CCMAR continues to expand its mission to promote science globally, reaching new milestones in Angola.
In June, João Cardoso, Adelino Canário e Inês Leal visited Namibe to strengthen the partnership with the University of Namibe (UNINBE) under the HealthyBi4Namibe project.
One of the main highlights of the visit was the progress made in setting up the food microbiology laboratory at UNINBE. With the support of the project and the CCMAR team, the laboratory is equipped to conduct research and monitor food safety by detecting bacterial contaminants such as faecal coliforms.
This is a turning point for UNINBE. Although the university already had some equipment, it lacked the resources needed for proper training and research. The new laboratory fills this gap, providing practical training for students, research support for lecturers and essential services for local health and fisheries authorities.
In the future, it will reduce dependence on distant laboratories such as those in Luanda, speed up food safety analysis and create opportunities for the sustainable development of shellfish aquaculture, with benefits for food quality, the local economy and job creation.
The CCMAR team has trained UNINBE teachers and students to operate the laboratory and carry out microbiological and molecular analyses, providing practical training and knowledge in the field. It has also interacted with the local community, visiting schools as part of the Blue Schools Angola programme to share the project with students, reinforcing CCMAR's commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and promoting sustainable development.
The HealthyBi4Namibe project is a clear example of CCMAR's commitment to ensuring food security and empowering scientists nationally and globally.
