Luanda, Angola — A cholera outbreak sweeping through Angola’s capital, Luanda, has resulted in 170 confirmed cases and 15 deaths as of Saturday evening, according to the Ministry of Health.
The situation remains critical, with cases spreading to additional municipalities within Luanda province.
The Ministry has activated a national emergency response plan, focusing on measures such as enhancing epidemiological surveillance, disinfecting water tanks, and improving public health communication. Over the past 24 hours, three additional deaths and 51 new cases were reported, intensifying efforts to curb the disease. 
Silvia Lutucuta, Angola’s Minister of Health, described the measures being taken as crucial to combating the outbreak. “Everything we are doing is to fight this disease,” she stated during a visit to Cacuaco Municipality, the epicenter of the outbreak.
Efforts include distributing calcium hypochlorite for water disinfection and ensuring better access to potable water in high-risk areas.
On Saturday, a Multisectoral Commission convened at the General Hospital in Cacuaco to coordinate response efforts. Adao Silva, Director-General of the Public Water Company, confirmed that 17 community water tanks used for drinking water have been cleaned, tested, and removed from use to safeguard public health.
The Ministry acknowledged challenges such as poor sanitation and inadequate water systems in affected areas, which have exacerbated the outbreak’s spread. Cholera, defined as severe dehydration or acute watery diarrhea caused by the cholera vibrio, primarily affects areas with limited access to safe drinking water.
Angola’s Ministry of Health emphasized the importance of sustaining efforts to prevent further transmission and protect vulnerable populations.
With the outbreak escalating since the first confirmed case on Tuesday, resources and emergency plans are being mobilized to address the health crisis.
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