World Refugee Day 2007 National Activities: Angola

The theme for Angola was "Refugees and Irregular Migrants in Angola." The UNHCR representative discussed refugee issues and refugee programmes during an interview with Angolan Public Television (TPA).

In Luanda, the day was celebrated at the hall of the Angolan Writers Union in Luanda and UNHCR officials took an active part in the event. A highlight came when a 10-year-old Rwandan refugee from Viana camp read a poem opposing sexual abuse and other forms of violence against children. Other activities included cultural performances by refugee women, songs, a photo exhibition and skits focusing on issues such as HIV/AIDS, abuse of refugees by police and the importance of education.

In Luena, speeches were made to mark WRD and a volleyball game was organized between a team of refugees and a UNHCR team.

In Mbanza Congo, different activities took place for WRD, including a radio debate between returnees, UNHCR and provincial authorities; a poetry competition on the WRD theme for Angola; a photo exhibition of reintegration activities and a theatrical performance by returnees.

In Menongue, a theatrical performance was held on the repatriation process, registration and return. The main event for WRD in Kuando Kubango took place in the village of Terra Nova.