Benguela - Former combatants in central Benguela province have received free public transport tickets issued by the National Ticketing Company (ENBI), ANGOP has learned.
A total of 496 out of 500 electronic passes initially planned for this group have been issued, under a memorandum between the Ministry of National Defense and Veterans of the Homeland (MINDENVP) and the National Ticketing Company.
The "Gira Mais" pass gives former combatants access to an unlimited number of journeys on the usual coastal urban routes - Benguela/Catumbela/Lobito and Benguela Baía/Farta and vice versa, as well as routes to and from inland municipalities.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the director of the Provincial Office for Former Combatants and Veterans of the Homeland in Benguela, Júlio da Silva Chagas, the issuing of 496 cards for free access to public transport is proof of the government's concern to improve the social conditions of former combatants and veterans of the homeland.
The expectation, Chagas said, is to negotiate with ENBI to issue more electronic cards, so that more former combatants and veterans of the homeland have free access to public transport throughout the province.
Relief
Elderly Alberto Mavinga, one of the beneficiaries, said he is grateful for the authorities' gesture of valuing the commitment of former combatants in the armed struggle that led to the defense of the country's territorial integrity and, consequently, the achievement of national independence.
"If Angola is independent, if it has the geographical limits left by the colonists and multipartyism, it is thanks to the former combatant," he said.
António Raul lamented the fact that he has been facing difficulties in accessing public transport on inter-urban routes, especially since the rise in cab fares.
"The pension doesn't help much. From here to Lobito it's 400 kwanzas. In Dombe Grande it's 500 (...) Now, with this, it will help us," Raul said. JH/CRB/CF/AMP
