Kundi Paihama facts for kids

Kundi Paihama (born December 9, 1944 – died July 24, 2020) was an important politician from Angola. He held many different jobs in the Angolan government throughout his career. One of his most well-known roles was serving as Angola's Minister of Defense from 2002 to 2010.

Who Was Kundi Paihama?

Kundi Paihama was born in a place called Quipungo, in the Huíla Province of Angola. At the time, Angola was a territory of Portugal. He grew up to become a key figure in Angolan politics.

Important Roles in Government

Paihama had a long and active career in public service. He held many different positions, showing his dedication to his country.

• Provincial Commissioner of Cunene: One of his first major roles was leading the Cunene province from 1976 to 1979.
• Minister of State Security: From 1980 to 1981, he worked to keep the country safe as the Minister of State Security.
• Provincial Commissioner of Benguela: He then served as the leader of Benguela province from 1981 to 1986.
• Minister of State for Inspection and State Control: From 1986 to 1991, he helped make sure the government was working correctly.
• Governor of Luanda: He was the governor of Luanda, the capital city, from 1991 to 1993.
• Governor of Huila: Later, he returned to his home province of Huila to serve as its governor from 1995 to 1999.
• Minister of Defense: This was a very important job, where he was in charge of Angola's military from 2002 to 2010.
• Minister of Anti-Colonial Fighters and War Veterans: After his time as Defense Minister, he helped those who fought for Angola's freedom from 2012 to 2014.
• Governor of Huambo: He also served as the governor of Huambo province from 2014 to 2016.
• Governor of Cunene: Finally, he returned to lead Cunene province again from 2016 to 2018.

His Time in Parliament

In September 2008, Kundi Paihama was a candidate for the National Assembly, which is like Angola's parliament. He was on the list for the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola party. The MPLA won a huge number of seats in that election, and Kundi Paihama became a member of parliament. He served in this role from 2018 to 2020.

Business and Later Life

Besides his political work, Kundi Paihama also had business interests. He owned a part of a bank called Banco Angolano de Negócios e Comércio. Kundi Paihama passed away on July 24, 2020, in a private hospital in Luanda.