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Political Editor
Angola is in the process of rebuilding and modernising after years of civil strife and is seeking greater social inclusion and national cohesion, the ruling MPLA party says.

Twelve years of peace following the defeat of UNITA rebels led by Jonas Savimbi, Angola has recorded remarkable social and economic progress and the MPLA says it is keen to consolidate peace and well-being of Angolans.

Commemorating the 54th anniversary of the beginning of the Angolan liberation war against Portuguese colonisers on Wednesday, the party, in a statement issued by the Angolan Embassy in Harare, urged Angolans at home and abroad to work together for peace and progress.

“February 4, 1961 is an outstanding example of patriotism, love for country and courage of many of the best sons of Angola, who, in a context of unequal conditions, started the great walk against Portuguese colonialism which culminated in the proclamation of the National Independence of Angola on November 11, 1975,” the party said.

“Fifty-four years after that glorious day, Angola prepares to commemorate forty (40) years of national independence, 27 of which were spent in a war that destroyed the social and economic structures of the country.

“Despite such adversity, under the leadership of MPLA, Angolans preserved the integrity of their homeland and their hard-won freedom.”

The ruling party said the peace prevailing in the country “is ushering a new world and a new life” amidst rebuilding and modernisation.

“As stated President José Eduardo dos Santos, in his New Year message, our country began to change for the better. Families are gradually exercising their roles in society and the cultural, scientific and technical levels of Angolans has increased.

“In the new and pacified Angola there are more children in the schools, more experts and specialists in businesses and administrative institutions more doctors and teachers.

“The economy has also grown and the prestige of the country increased, worldwide,” said the party.

The ruling party said it was committed to the country’s development despite economic challenges occasioned by this year’s significant drop in oil prices.

It urged Angolans and friends of Angola to “remain faithful to the ideals of February 4”, and support Government in its task of solving the problems of the people.