Huambo: Political scientist Amilton da Gama on Monday in central Huambo province considered it essential that Angola’s mandate as chair of the African Union (AU) continues to work for the stability and security of the continent, especially in the Great Lakes region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the scientist, speaking to ANGOP, highlighted the importance of halting the advance of conflicts and terrorism that are affecting countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria, and others. Da Gama emphasized that alongside political stability, which encompasses security and peace, there is a significant challenge linked to the development of internal economies of states to ensure the well-being of their citizens.
The political scientist also stressed the necessity of establishing a free market in Africa, an initiative that predates Angola’s rotating presidency of the African Union. This move aims to facilitate the movement of people and goods across countries, fostering a more robust continental economy.
Da Gama further underscored the importance of industrialization to better produce and capitalize on local resources, including oil, wood, gold, diamonds, and other minerals. This industrialization process involves training human capital to transform its potential from a scientific perspective.
He commended Angola’s presidency, particularly President Joo Louren§o, for setting a positive example since taking over the AU’s rotating presidency in 2017. This leadership has been crucial in fighting against the mismanagement of public goods, which has contributed to less favorable social conditions in many African countries.
Since assuming the AU presidency in February, President Joo Louren§o has focused on achieving peace across the continent. He has advocated for the respect of the rule of law and constitutional governance to prevent coups and has involved all parties in conflicts in peace efforts.
Initially established as the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the African Union (AU) was created on 25 May 1963 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, through the initiative of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie. The union was founded by representatives of 32 independent African governments to combat colonialism, neo-colonialism, and the exploitation of Africa’s wealth.