Angola is a country with a high poverty index. It struggles with the economic and social consequences of a 27 year-long civil war finally brought to an end in 2001. The main problem faced by this country is the aftermath of this conflict. Political situation is gradually approaching stability. Social situation, in turn, is aggravated by bad health of the population and a threat of epidemics. One of the consequences of the civil war is the internal displacement, which in Angola is estimated to be of 1.8 million people. Angola has a potential that can allow for rapid development (it has valuable natural resources), but a long-lasting stability, peace, and an anticorruption campaign are necessary.

Polish development assistance initiatives carried out in Angola include:

• support for geological research, development of mining industry and petroleum refining;
• fishery;
• reintegration of former soldiers into society and assistance provided to internally displaced people;
• potable water supply for the population;
• health care, including combating infectious diseases.

Polish aid provided to Angola in 2006 was focused on co-operation within the health sector, geological research and the development of the mining industry.

Renovation of Regional Rehabilitation Centre in Luena

Angola struggles with the consequences of long-lasting military conflicts. Approximately 90 thousand Angolans are physically disabled due to injuries suffered during these conflicts. The Regional Rehabilitation Centre in Luena operates in the region of western Angola inhabited by one million people. For a few years now, the responsibility for the Centre has gradually passed to Angolan authorities. After investing in the facilities of the centre and carrying out renovation works it should function as an independent institution. Polish Medical Mission, in co-operation with the Vietnam Veterans Assistance Fund, carried out a renovation of the medical infrastructure of the Centre, namely the physiotherapy unit was extended, the roof was fixed, and new equipment was delivered for the orthopaedic physiotherapy unit.

St. Lucas Health Centre in Kifangando

Saint Lucas Health Centre has received financial support from the funds of the Polish aid programme since 2004, mainly through grants for the Divine Missionaries Centre for Missionary Animation. The Centre is continuously being expanded and provided with specialised equipment and medicines for tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. X-ray equipment has also been purchased and a pavilion for AIDS and tuberculosis infected patients was enlarged.