Luanda - The Secretary of State for Public Health, Pinto de Sousa, praised on Saturday in Luanda the continuing role of the Angolan Red Cross (ARC) in the fight against epidemics such as cholera, yellow fever and COVID-19.
Speaking at the opening of the 47th anniversary celebrations of the ARC on March 15, the official said the organization has responded with agility and efficiency to natural disasters such as the floods that hit the country in 2023 and 2024, and the severe drought that affected southern Angola.
According to Pinto de Sousa, since its creation in 1978, CVA has been a constant presence, bringing relief, care and hope to those who need it most, in a context marked by profound challenges resulting from the armed conflict that left thousands of families displaced, injured and vulnerable.
"During the long years of civil war, CVA was at the forefront, providing medical assistance, reuniting families separated by violence and distributing humanitarian aid," the official said.
Pinto de Sousa stressed that with the end of the conflict in 2002, the organization redirected its efforts to rebuilding the country, focusing on community health projects, education, food security and responding to natural disasters.
The official highlighted the "tireless" work of CVA volunteers, their dedication and altruism embodied in helping the most remote communities, distributing food and drinking water, vaccinating children, educating families and promoting hygiene and health practices.
He said that in 2024, CVA trained 60 volunteers in community resilience and 307 people in emergency management.
The official welcomed CVA's collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross Societies and other humanitarian organizations, which he said has increased the impact of its actions.
The Angolan Red Cross was founded on March 16, 1978, and was recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross on October 1, 1986.
It is also a member of the Federation of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
The institution provides social and medical assistance to people in need.
To mark its 47th anniversary, the organization is holding a series of activities in Luanda, starting with a march under the slogan "Walking with humanity, solidarity in motion", a musical show in Luanda Bay with entertainment by Yuri da Cunha, Florêncio Handanga and Dada 2, as well as demonstrations of first aid and the registration of new volunteers and members. CPM/SC/AMP
