Humpata: At least four water wells equipped with solar panels were vandalized in Humpata, Huila province, in February, leaving roughly 20,000 people without water. The damage is estimated at eight million kwanzas. These are new systems, less than a year old, with the perpetrators stealing solar panels and 300 meters of submerged cables.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the municipal director of Energy and Water, Gelson Muanza, informed on Tuesday that the acts occurred in the neighborhoods of Jamba 2, Tchinina, Dundo Alumbe (Bata-bata), and Caholo. The vandalism significantly affected the local communities, depriving approximately 20,000 people of essential water access.

Muanza emphasized that the sector currently manages 54 water wells throughout the municipality of Humpata, which were installed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. In response to the vandalism, Muanza announced the construction of 12 additional water wells and the installation of 10 new electricity transformation poles to supplement the existing 24, particularly in areas identified as underserved.

Humpata, with an estimated population of 114,051 inhabitants, is situated about 22 kilometers west of Lubango, the capital of Huila province. The ongoing efforts to improve water and electricity infrastructure aim to address the immediate needs of the affected population and prevent further disruptions.