U.S. ambassador to Angola, Nina Maria Fite, visited the province of Benguela to observe U.S.-supported activities in the health and education sectors, deepen the existing dialogue with local authorities, and reinforce U.S. support in Angola’s anti-corruption efforts. During the visit, Ambassador Fite met with members of the Benguela provincial government, held working meetings with civil society and youth leaders, business and health officials, and met with members of the American community based in the region.
Upon arrival in Benguela, the Ambassador met with Governor Rui Falcão where they discussed a series of issues ranging from the latest socio-economic initiatives in Benguela to potential commercial opportunities for both countries. The ambassador and governor talked about the U.S. government’s work in supporting the fields of health and education in Benguela, which will be one of four priority provinces where the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will focus their efforts to fight HIV/AIDS under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). In various meetings with the business community the Ambassador extended an invitation to participate in the 2019 Louisiana Gulf Coast Oil Exposition. Following her meeting with the Governor, she later rode on a train, powered by an American General Electric locomotive, from Catumbela to Lobito and visited the Port of Lobito and Sonaref Refinery.
The Ambassador visited the Cabrais Health Center in Catumbela municipality and the Benguela Maternal Child Center, two sites already working with CDC and USAID to fight HIV/AIDS in cooperation with the First Lady of Angola’s Born Free to Shine initiative.
On the last day of her visit, Ambassador Fite visited Radio Benguela where she met with journalists and later concluded her trip with a visit to the Library of Benguela or Mediateca. While at the Mediateca she donated books, reinforced the strong partnership between the United States Embassy and network of Mediatecas in Angola and encouraged youth to apply for the 2020 Mandela Washington Fellowship Program.
