Luena – The Angolan minister of National Defence, Former Combatants and Veterans, João Ernesto dos Santos “Liberdade”, on Friday recommended the military to engage in the consolidation process of the organizational and functional structure of the Forces Angolan Armed Forces (FAA).
Speaking at introduction ceremony of the new Chief of Staff of the FAA, Altino Carlos José dos Santos, to the Eastern Military Region, in Luena, Moxico province, the Minister said that the engagement of the troops will lead to the success of the ongoing process of restructuring, resizing and re-equipment of the military structure.
On the occasion, Altino dos Santos reaffirmed that the FAA will continue to safeguard the three fundamental axes, namely, the country's defence, support to the national and local government as well as the military diplomacy, with a view to participating in different peace operations around the world.
The Chief of the General Staff acknowledged the troop resilience to overcome the existing difficulties and in fulfilling their mission despite of some difficulties they face.
Altino dos Santos understands that the Ministry of National Defense will continue to work to overcome the elementary and basic difficulties faced by the troops, including infrastructure improvements.
The Chief of the General Staff stated that he will improve the quality of food for the troops, as well as require the military units to have their own capacity for self-sustenance, through local agricultural programs (creation of crops and animals), which can be inserted within the combat preparedness plans.
He highlighted that the Chief of General Staff of the FAA also intends to continue to give importance to investment in the health area for the well-being of the troops, as well as in training, especially in the branch of military sciences.
Altino Carlos José dos Santos was appointed Chief of Staff of the FAA in January of this year, by Presidential Decree. The General of Aviation has previously served as head of the Main Directorate of Planning of the General Staff of the FAA and Commander of Angola’s National Air Force.
MT/LTY/YD/DOJ
