The Silent Hunger: Deadly Protests in Oil-Rich Angola

Unrest and Resentment in Angola: A Nation on the Brink

In parts of Luanda, the capital of Angola, people remain hesitant to discuss the events of July when widespread protests paralyzed the city and sparked disturbances across other provinces. What began as a movement by taxi drivers against rising fuel prices quickly escalated into a three-day period of violence, resulting in at least 30 deaths and thousands of arrests. The unrest saw roads blocked with burning tires, shops looted, and clashes between protesters and police.

This wave of demonstrations marked one of the most significant uprisings since the end of Angola’s civil war in 2002. As the country prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence from Portugal on November 11, the protests have brought attention to persistent issues of poverty, inequality, and governance.

In neighborhoods where the protests were strongest, many residents are reluctant to speak openly, fearing repercussions given the numerous arrests that followed. A 24-year-old street vendor in Luanda, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed his belief that the protests were necessary to "wake up those in power." He works along one of the city's busiest streets, selling soft drinks to support his family. Despite living in a country rich in oil wealth, he and millions of others struggle to make ends meet.

Youth unemployment remains a central issue in this young nation, where the median age is under 16. Official data shows that 54% of 15- to 24-year-olds are unemployed, and only three million of the 18 million working-age youth are employed in the formal sector. This lack of opportunity has led to frustration among the youth, who feel ignored by the government.

For many, the protests were not just about fuel prices but about a deeper sense of injustice. "We needed to make that much noise to show we have a voice," said the street vendor. "People like me deserve a share of the country’s wealth, which is rich for some, but miserable for so many of us."

Sociologist Gilson Lázaro believes the protests were driven by the "dispossessed"—young people with nothing left but their lives. These individuals, often from poorer neighborhoods lacking basic infrastructure, took to the streets without fear. The unrest exposed long-standing social problems that the political elite has chosen to overlook.

The ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) has governed the country for the past five decades. While there was hope that President João Lourenço, who took office in 2017, would bring change, critics argue that his efforts have fallen short. Despite promises to tackle corruption, diversify the economy, and create jobs, the country still faces a high inflation rate of around 18%.

Angolan economist Francisco Paulo points out that while natural resources are valuable, the problem lies in how revenues are used. He suggests that if Angola followed models like Norway or Saudi Arabia, using oil wealth to boost non-oil sectors and develop its workforce, it could be a blessing. However, current spending is seen as wasteful and lacking in value.

Despite some economic growth in recent years, the benefits have not reached most Angolans. A World Bank report estimates that over a third of the population lives on less than $2.15 per day. While the economy is expanding, it is not keeping pace with population growth, leading to increased poverty.

As independence celebrations approach, plans for music festivals, presidential ceremonies, and a football match featuring Lionel Messi are underway. However, many question the unity of the nation. Lea Komba, a 20-year-old political science student, challenges the old socialist slogan "one people, one nation." She argues that the reality is far from uniform, with stark inequalities between different groups.

Komba believes that the authorities must address the root causes of discontent rather than just the consequences. She warns that more unrest may follow, as political awareness grows in Angola. "From now until the 2027 elections, we will likely see more protests," she said. "Elections are seen as a crucial moment for real change."

The situation in Angola highlights deep-seated challenges that continue to affect the lives of its citizens. With youth unemployment, economic inequality, and political frustrations persisting, the country stands at a crossroads. Whether these tensions will lead to lasting change remains to be seen.