In a significant address at the 3rd Pan-African Forum for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence – the Bienal de Luanda, Angolan President João Lourenço underscored Angola’s active involvement in mediating conflicts within the African continent, with a particular focus on the long-standing turmoil in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
During his keynote speech at the event, which welcomed dignitaries from across Africa, President Lourenço highlighted Angola’s steadfast dedication to peace-making initiatives. He emphasized the role of peace and peaceful coexistence as pivotal to the socioeconomic development of African nations, calling for ongoing educational efforts, especially among young people, to foster and uphold peace as a foundational element for national progress.
Reflecting upon Angola’s past, the President recounted the nation’s own journey of three decades of internal armed conflict following its independence. He noted that these challenging times had yielded invaluable lessons, propelling the nation towards a path of disarmament, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence. This transformation, according to President Lourenço, has been instrumental in steering Angola towards a focus on development and progress.
Addressing the diverse cultural landscape of Africa, President Lourenço acknowledged the richness that cultural diversity brings to societies. However, he warned that misconstruing this diversity could lead to social tension and unnecessary conflicts. He proposed the need to develop new paradigms that elevate respect for diversity as fundamental in building societies more resistant to violence.
The Angolan leader also stressed the importance of incorporating a culture of peace into national development strategies, viewing it as an essential principle rather than merely a concept. He suggested that a culture of peace should promote collective values, respect for differences, and celebrate diversity as a protected wealth, thereby contributing to enhanced social justice, equity, and inclusion.
Highlighting the youthful demographic of the African continent, President Lourenço pointed out the crucial role of the youth in driving change, progress, and the development of creative, innovative societies. He called for policies that address the aspirations and expectations of the young African population.
In his concluding remarks, President Lourenço advocated for concerted efforts to conclusively resolve conflicts in Africa. He called for the initiation of a sustainable development process on the continent, free from constraints. He urged for active involvement from the African Union and international cooperation to address pressing issues, including the situation in Sudan, terrorist activities in the Sahel, and the political upheavals in parts of West and Central Africa.
The Angolan President’s remarks come at a critical time when the African continent faces multifaceted challenges, underlining Angola’s role as a mediator and peace-builder in the region.
