The province of Malanje in Angola is making significant strides in improving its healthcare system, thanks to the efforts and leadership of its local authorities. On September 10 and 11, Governor Marcos Alexandre Nhunga and the Vice Governor of Social Affairs, Dr. Franco Mufinda, along with Provincial Director Dr. Ribeiro André José de Carvalho, welcomed the World Health Organization (WHO) team led by Dr. Zabulon Yoti. The visit served to reaffirm the provincial authorities’ commitment to enhancing medical care in the region.
Governor Nhunga, in particular, has been a staunch advocate for public health, highlighting the ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare services in Malanje. Under his leadership, the province has made significant progress in implementing primary health care approaches and has undertaken initiatives such as equipping 138 health posts with essential medical kits, greatly improving access to basic services in remote areas. This commitment to primary care underscores Malanje’s dedication to achieving universal health coverage and addressing challenges in the most isolated regions.
Additionally, the provincial government has integrated innovative strategies like the “One Health” approach, which combines health with agriculture and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). This holistic approach reflects a coordinated effort to improve community health from multiple angles, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to the well-being of the population.
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The recent signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Universidade Rainha Njinga Mbandi marks a significant milestone in strengthening local capacity and promoting innovation in the health sector. This agreement highlights the proactive role of provincial authorities in collaborating with academic institutions to ensure sustained and effective development in the region.
The visit of the WHO team to the general hospital in Malanje, where services such as tuberculosis and leprosy treatment were evaluated, underscored the crucial role of provincial hospitals.