In a bid to enhance cooperation and strengthen health systems at the provincial level, the World Health Organization (WHO) team, led by the WHO Representative in Angola, Dr. Zabulon Yoti, conducted a mission to the province of Malanje from 10 to 11 September. The visit, aimed at reinforcing collaboration between WHO and local authorities, included key discussions with the Governor of Malanje, Marcos Alexandre Nhunga, and the Vice Governor for Social Affairs, Dr. Franco Mufinda, as well as the Provincial Director, Dr. Ribeiro Andre Jose de Carvalho along with their team of municipal and hospital directors.
During the meeting, Governor Nhunga expressed his deep appreciation for the ongoing efforts of WHO in supporting the government at both national and regional levels to protect, promote, and provide health for all. He highlighted the importance of WHO's work through its provincial focal points, which ensure a strong commitment to the goal of "Health for All" across Angola. WHO has focal points in the majority of provinces to assist local governments in achieving their health objectives, and Malanje is no exception.
The discussions focused on key strategies to improve healthcare in the region, particularly through the implementation of primary health care (PHC) approaches to achieve Universal Health Coverage. These approaches will bolster community outreach efforts and health interventions in remote areas. One of the highlights was the provincial initiative to successfully equip 138 health posts in Malanje with essential health kits, which has improved access to basic healthcare services. Additionally, the commitment to integrate agriculture and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) into health interventions, promotes health by adopting a "One Health" approach.
The provincial government expressed its satisfaction with WHO's work in the region, noting that the collaboration would be further strengthened through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WHO and the Universidade Rainha Njinga Mbandi. This MoU marks a significant step forward in WHO's engagement with the academic sector in Angola, reinforcing efforts to build local capacity and foster innovation in health.
Later in the day, Governor Nhunga led the WHO delegation on a tour of the general hospital, offering the team an opportunity to witness firsthand the healthcare services provided at the facility such as the tuberculosis and leprosy treatment center. This visit underscored the critical role hospitals play in the provincial health system and how WHO's support can contribute to enhancing service delivery and improving patient care.
As WHO continues to work closely with central, local governments and academic institutions, the organization remains committed to ensuring that health systems are resilient, inclusive, and capable of meeting the needs of all communities.