The ICRC is reducing its activities in Angola seven years after over a quarter century of horrific conflict there ended. In July 2009 it will close its delegation in Luanda, but will continue to monitor the situation in Angola from its delegation in neighbouring South Africa. ICRC staff who worked in war-torn Angola as far back as 1975 share their memories.

Carnaval in Katchiungo, spring 1980

"The central plateau, the 'Planalto', was racked by a terrible famine – the direct result of the conflict. Most of my clearest memories are inevitably scenes of despair and death. But there was a day during Carnaval when we were wakened by singing and dancing. There followed magical hours of celebration in which we forgot the tragedy all around us."