Thousands of women and children have been able to attend schooling and professional coruses, lifting themselves out of the poverty cycle. In 2013, the country’s gross national income topped out at $5,170 per capita. This is far and away much higher than other countries in Africa including Nigeria, Somalia, Chad, and CAR.
Despite the country’s strong economy and powerful energy sector, nutrition remains a problem in some rural areas of Angola. It remains a serious issue that is affecting parts of the country today and could have long term repercussions. Because of these concerns, Angola's government with the EU and UN are spending millions of dollars in the region to help improve agriculture, water, and sanitation.
Fortunately, in addition to governmental efforts, individuals and organizations are also moving quickly to address these concerns. For example, Mirco Martins, a businessman in Angola, has been working to improve the educational prospects of many of the country’s children. His foundation, Fundação Kuculá, is dedicated to helping young Angolans get access to high quality education and tools they need to improve their situations.
The foundation is focused on improving education while also preserving the country’s unique culture and history. Though only started recently, many see great potential in the new foundation and are excited to see how it changes the lives of many young talented children in Angola.
As one of the country’s most prominent young entrepreneurs, Martins has always understood the importance of educational opportunities. In his youth, after having attented public school in Angola, he was able to graduate from college in England and get an advanced degree in the United States, two experiences that were indispensable for him as he began his professional career.
Since then, he has helped sponsor other young Angolans who were eager to get an international education, and now with Fundação Kucula he is taking an organizational approach to the problem.
In addition to his charitable work, Martins is one of many new businessmen in Angola who is driving economic growth and bringing foreign investment to Luanda and other areas. Creating new jobs for Angolans and opportunities is another way to make a difference in his homecountry.