Angola’s GDP is projected to grow by 3.8% in 2024, despite high inflation and currency depreciation. Freedom House ranks Angola as one of Africa’s least free nations, highlighting political repression. President Lourenço postponed an official visit to Timor-Leste due to AU commitments. Road accident fatalities surged in 2024, with over 3,000 reported deaths. Jackie Shroyer has been charged with her husband’s murder, which adds to the country’s tumultuous atmosphere.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reported that Angola’s economy is projected to grow by 3.8% in 2024, primarily due to a rebound in the oil sector. Despite this positive outlook, the IMF raised concerns about the weakening of budget consolidation efforts, exacerbated by rising capital expenditures. Inflation rates remain elevated, and the Angolan currency has decreased over 10% against the US dollar. While the debt-to-GDP ratio has improved, the burden of external debt service continues to challenge the economy. Looking forward, the IMF anticipates a growth rate of 3% for 2025, coupled with a projected decline in inflation.
According to Freedom House’s “Freedom in the World 2025” report, Angola is categorized as one of Africa’s least free nations, receiving a score of 28 out of 100. The report highlights the systematic repression of political dissent, despite some measures taken under President João Lourenço aimed at reducing corruption. “Angola has been governed by the same party since independence, and the authorities have systematically repressed political dissidence,” the report states. The findings position Equatorial Guinea lower on the scale, while Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe are noted as more democratic among Lusophone African countries.
President João Lourenço of Angola has postponed his visit to Timor-Leste due to his responsibilities as chair of the African Union (AU). The presidency has emphasized that his role in mediating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains a primary duty.
“Unfortunately, the President of Angola has postponed the trip because Angola has assumed the presidency of the African Union, a great responsibility and a great honour,” stated José Ramos-Horta. Future planned visits to Australia and Indonesia by President Lourenço may also be impacted by his AU commitments.
In a concerning rise in traffic safety issues, Angola experienced 3,120 road accident fatalities in 2024, an increase from 2,915 deaths in 2023, although the overall number of accidents decreased. Luanda reported the highest incidents, accounting for a significant share of both accidents and fatalities. Key contributing factors include speeding, the influence of alcohol, inadequate road conditions, and distracted driving. The involvement of motorcycle riders, particularly those operating as moto-taxi services, has been notably high in accident statistics.
Furthermore, Jackie Shroyer, the wife of the late American missionary Beau Shroyer, faces murder charges following her husband’s stabbing in Huila Province last October. The Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) has indicated that she allegedly orchestrated the crime with accomplices. The couple had been engaged in missionary work in Angola since 2021. Their children are currently under the care of relatives, while Jackie Shroyer awaits trial, which is anticipated to occur within the next six months.
In summary, Angola is navigating economic growth alongside significant challenges in human rights and public safety. The IMF forecasts a slow recovery in economic performance, while reports on freedom indicate persistent repression of political dissent. Additionally, the alarming statistics surrounding road safety highlight urgent issues that require attention. Recent criminal cases, including that of Jackie Shroyer, further underline the complexities faced within the country.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
