Luanda: The President of the Republic, Joo Lourenço, emphasized on Wednesday that the celebrations of 50 years of National Independence constitute a milestone of unity and reaffirmation of the national commitment to progress and social justice. In his State of the Nation Address, delivered at the opening of the 2025/26 Parliamentary Year, he recalled that Angola’s achievements are the fruit of the courage and determination of its people.

According to Angola Press News Agency, President Lourenço stated, “We celebrate 50 years of existence as a sovereign State, 50 years as a free people in control of their own destiny, fifty years free from the colonial yoke, discrimination, and oppression.” He emphasized that November will be a month of reflection and collective pride, in which the Angolan people will celebrate half a century of freedom and sovereignty, the result of a long and heroic struggle for self-determination.

The Head of State shared his vision for the future, describing it as a continuation of a her
oic journey spanning five decades, with the determination to build a prosperous nation. During his address, he highlighted the historical journey from the arrival of Portuguese navigators in the 15th century to the proclamation of Independence on November 11, 1975, praising the role of fighters and patriots who made national liberation possible.

Joo Lourenço reiterated the Executive’s commitment to strengthening the national economy, promoting employment, and improving the social conditions of Angolan families. He argued that the celebration of 50 years of independence should inspire a new cycle of development and modernization.