From New Recruit to Information Management Officer
GABELA, Angola, 15 June 2026 – Information Management Officer Airton Gândara supports APOPO’s mine action operations in Angola. While he may not work directly in the minefields, the data he manages helps teams track progress, monitor performance, and make informed decisions that keep operations running effectively.
Airton’s journey with APOPO is also a story of growth. When he joined in 2024, he had little knowledge of mine action and no formal experience in Information Management. Through determination, practical learning, and support from colleagues across APOPO’s global programs, he has steadily built his skills and advanced through several roles to become an Information Management Officer.
Today, Airton supports operational teams, solves technical challenges, and helps transform field data into information that drives action. He also serves as APOPO’s communications focal point in Angola, identifying stories and opportunities from the field and helping connect the Angola program with APOPO’s global communications team. His story shows how investing in local talent creates opportunities not only for communities affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war, but also for the people working to make those communities safer. Read on to hear Airton’s story in his own words.
Joining APOPO
“I am from Angola, and I currently work as an Information Management Officer with APOPO’s Angola program.
I first heard about APOPO through my uncle, who works as a deminer. He told me there was an opportunity for someone with English and IT skills. At the time, I was working for another company, but I decided to apply even though I did not fully understand what the role involved. I was invited for an interview and, to my surprise, I was selected.
Before joining APOPO, I did not know much about demining. To be honest, it was something that scared me because of the explosive ordnance risk education sessions I attended as a child. But after learning more about the work, I began to understand the impact it has on communities. I have always wanted to be part of something meaningful, something that makes a difference. APOPO gave me that opportunity.”
Learning Information Management
“When I joined APOPO, I started as an assistant on a short-term contract. At first, I thought the role would mostly involve working with computers, which I was already comfortable with. I quickly realized there was much more to learn.
Information Management was a completely new field for me. I learned through practical experience, solving real problems, and receiving support from colleagues. Later, I became an Information Management trainee, then an Information Management Assistant, and eventually an Information Management Officer.
Looking back, I am proud of how much I have grown. Today, I can identify and solve many problems independently, and that confidence has had a positive impact on both my professional and personal life.”
Supporting Operations Through Data
“My work involves receiving information from different operational areas, including demining, spot tasks, and explosive ordnance risk education activities. I organize and manage this data using systems such as Excel and ArcGIS Survey123, and I perform quality checks to ensure everything is accurate.
I also prepare monthly reports, resolve technical issues, fix data discrepancies, and support other Information Management activities.
Information Management connects the field and management. Through accurate data, it is possible to monitor operations without being physically present. The information helps answer important questions such as: Are we meeting our targets? What needs improvement? What resources are missing? In this way, data directly supports decision-making.”
Learning From Colleagues Around the World
“Most of my training came through practical experience, but I also benefited from support from international colleagues in countries such as Cambodia, Azerbaijan, and Ukraine.
I participated in online workshops and training sessions that helped me improve my skills in ArcGIS and other tools. One of the highlights of my career so far was attending intensive training in Cambodia. There, I improved my knowledge of ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, geographic information systems, dashboard creation, data management, Power Automate, and IMSMA NG.
That experience was very important for my development and gave me new skills that I can now apply to support the Angola program.”
Beyond Information Management
Today, Airton is also APOPO’s communications focal point in Angola, identifying stories and opportunities from the field and helping connect the Angola program with APOPO’s global communications team.
“I also support communication activities through photography, digital tools, and artificial intelligence. One of the things I enjoy most about this work is meeting different people, learning about different aspects of the program, and helping share the stories behind our operations.
I particularly value the opportunity to learn from colleagues across APOPO, especially our Program Manager, whom I greatly admire.”
A Proud Moment
“One of the achievements I am most proud of was helping solve one of the program’s biggest challenges related to data discrepancies. It required a lot of attention to detail and persistence, but we were able to improve the quality and reliability of the information being used.
A memorable moment for me came in December 2025, when the Program Manager recognized my work. It was a great honor and gave me even more motivation to continue developing my skills.”
Challenges and Growth
“One of the biggest challenges I have faced is working under pressure and managing multiple requests at the same time. I have also worked hard to improve my organization and memory.
Over time, I learned that discipline, planning, and taking detailed notes make a big difference. These are skills that have helped me become more effective in my work and in my daily life.
I am fortunate to work with a respectful, dedicated, and supportive team. The team spirit at APOPO is something I value greatly.”
Making Communities Safer
“The impact of APOPO’s work is very significant. Many people, especially in urban areas, do not realize that mines and explosive remnants of war still exist.
Through land release and explosive ordnance risk education, APOPO helps communities live and work more safely. One of the most important benefits is returning land to productive use. When agricultural land becomes safe again, it contributes to food security and economic development.
Knowing that our work helps create these opportunities is something that makes me proud.”
“I often say that I am a product of APOPO. I joined with no experience in this field and was trained within APOPO. The beginning was challenging, but I received support from people who made a difference in my journey, especially the Angola Program Manager Manuel Agostinho. Through those experiences, I learned patience, discipline, and resilience. I am very grateful to everyone who contributed to my growth. In the future, I would like to continue developing within APOPO, particularly in project management and team leadership. My goal is to keep learning, keep growing, and continue contributing to APOPO’s success.
I would like people to see APOPO as an organization that brings safety, peace, and support to communities. If someone encounters something dangerous, they should know there is a team ready to help. That is what APOPO represents to me.”
