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A
province of spectacular tourism potential, Namibe is counting
on natural wonders such as the Serra da Leba to attract investors
and tourists alike.
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Ever
since Angola finally achieved independence from Portugal in 1975, this
southwest African nation has been the scene of the continents
longest running conflict in the post-colonial era. After a short-lived
period of cease-fire between government forces and the National Union
for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) rebels, fighting resumed
in late 1998 and has stunted the development of the non-mineral sectors
of the countrys economy.
But throughout the years of conflict, the southwest coastal province
of Namibe has remained a beacon of stability and peace.
With the exception of the 1975 South African invasion of Angola, during
which the Namibe province was briefly occupied by South African forces,
this mineral-rich province has been free of military conflict.
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Rich
in resources, the province is Angola’s showcase for foreign visitors
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In
fact, the province is the chosen area of Angola for visits by U.S. businessmen
and diplomats, who travel throughout Namibe without restrictions as
they hammer out profitable joint venture agreements and cooperation
pacts.
Furthermore, Namibes highly-regarded governor, Salomao Xirimbimbi,
stresses that his government is working to abide by the highest standards.
We do not tolerate corruption, he notes.
Those who choose Namibe as a province in which to invest their
time and money will be welcomed in the friendliest of ways. They will
also receive guidance and assistance from the local authorities so that
their projects can be pushed through in the shortest time possible.
The province is a peaceful one and is ready to attract investment. The
authorities are more than willing to help outline the most effective
avenues of cooperation, Governor Xirimbimbi points out.