Catholic Official in Angola Laments “devastating impacts” of International Funding Cuts on Refugee Support Initiatives

The Brazilian-born member of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of Saint Charles Borromeo (Scalabrinians) explained that “in Lóvua, we initially welcomed over 35,000 refugees, but today that number has dropped to about 6,200.”

“Many have already left the settlement center due to a lack of assistance and support. The reduction in humanitarian aid has led these refugees to seek alternatives, and the reality is they are not returning to Congo. They are being relocated to other countries where they can receive better support,” she told ACI Africa.

The Catholic Nun said that “financial aid from international organizations has been crucial for refugees to settle more sustainably, with agricultural and fish farming projects. But now, with the reduction of aid, the situation is unsustainable for many.”

The CEPAMI official emphasized that while the Angolan government has supported infrastructural development, including housing and land for refugees, it lacks the capacity to provide the continuous financial assistance needed. 

According to the latest data that Sr. Clara provided, “The total number of refugees in Angola is estimated to be about 50,000, with the majority concentrated in the Lunda Norte province.”

Despite the reduction in the number of refugees, the Catholic Nun said the border Dioceses continue to face challenges in welcoming irregular migrants, who she said are often not officially registered as refugees.

“CEPAMI continues its work in partnership with local and international organizations, hoping to raise awareness among authorities and society about the importance of providing dignified and safe reception for refugees and migrants in Angola,” Sr. Clara told ACI Africa.

She continued, “CEPAMI’s visit to the border provinces and the data obtained during the mission reflect the grave humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international action to address the situation of refugees and migrants in Angola, a country that, despite its solidarity and local efforts, heavily relies on external support to ensure the survival and dignity of people affected by conflicts in neighbouring countries like the DRC.”

“The Church, through the Pastoral Care for Migrants, is on alert in the border Dioceses, particularly in Uíge and Mbanza Congo, to welcome and support refugees,” she said. 

Additionally, the Executive Secretary of CEPAMI went on to say, “the visit also aimed to understand the situation at the borders, how the police handle irregular migration and human trafficking, and raise awareness among civil and religious authorities about the reception and protection of migrants and refugees.”