Angola Marks 50 Years of Independence Amid Hardship

This Tuesday, Angola celebrates the 50th anniversary of its independence from Portugal. The nation formally declared its freedom on November 11, 1975. This ended a 13-year struggle against colonial rule.

The moment of independence saw dramatic internal conflict. Nationalist forces from the MPLA and UNITA plunged the country into a civil war. That devastating conflict spanned nearly three decades.

The Shadow of Persistent Poverty

Commemorations recognizing this milestone have continued throughout the year. However, beyond the official celebrations, many Angolans still confront immense social and economic hardships.

After 50 years, the country shows progress in urban and major infrastructure development. Nevertheless, systemic issues persist.

Challenges related to widespread poverty, high unemployment, and limited access to essential healthcare remain entrenched.

Data from 2018 indicated that roughly one-third of the population lived below the international poverty line of  $2.15 per day. Approximately 16.5 million Angolans, or 52.9% of the populace, survived on less than $3.65 per person per day.

The Daily Struggle for Survival

The reality of these struggles hits citizens hard. Adelina, a vendor working in Luanda’s Kikolo market, lamented the situation.

“My life is difficult. I can’t earn money or buy better clothes, but what’s really wearing us down is the hunger,” she said.

She highlighted the instability of her life: “We don’t have a permanent place to live, we don’t have a salary, we don’t have husbands.”

The economic outlook is particularly grim for younger citizens. Angola’s youth unemployment rate remains high, standing at 27.9% as of 2024. This contrasts sharply with the 14.5% unemployment rate for the total labor force.

Daniel, a young Luanda resident, expressed his generation’s aspirations. “We want young people to have jobs,” he said. He added, “we also want society to give more support to the youth, because it is through the youth that we can help the country grow.”

A Call for Change Amidst Celebration

As Angola marks its golden jubilee, the ongoing struggle underscores a critical need. Comprehensive economic diversification and social reform must happen.

The celebrations honor the country’s difficult journey to freedom. At the same time, the voices of the youth and working class underscore the urgent need for leaders. They must translate the nation’s vast resource wealth into prosperity for all citizens.

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