The UK Government has just announced new funding to support HALO's work making land safe in Angola. This includes funding four more teams as part of our 100 Women in Demining Project, creating a space for women like Olimpia to become empowered, taking control of their own future and helping shape their communities. This is Olimpia's story.
My name is Olimpia Nduva Chicoma Dala, I live in Lobito, Angola. I am 27-years-old and I have a five-year-old daughter called Valaria and a son, Fernando, who is three—they are really great kids! Before I began working for HALO, life was a struggle. I worked many jobs—in a salon, as a cashier in a shop and tried to earn money by selling clothes and shoes. It is really hard for women to find work in Angola, especially for my generation.
"I remember excavating my first real mine, I was very afraid but now I am happy that I can do this work."
When I first heard that the job with HALO involved removing landmines I was frightened—I thought maybe I will die doing this! But my friends and family encouraged me, they told me to be strong and go and do the training. I remember excavating my first real mine, I was very afraid but now I am happy that I can do this work.
My family suffered during the war. Some of them died running from the soldiers, some were killed by bullets. The landmines from the war represent a big danger to our lives but as a woman I am able to contribute to my country by removing them. People might say it is not work for women but we can do what men can do, we just need to believe and be strong—this is what I am doing.
"People might say it is not work for women but we can do what men can do, we just need to believe and be strong—this is what I am doing."
My children stay with parents whilst I am away. (Currently the women are working at remote minefield in Benguela Province so they live in a tented camp for the 24 day work cycle.) Of course I miss them, but I am used to it now and the time goes quite fast—suddenly it is time to go home again. They are always very, very excited when I come back. They like me to bring them, sweets and toys!
It is everyone’s dream to be able to advance when they get a job. I do not give up on my dreams. One day I would also like to be able to return to my studies, to become a secretary or to open my own salon.
I would like to say to all women in the world: ‘Whatever you want to do in your life, do not give up, keep on going. Do not say this is men’s work, we women can do anything too."
