When you ask Kuito's townsfolk how life is these days, the stoical response is usually ambivalent.

BBC: Mission impossible for UN in Kuito

The rebels set about shelling Kuito and fierce fighting is reported in Bie and Huambo provinces.

ECONOMIST: Angola

There is only one Angolan doctor in Kuito - in fact she is the only local doctor for the million people who live in Bie province.

BBC: Mission impossible for UN in Kuito

As well as bricking up the shattered walls, some of the agencies have added a new feature not envisaged by Kuito's original planners: an underground concrete bunker, reinforced against future possible attacks.

BBC: Mission impossible for UN in Kuito