The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a $5 million investment in projects benefiting women along the Lobito Corridor, aiming to uplift communities and combat poverty.
Samantha Power, the administrator of USAID, visited Benguela and Lobito to underscore the impact of ongoing programs in the region, particularly in agriculture, which are expected to alleviate hunger and poverty for thousands of people.
She highlighted the expansion of the Women in Angolan Agriculture (WAF) project, spanning Benguela, Huambo, and Bié provinces, as a significant initiative.
Power emphasized the importance of empowering farmers with training in agricultural techniques to boost productivity and achieve development goals.
She stressed the need for farmers to have essential documents like Identity Cards and basic financial literacy skills, as well as access to markets to sell their produce.
Power commended the Angolan government’s efforts, including financial allocations and partnerships with organizations like the Agrarian Sector Development Fund, to support family farmers and expand access to credit, estimating a 6% increase in agricultural production over the next three years.
USAID, in collaboration with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), is launching an Agricultural Technical Institute to train farmers, particularly women, to enhance their skills and productivity.
Francisco de Assis, the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, commended USAID’s financial support, emphasizing its significant contribution to the country’s agricultural sector development.
Minister de Assis highlighted the role of education in combating illiteracy, noting that families now recognize its importance for their children’s future. He lauded USAID’s investments, citing tangible positive outcomes already evident in the region.
