensure the highest safety standards for international airports.

Forty percent of the sugar consumed in the national market is produced by Biocom in Malanje, as revealed by its Director of Institutional Relations, Luís Adriano Félix Júnior. The company aims to reach peak production levels by 2028, targeting over 250,000 tons annually. The strategy includes a gradual 10% increase in planting areas, currently at 30,000 hectares. The Secretary of State for Agriculture, João Cunha, highlighted the significance of Biocom's production increase for the country, contributing to the government's plan to reduce agricultural imports and potentially export in the future.

The Council of Ministers of Angola has approved the country's accession to the Solemn Declaration on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), aiming to liberalize access to the African air transport market. This initiative, led by President João Lourenço, is expected to bring numerous benefits, including new routes, more frequent flights, better connections, and lower prices, thereby enhancing regional integration and positioning Angola as a regional hub. The SAATM, launched in January 2018 under the African Union's Agenda 2063, represents a significant step towards the full liberalization of the continent's air transport market. The Angolan government is preparing a roadmap for implementing this initiative, which includes public awareness activities, regulatory adjustments, infrastructure planning, and improving aviation safety and security.

Angola's economy grew by 3.5 percent in 2022, primarily driven by the non-oil sector, which has been leading growth in recent years. The Minister of State for Economic Coordination, Manuel Nunes Júnior, conveyed this information during the opening of the 'Angola Economic Outlook' forum in Luanda. He emphasized the country's ongoing trend of reducing oil dependency and assured efforts towards diversifying production and increasing the domestic supply of goods.

The first edition of the Angola Economic Outlook 2023 conference, held on April 26 in Luanda, will analyze the impact of macroeconomic reforms initiated in 2018. The event, themed 'From Economic Recovery to Sustainable Development,' is organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning and the magazine Economia & Mercado. It will feature discussions on the gains from these reforms, such as positive fiscal balances and reduced public debt, and will address current challenges and strategies for continued economic recovery. Key participants include government officials, international financial representatives, and economic experts.

The deadline for the Programa de Identificação e Desenvolvimento de Talento (PIDT) to identify 50 young Angolans is May 1. The Associação para a Promoção, Desenvolvimento, Prosperidade e Tecnologia (PDPT) aims to develop entrepreneurial skills in selected youths through a six-month program offering scholarships in Angola and the United States. The program targets dynamic, committed, proactive, and resilient individuals aged 14-25 who are either in or have completed secondary or university education and are currently unemployed. The training will cover entrepreneurship and information and communication technologies.

Agriculture and Forests Minister Francisco de Assis pledged to enhance the agricultural productive sector of the country's prisons with technical means during a visit to the Cavaco penitentiary in Benguela. The penitentiary has launched a poultry farming program in partnership with the Ministries of the Interior and Agriculture, resulting in significant growth from 500 chicks to over six thousand chickens. Assis promised to deliver an additional incubator and support irrigation capacity expansion for corn and soy production. The ministry will also assist charity institutions' agricultural fields and provide training for young people. The General Director of Prison Services, Bernardo Pereira Gourgel, highlighted the selection of three prisons for the project due to their technical production capabilities, aiming to improve inmates' diets.

Russia has condemned the United States for denying visas to Russian journalists accompanying Foreign Minister Serguei Lavrov to the United Nations, calling the decision cowardly. Lavrov and other Russian officials criticized the US for hypocrisy regarding freedom of expression. The visit to the UN will focus on issues like the grain deal and multilateralism amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russia, currently holding the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council, faces international scrutiny, including an ICC arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin.

Kenyan authorities have discovered 21 bodies of members of a religious sect who died after a prolonged fasting period, allegedly to meet Jesus Christ in heaven. The bodies were found in Shakahola forest in Malindi, Kilifi County. Among the deceased were children buried alongside their parents or relatives. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) suspects the victims were followers of the International Church of Good News, led by Pastor Paul Mackenzie Nthenge, who is currently in custody. Nthenge is accused of encouraging his followers to fast to death to ascend to heaven.

On Saturday afternoon, the Luanda Provincial Government evacuated residents of building No. 1 in the Prenda neighborhood due to an imminent risk of collapse. This action follows a similar incident on March 18, when another residential building on Comandante Valódia Avenue was evacuated before collapsing the next day without resulting in any fatalities.

The National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) of Angola is recruiting new inspectors to ensure the quality standards of operational safety services in national civil aviation. ANAC offers specific training for inspectors according to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements, social benefits, competitive remuneration, and opportunities for personal and professional development. Candidates must meet minimum requirements such as completing high school (12th grade), holding an Airline Transport Pilot License, having a minimum of 5,000 flight hours, and at least five years of experience as a Commander in an aircraft over 27,000 kg with a recognized airline. Proficiency in English and availability for full-time work and travel are also required. Applications with updated supporting documents must be sent by email by April 30, 2023.

