What Sparked the Deadly Protests in Oil-Rich Angola?

The protests in Luanda, Angola, during July 2023 were a significant outcry against rising fuel prices, leading to violent clashes and highlighting deep-rooted socio-economic issues in the country. The demonstrations, which resulted in at least 30 fatalities and numerous arrests, reflect the growing frustration among the youth regarding unemployment and inequality as Angola approaches its 50th independence anniversary.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Protests erupted in Luanda in July 2023 due to rising fuel prices, resulting in at least 30 deaths.
• Youth unemployment in Angola stands at 54%, with many young people struggling to find formal employment.
• The protests highlighted ongoing issues of poverty and inequality in a country rich in oil resources.
• The Angolan government has been accused of ignoring the needs of its youth and failing to implement promised reforms.
• As Angola prepares for its 50th independence anniversary, there are concerns about potential further unrest leading up to the 2027 elections.

The Context of the Protests

In July 2023, protests in Luanda, the capital of Angola, triggered a nationwide crisis. Initially sparked by a call to action from taxi drivers against an increase in fuel prices, these demonstrations quickly escalated into violent confrontations with police. Over the course of three days, parts of the city were brought to a standstill, while other provinces also witnessed unrest.

The protests underscored a broader dissatisfaction with the government, particularly among the youth, who face staggering unemployment rates and lack access to basic services. The unrest was one of the most significant since the end of Angola's civil war in 2002 and highlighted the ongoing challenges of poverty and inequality that persist in a nation rich in natural resources.

Social and Economic Inequalities

Despite Angola's vast oil wealth, the benefits have not been equitably distributed. A large portion of the population lives in poverty, with more than a third surviving on less than $2.15 per day. This stark contrast between the affluent and impoverished is particularly evident in urban areas, where gleaming skyscrapers stand in juxtaposition to impoverished neighbourhoods lacking basic sanitation and infrastructure.

According to Angolan sociologist Gilson Lázaro, the protests were primarily driven by young people who feel dispossessed and ignored by the government. With a median age of under 16, Angola has a youthful demographic that is increasingly frustrated with the lack of opportunities and representation.

The Youth Perspective

Young people are at the forefront of Angolan protests, with unemployment among those aged 15 to 24 reaching a staggering 54%. The government’s failure to create jobs, coupled with high inflation rates (hovering around 18%), has left many feeling hopeless and desperate. Street vendors, like the 24-year-old who spoke anonymously about his plight, represent a significant portion of the informal economy that struggles to provide a sustainable livelihood.

Political awareness among the youth is growing, and protests have become a means of expressing dissatisfaction with government policies. As 20-year-old political science student Lea Komba noted, protests have become a necessary outlet for young people who feel disregarded by those in power.

Government Response

The Angolan government's response to the protests has been largely dismissive. President João Lourenço, who has been in power since 2017, condemned the demonstrations as acts of irresponsibility, linking them to foreign manipulation. In his address on 1 August 2023, he stated that the protests resulted in mourning and destruction, further alienating the government from the very citizens it is meant to serve.

Critics argue that the government has failed to implement meaningful reforms to address corruption, diversify the economy, and create jobs—promises that have been made but not fulfilled. Francisco Paulo, an Angolan economist, emphasised the need for the country to learn from models like those of Norway or Saudi Arabia, which have successfully leveraged their natural resources to benefit their populations.

A Glimpse into the Future

As Angola nears its 50th anniversary of independence on 11 November, there are indications that the protests may not be an isolated incident. Young people like Komba believe that rising political consciousness will lead to more protests, especially as the country approaches the 2027 elections. The frustrations stemming from poverty, unemployment, and inequality may continue to provoke unrest as citizens call for real change.

The growing awareness of socio-political issues among young Angolans suggests that the current wave of protests could be the beginning of a larger movement, one that demands accountability from the government and seeks to rectify the systemic inequalities that have persisted for decades.

Conclusion

The protests in Luanda serve as a reminder of the urgent need for the Angolan government to address the underlying socio-economic issues that plague its youth. As the country grapples with the aftermath of violence and unrest, the path forward remains uncertain. However, the voices of the young people calling for change cannot be ignored. The challenge now lies in whether the government will listen and take meaningful action to reshape Angola's future.

As Angola prepares to celebrate its independence, the stark realities faced by many citizens must be acknowledged. How will the government respond to the demands for change that are echoing through the streets of Luanda? #AngolaProtests #YouthUnemployment #SocialChange

FAQs

What triggered the protests in Luanda in July 2023?

The protests were triggered by a call from taxi drivers against rising fuel prices, which escalated into widespread unrest due to underlying issues of poverty and inequality.

How many people died during the Luanda protests?

At least 30 people reportedly lost their lives during the protests, with thousands arrested across various provinces.

What are the main socio-economic issues in Angola?

Angola faces significant challenges including high unemployment rates, especially among youth, poverty, and inequality, despite being rich in oil resources.

What has been the government's response to the protests?

The Angolan government has largely condemned the protests, attributing them to foreign manipulation and failing to address the underlying causes of discontent.

What does the future hold for Angola's youth?

With growing political awareness and discontent over socio-economic issues, further protests are anticipated as young people seek change ahead of the 2027 elections.