Angola’s GDP grew by 3.8% in 2024, driven by oil recovery, but faces challenges like high inflation and political repression. Freedom House ranks Angola as one of Africa’s least free nations due to systematic dissent suppression. President Lourenço postponed a Timor-Leste visit to focus on AU responsibilities. Road accidents caused over 3,000 deaths in 2024 amidst ongoing safety concerns. Jackie Shroyer has been charged with her husband’s murder, awaiting trial.
In 2024, Angola’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) experienced a growth of 3.8%, primarily attributed to a recovery in the oil sector, as reported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the IMF cautioned that budget consolidation efforts are hindered by increasing capital expenditures and sluggish reforms in fuel subsidies. While inflation remains elevated and the Angolan currency has depreciated over 10% against the US dollar, the debt-to-GDP ratio has improved. Looking ahead, the IMF projects a growth rate of 3% in 2025, with expectations of declining inflation due to the resolution of cost pressures.
Freedom House’s “Freedom in the World 2025” report identifies Angola as one of Africa’s least free nations, assigning it a score of 28 out of 100. The report highlights the systematic repression of political dissent, despite President João Lourenço’s initiatives to combat corruption. The assessment states, “Angola has been governed by the same party since independence…and the authorities have systematically repressed political dissidence.” Other Lusophone African nations, such as Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe, have been recognized for their democratic governance.
President João Lourenço of Angola has officially postponed his visit to Timor-Leste due to commitments as chair of the African Union (AU). His role in mediating the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been emphasized as a priority by the presidency. José Ramos-Horta remarked, “the President of Angola has postponed the trip… a great responsibility and a great honour,” acknowledging Timor-Leste’s understanding of the circumstances.
Angola recorded a total of 3,120 fatalities from road accidents in 2024, an increase from 2,915 in 2023, despite a decrease in overall accidents from 13,597 to 12,303. While injuries decreased slightly to 16,282, Luanda reported the highest number of incidents, with 2,650 accidents resulting in 954 deaths. Causes attributed to these accidents include speeding, impaired driving, and poor road conditions, particularly involving motorcycle operators such as moto-taxi drivers.
In a recent legal development, Jackie Shroyer, the wife of murdered American missionary Beau Shroyer, has been charged with murder following her husband’s stabbing in Huila Province in October 2023. The Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) alleges that she orchestrated the crime with accomplices. The couple came to Angola in 2021 for missionary work, with their children currently under the care of relatives while Jackie awaits trial, which is anticipated within six months.
In summary, Angola demonstrates mixed progress with a recovering economy contrasted by political repression and alarming road safety statistics. Economic growth is projected to continue, though freedom remains critically compromised. President Lourenço navigates significant diplomatic responsibilities while addressing internal challenges, exemplified by rising road accident fatalities and legal issues surrounding missionary work in the country.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
