Luanda: The president of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed deep regret over the death of Angola's former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Manuel Domingos Augusto, which occurred on Friday in Luanda due to illness. In a condolence message made public, Youssouf acknowledged his contribution to African diplomacy and the promotion of Pan-African ideals. He received with dismay the news of the death of the Angolan diplomat, whom he described as a distinguished public servant and dedicated defender of integration and cooperation between African countries.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the African Union Commission addressed its most sincere condolences to the Government and the Angolan people, as well as to the bereaved family, friends, and former colleagues of Manuel Domingos Augusto. The note mentioned that the African Union joins the national mourning and pays tribute to the memory and legacy of the diplomat, whose dedication to the service of Angola, African diplomacy, and continental integration will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

The continental organization highlighted that Manuel Domingos Augusto's trajectory left a lasting mark on strengthening relations between African states and deepening efforts towards the unity of the continent. The African Union reiterated its solidarity with Angola in this moment of pain and sadness and pays tribute to the legacy of the deceased in the service of his country and Africa.

Manuel Domingos Augusto held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2017 to 2020, after serving as Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs from 2010 to 2012. Born on September 2, 1957, in Luanda, he graduated in Public International Law and held a Master of Arts in Diplomacy, Diplomatic and Consular Law and Practice.

Throughout his career, he served as ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the African Union from 2005 to 2010, and to Zambia from 1995 to 1999. He also served in various diplomatic roles, including head of the first Mission in South Africa, first secretary of Angola in Nigeria, and head of the Department of Western Countries of the Ministry of Foreign Trade.

Additionally, he served as deputy minister of Social Communication and had a career in several press organizations such as Jornal de Angola and Angola's Public Television (TPA). At the time of his death, Manuel Domingos Augusto served as secretary of the MPLA Political Bureau for Foreign Affairs.