Luanda: Angolan President Joo Louren§o posthumously honored musician Gelson Manuel Caio Mendes, known as “Nagrelha,” with the Peace and Development medal commemorating 50 years of independence, recognizing his contribution to national culture.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Nagrelha’s widow, Wueza Mendes, expressed her gratitude and happiness after receiving the posthumous title in honor of her late husband. She feels proud of the recognition, viewing it as an acknowledgment of Nagrelha’s impactful work as an artist.
Nagrelha, renowned for his success in Angola’s Kuduro music scene, was a co-founder of the influential group “Os Lambas.” The group, alongside members Bruno King, Amizade, and Andeloy, gained fame in the early 2000s.
The ceremony also recognized musicians Moniz de Almeida, Sabino Henda, and Murtala Fan§ony de Oliveira “Do Murras” with medals in the Peace and Development category. Moniz de Almeida noted that such recognition motivates him to continue refining his work, emphasizing the honor of being chosen from a nation of over 20 million people.
Dog Murras regarded the award as fair recognition for his contributions to national culture. He highlighted the importance of the initiative, stressing the role of music in promoting peace and development in Angola.
Sabino Henda also expressed gratitude for receiving the Peace and Development medal, marking it as a significant moment in his life and thanking those who supported him in reaching this point.
The tribute forms a part of the celebrations marking 50 years of national independence, to be celebrated on 11 November. This ceremony was the third in a series of awards recognizing individuals for their contributions to the independence, peace, and development of Angola. Previous phases honored numerous Angolan and foreign citizens, with the first phase on 4 April recognizing 247 personalities and the second phase awarding medals to 697 individuals.
In this third ceremony, 654 personalities were honored, with 155 in the Independence Class and 499 in the Peace and Development Class, underscoring the ongoing celebration of Angola’s milestones and achievements.