Angola’s GDP grew by 3.8% in 2024, driven by oil recovery, but faces challenges like inflation and governance. It ranks low in freedom, with ongoing political repression. Road accidents claimed over 3,120 lives in 2024. A missionary’s wife has been charged with his murder, highlighting social issues in the country.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that Angola’s economy has experienced a 3.8% growth in 2024, primarily due to a recovery in the oil sector. However, the IMF cautions that the government’s efforts in budget consolidation are being undermined by rising capital expenditures and sluggish reforms in fuel subsidies. The Angolan currency has also depreciated by over 10% against the US dollar, with a projected 3% growth for 2025, contingent on decreasing inflation and other risks affecting the economy.
According to Freedom House’s “Freedom in the World 2025” report, Angola is among the least free nations in Africa, scoring only 28 out of 100. The report highlights the government’s systematic repression of political dissent, despite recent anti-corruption initiatives under President João Lourenço. Since taking office in 2017, Lourenço’s administration has attempted to address endemic corruption and improve press freedom, yet substantial governance and human rights challenges remain, as reported by Angola24horas.
President João Lourenço has postponed his trip to Timor-Leste, citing his role as chair of the African Union (AU). His focus remains on mediating the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. José Ramos-Horta, the President of Timor-Leste, acknowledged this postponement as an understanding of the responsibilities that come with Lourenço’s AU presidency, indicating that prior planned engagements may also be affected, according to Novo Journal.
In terms of road safety, Angola reported 3,120 fatalities in road accidents throughout 2024, an increase from 2,915 in the previous year, despite a reduction in total accidents from 13,597 to 12,303. The capital, Luanda, accounted for the largest share with 2,650 accidents leading to 954 deaths. Contributing factors include speeding, driving under the influence, poor road conditions, and distractions from mobile devices. Motorcycle operators, particularly moto-taxi drivers, were significantly involved in these incidents.
In a serious criminal case, Jackie Shroyer has been formally charged with the murder of her husband, American missionary Beau Shroyer, killed in Huila Province in October 2023. The Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) claims that she orchestrated the crime involving hired assistance. The couple had been in Angola since 2021 for missionary work with SIM, and their children are currently under the care of family as Jackie awaits trial, expected within six months.
Angola’s economy shows signs of growth, but significant challenges such as inflation and governance issues remain. The country is ranked low in terms of personal freedom, reflecting ongoing political repression. Road safety statistics reveal an alarming number of fatalities despite an overall decrease in accidents. Additionally, a high-profile murder case underscores the serious social issues present in the nation.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
