“Pohamba showed not only empathy but moral leadership. Even out of office, he continues to uphold fundamental human values,” the Catholic official said.
He recalled the former President’s suggestion that the Namibian government seeks to enrol the children in the same schools attended by local children, adding that he “would advise President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to discuss this issue directly with President João Lourenço of Angola.”
Filipe Augusto went on to fault the Angolan government for its failure to meet both constitutional and international obligations regarding children’s rights.
“Our education system is weak, our curriculum poor, and education has effectively been privatized — an unacceptable reality. Public education must be a priority, with the private sector playing only a supportive role,” he said.
The human rights officer of CEAST’s justice and peace commission further challenged the Angolan government to “take responsibility and act urgently. This issue cannot be ignored.”
He called for the “development of a special plan for the demographic, cultural, and economic recovery of southern Angola, with strong community involvement.”
Filipe Augusto also advocated for “the creation of a special emergency humanitarian fund and reinforcement of basic infrastructure — especially in education and health — in municipalities affected by migration.”
“Angola’s independence jubilee cannot be a celebration for just a few. It must be a time for reconciliation, social justice, and peace. Today, bread doesn’t reach most tables. And for many, dignity is nothing but a distant memory,” the Catholic official said.
Also speaking to ACI Africa, the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Fatima of the Archdiocese of Lubango confirmed former President Pohamba’s concerns, stating that the situation is well known
“Pohamba’s indignation touched many hearts and revealed the social collapse occurring in southern Angola,” Fr. Pio Wakussanga told ACI Africa on May 20.
