Rio de Janeiro: The Angolan Head of State, João Lourenço, emphasized the necessity of a sensitive approach to combating hunger and poverty on a global scale at the 19th G20 Summit. Speaking at the summit, which was inaugurated by host Lula da Silva at the Museum of Modern Art, Lourenço highlighted the pervasive nature of hunger, affecting both developing and industrialized nations.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Lourenço urged a unified effort from governments, entrepreneurs, and humanitarian organizations to address the root causes of hunger without relying on temporary welfare solutions. He praised Brazil’s creation of the Alliance in the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty, emphasizing its potential to advance sustainable agriculture and food security worldwide.
Lourenço recognized Brazil’s success in reducing hunger and poverty, particularly through investment in agriculture, as a model for Angola. He stressed Angola’s commitment to diversifying its economy by bolstering agriculture to decrease dep
endency on food imports and promote industrial growth.
He underscored Angola’s advantages, including fertile land and abundant water, which position the country as an attractive destination for foreign investment in agriculture. Lourenço expressed optimism about achieving poverty eradication goals set by the United Nations and the African Union through a blend of national and foreign efforts.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change, such as severe droughts, Lourenço outlined Angola’s initiatives to combat these effects. He described infrastructure projects like the Cafu canal, which provide water to drought-stricken regions, and upcoming projects aimed at improving living conditions and agricultural opportunities in southern Angola.
The President also mentioned the KWENDA program, likened to Brazil’s Bolsa Família, which provides financial assistance to vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to empower individuals to make small investments for financial autonomy.
Lourenço commended Braz
il’s leadership during its G20 presidency, highlighting the importance of collaborative international efforts in addressing these pressing global issues.