By Friends of Angola
Date: May 25, 2025
Sources: Novo Jornal, RTP África
Angola is facing one of the most severe public health crises in recent years. Since the beginning of 2025, the country has been plagued by a cholera outbreak that, as of May 23, has already caused 660 deaths and recorded nearly 22,000 confirmed cases, according to national media reports.
The first diagnosis of the disease was recorded on January 7, 2025, and since then, the epidemic has spread across several provinces, further worsening the already fragile sanitary conditions in many communities.
Current Situation
– Cumulative cases: 22,000
– Deaths: 660
– Hospitalizations: Over 500 people remain hospitalized
– New cases on May 23: 223 reported in a single day
Most Affected Provinces
– Namibe: 74 new cases
– Cuanza Sul: 55
– Luanda: 25
– Huíla and Benguela: 15 each
– Other affected provinces: Cuanza Norte, Malanje, Lunda Norte, Icolo e Bengo, Cabinda, Bengo, and Zaire
Underreporting and Resource Shortages
Health authorities warn that the actual number of infections may be significantly higher than official figures. Studies suggest that for each laboratory-confirmed case, there may be up to four undiagnosed cases, due to limited testing capacity and the presence of asymptomatic carriers who unknowingly spread the disease.
The situation is further exacerbated by resource scarcity, insufficient sanitation infrastructure, and a lack of basic hygiene services in many areas.
Prevention and Response Measures
– Personal hygiene: Encouraging frequent handwashing with soap and use of clean drinking water
– Vaccination: Ongoing immunization campaigns targeting vulnerable zones
– Distribution of disinfection kits and community education about cholera symptoms and how to respond to contamination
Final Remarks
The cholera outbreak poses a serious challenge to public health in Angola and demands a coordinated response from the government, civil society, and international partners. Friends of Angola calls for urgent action to contain the spread, save lives, and strengthen national systems of health, sanitation, and epidemiological surveillance.