Angola is marking the 50th anniversary of its independence from Portugal this Tuesday, November 11, reflecting on both the triumph of liberation and the persistent challenges that continue to shape the nation. The southern African country declared independence on 11 November 1975, ending a 13-year anti-colonial war. However, the victory was quickly overshadowed by a 27-year civil war between rival liberation movements the ruling People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) that only ended in 2002.
Nationwide celebrations have been held throughout 2025, highlighting Angola’s progress in rebuilding cities, expanding infrastructure, and maintaining peace. Yet, for many Angolans, independence has not brought the economic stability or opportunity they hoped for. According to the World Bank, as of 2018, one in three Angolans lived below the international poverty line of $2.15 a day, while over half survived on less than $3.65 a day, the benchmark for lower-middle-income countries. Despite vast oil reserves, the country continues to grapple with high inequality, inflation, and limited access to quality healthcare and education.
At Luanda’s Kikolo market, 39-year-old vendor Adelina shared her frustration: “My life is difficult. I can’t earn enough to buy better clothes, and hunger is wearing us down. We don’t have homes, salaries, or husbands to help.” Youth unemployment remains a pressing concern. The jobless rate among young Angolans stood at 27.9% in 2024, nearly double the 14.5% national average, despite gradual improvements since 2008. “We want jobs and more support for the youth,” said Daniel, a young resident of Luanda. “It’s through the youth that the country can grow.” As Angola turns 50, many citizens are calling for the government to pair national pride with social and economic reform ensuring that the next half-century delivers the prosperity their parents once fought for.
