Angola

Angola continues to suffer the repercussions of a 27-year civil war that ended in 2002. More than 1.5 million people were killed, 4 million were displaced, and much of the infrastructure was damaged.

Although it is an oil-producing country, Angola ranked 157th out of 179 countries on the United Nations Human Development Index and remains one of the most economically challenged countries in Africa, with more than 70% of the people struggling to make a living through small-scale agriculture.

Malaria in Angola

Malaria is by far the most common cause of illness and death in Angola— children under age five account for half of all malaria deaths.

More than half the population lives in malaria-prone areas where transmission occurs throughout the entire year

NetsforLife® Implementing Partner

The Diocese of Angola, part of the Church of the Province of Southern Africa, consists of 26 parishes and 4,800 Anglican congregants.

The diocese is a vital partner in tackling the country’s most urgent health care issues— malaria prevention, HIV/AIDS prevention, clean water and sanitation, nutrition and primary health care.

Areas Impacted

NetsforLife® has already reached 40% of targeted communities.

Programs are focused in the following areas:

• NetsforLife® is working in 11 zones comprising more than 200 communities in the province of Uige. Considered the “heartland” of the Anglican Church, Uige has one of the highest incidences of malaria in the country. The program has been enthusiastically received by communities, the church, other denominations and the provincial government. Residents know the importance of nets, and the demand is high. A core group of volunteers already has been trained to carry out community sensitizations, as well as conduct monitoring and evaluation, which are integrated throughout the NetsforLife® program. 
• In Cunene, a remote province in the south of the country on the Zambian border, NetsforLife® has established strong relationships with the local government, the Ministry of Health and local hospitals, links which give the communities confidence in the program. Community awareness and education are a top priority because the importance of using nets is not widely understood in the area. NetsforLife® is working in five zones and 78 communities in Cunene.