Decades of War
Nearly three decades of civil war ended in 2002, yet Angolan families and communities remain physically endangered and economically disadvantaged by the unexploded remnants of armed conflict. One of the most heavily contaminated regions is Moxico Province, where Angolans fought the war's last battles.
Crops cannot be safely farmed, houses cannot be safely built, wells cannot be safely dug and roads cannot be safely travelled because landmines and items of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain. The thousands of returning refugees, internally displaced persons and individuals who make their homes in the region face uncertain futures unless these deadly items are removed
MAG America is funding the work of several teams in Moxico through its implementing partner MAG, and with the financial support of the U.S. Department of State.
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Living on Top of a Minefield
When the war ended, the Angolan government began to resettle people on heavily contaminated land in Bairro Jika. Despite a high risk of contamination from explosive remnants of conflict, the resettlement took place because land was scarce.
MAG worked for more than a year to rid Bairro Jika of landmines and UXO and to educate residents about the dangers. Bairro Jika is only one of the areas in Moxico Province that is receiving assistance from MAG America and its partner MAG.
The Road Ahead
This MAG America project will facilitate the post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation of Moxico Province. It will also expedite registration of voters for the 2006 national elections because of the improved road access created by the clearance process. The work in Angola continues: more roads must be cleared, bridges reconstructed and land cleared. In short, this project will promote continued peace and development in Angola.