Grupo Carrinho was honored as the organization that most supports communities at the Forbes Social Responsibility Awards, hosted by Forbes África Lusófona in Luanda. The awards recognized ten companies in various categories for their social responsibility efforts. Banco Millennium Atlântico won in the Financial Sector, Unitel in Telecommunications, Refriango in Trade and Industry, and Omatapalo in Engineering and Construction. The jury was chaired by João Traça, with notable members including Adjany Costa and Josina Z. Machel. The event, co-hosted with Media Nova, aimed to encourage major brands to continue their social missions.

The Portuguese Embassy in Angola and the Camões – Portuguese Cultural Center are marking the start of the 50th anniversary celebrations of April 25 with a poetic performance by poet Alice Neto de Sousa. The event will take place on April 25 at the Pepetela Auditorium of the Camões – Portuguese Cultural Center. Alice Neto de Sousa, a 30-year-old poet with Portuguese roots and Angolan heritage, gained social media attention in early 2022 with her poem 'Poeta.' She will also participate in a public meeting on April 26 to discuss her life and work.

Fifty-four people died and over 450 were injured in Angola due to recent heavy rains, as reported by Francisco Furtado, the Minister of State and Head of the Military House of the President of the Republic. The numbers are preliminary, with incalculable consequences. The rains have affected around 44,000 people and damaged over 4,380 residences in Luanda. The government attributes the disaster to economic and social vulnerabilities, high exposure to risk, disorganized land occupation, urban infrastructure deficiencies, and non-compliance with housing construction codes. Measures to mitigate the situation are being discussed, and a contingency plan is being prepared to support the victims with materials, clothing, food, and health assistance.

The United Nations office in Luanda has responded to UNITA's request for assistance regarding the case of Man Gena, an Angolan citizen who fled to Mozambique due to alleged threats to his life and family. The UN has shared the case with the Regional Office for Southern Africa of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and indicated that it can be presented to the Human Rights Council's Special Procedures system. Man Gena's case involves accusations against high-ranking officials in Angola's National Police and Criminal Investigation Service for alleged drug trafficking. The UN is open to providing support and guidance to UNITA for submitting information on the case.

Banco Millennium Atlântico issued a clarification stating that the sanction imposed by the Banco Nacional de Angola is not related to any violations of money laundering prevention standards. The bank emphasizes its commitment to best practices in this area, highlighting its continuous investment in technical and human resources and its recent FATCA certification. The sanction was based on the bank's treatment of a specific client's complaint regarding the restructuring of a car leasing credit, which was successfully resolved. Banco Millennium Atlântico reaffirms its dedication to service excellence and continuous improvement, valuing customer complaints and regulatory recommendations to strengthen Angola's financial system. This follows a report by the BNA that fined 22 financial institutions for non-compliance with Angolan Central Bank regulations in the first quarter of 2023.

Wassamba Neto, Deputy Director General of the National Institute for Consumer Defense (INADEC), discusses various projects awaiting budget approval and the goal of better informing Angolan consumers to prevent deception by service providers. Key objectives for 2023 include the approval of a new organic statute to guide INADEC's actions. Neto highlights challenges such as banks not using complaint books despite national bank directives, and emphasizes the importance of consumer education and legal instruments to protect consumer rights. INADEC faces operational difficulties due to budget constraints and aims to improve consumer satisfaction through policy creation, a national consumption system, and an advertising observatory.

Wassamba Neto, Deputy Director General of the National Institute for Consumer Defense (INADEC), discusses various projects awaiting budget approval and the goal of better informing Angolan consumers to prevent deception by service providers. Key objectives for 2023 include the approval of a new organic statute to guide INADEC's actions. Neto highlights challenges such as banks not using complaint books despite national bank directives, and emphasizes the importance of consumer education and legal instruments to protect consumer rights. INADEC faces operational difficulties due to budget constraints and aims to improve consumer satisfaction through policy creation, a national consumption system, and an advertising observatory.

The Angolan government forecasts a 3.6 percent growth in the national GDP for 2023, driven primarily by the positive performance of oil prices in international markets. Minister of Economy and Planning, Mário Caetano João, highlighted that the oil sector is expected to grow by 1 percent annually over the next five years, while the non-oil sector is projected to grow by 4.6 percent. However, he also noted potential negative impacts from reduced oil production and limited fiscal stimulus, which may result in economic growth slightly below the projected population growth rate of 3.1 percent.

The Association of Former FAPLAS Combatants (ASCOFA) has introduced a plan to form a cooperative aimed at reintegrating its members into the workforce through a cleaning campaign in major cities of Angola. The initiative, announced by ASCOFA president Caetano Marcolino, will employ 200 men to start cleaning Luanda on the following Monday. The cooperative will provide remuneration, food, and equipment such as shovels, wheelbarrows, and tricycles for waste collection and transport. The ex-soldiers will also maintain public gardens and ensure their preservation. The Provincial Government of Luanda, represented by Francisco Naval, has praised the initiative and confirmed the provision of necessary equipment for the project.