LEO XIV IN AFRICA – Eastern Angola: Plundered Riches, Calls for Autonomy, and Witchcraft
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Luanda (Agenzia Fides) – Eastern Angola, specifically the ecclesiastical province of Saurimo, encompasses the Diocese of Luena in Moxico Province, the Diocese of Dundo in Lunda Norte Province, and the Archdiocese of Saurimo in Lunda Sul Province. This region is exceptionally rich in natural resources, yet the local population sees little to no benefit from these abundancies.
Discrimination and Resource Exploitation
For years, civil society movements have protested against the systemic discrimination faced by the inhabitants of eastern Angola, which includes Moxico, Lunda Norte, Lunda Sul, and Moxico Leste. Despite being home to the nation’s largest diamond reserves and vital agricultural resources, locals describe their region as a “backyard to be exploited,” suffering from severe infrastructural deficits.
Unmet Basic Needs
The people of eastern Angola express discontent over multiple pressing issues: inadequate drinking water, poor road connectivity between municipalities and provinces, unreliable electricity, deteriorating health conditions, high dropout rates among children, and the marginalization of the Tchokwe culture. Such conditions have prompted local voices to call for significant changes.
Autonomy: A Historical Perspective
The Portuguese Protectorate Movement of Lunda Tchokwé (Movimento do Protetorado Português da Lunda Tchokwé, MPPLT), founded in 2006, advocates for autonomy from Angola, citing historical treaties from the late 19th century when Portugal secured control over various tribal regions. The MPPLT claims that the territories it represents were never legitimately part of Angola and were annexed illegally during the country’s independence in 1975.
Calls for Independence and Autonomy
While the MPPLT underscores the right to independence under natural law and through historical treaties, it also mentions the need for autonomy similar to that of Portugal’s Madeira and Azores islands. The dual aim of autonomy and independence remains somewhat ambiguous within the movement.
Cultural and Social Impacts
In an environment marked by poverty and identity struggles, there has been a noticeable rise in “magical practices,” intensifying public disorder. A significant incident occurred on January 30, 2021, during an MPPLT demonstration, leading to violent clashes with police officials. Journalist Rafael Marques de Morais notes that many participants believed that rituals performed beforehand would offer them protection, indicating a blend of culture and belief in supernatural safeguards.
Criticism of Witchcraft Practices
Archbishop of Saurimo, José Manuel Imbamba, has strongly criticized the use of witchcraft, claiming it hampers community development and fosters division among families, thereby undermining progress.
Eastern Angola, with its blend of rich resources and significant socio-political challenges, continues to be a focal point for discussions on autonomy, cultural identity, and community resilience.
