The Ministry of Energy and Water organized the 12th Council of the Catholic Church “Dom Armando Amaral dos Santos,” held in Benguela province from September 27th to 28th. The theme of the event was “Energy and Water: Towards Expansion and Enhanced Quality of Services.” Opening remarks were given by His Excellency the Governor of Benguela Province, Luís Manuel da Fonseca Nunes, expressing appreciation for choosing the province as the event’s venue. He pledged collaboration to address the population’s needs, especially focusing on new investment projects for the growing industries in the region.
Minister for Energy and Water, João Baptista Borges, accompanied by the Secretaries of State for Energy and Water, underscored the importance of cooperation and support from the Benguela Provincial Government in realizing sector projects. Emphasizing the need to attract investments and foster public-private partnerships, optimize the market model, ensure tariff suitability, and guarantee the sustainability of public companies, Minister Borges highlighted the crucial role of improving revenue collection and reducing costs.
The event aimed to evaluate the progress of implementing the recommendations from the 11th Consultative Council and bring together professionals from the sector. Key aspects included a review of the Sector Action Plan 2018-2022 to improve access and service quality. The focus was on addressing the market model, tariff efficiency, and company sustainability to attract private investment and establish public-private partnerships. Additionally, the Sector’s Action Plan for 2023-2027 was presented.
Parallel activities included visits to the Biópio photovoltaic plant managed by PRODEL and the inauguration of ENDE’s Regional Dispatch Center in Lobito, Benguela province. Minister João Baptista Borges emphasized the Dispatch Center’s importance in enhancing the National Electricity Distribution Company’s efficiency in customer service, aligning with the Strategy for the Technological Evolution of Distribution Services.
During the ceremony, Minister Borges presented a three-wheeled motorcycle to José André, demonstrating solidarity and urgent support for his physical disability. Certificates and gifts were distributed to participants. The event was attended by Vice-Governors from Benguela, Bié, Cunene, and Lunda Sul provinces, representatives from various ministries, central and dependent bodies, sector companies’ Boards of Directors, Provincial Offices of Infrastructure and Technical Services, partners, local authorities, and virtual attendees via the Zoom platform, totaling 224 participants.
