Catholic Bishops in Angola Condemn Alcohol, Drug Promotion Targeting Young People

Luanda, 15 December, 2025 / 3:40 PM

Catholic Bishops in Angola have, in separate homilies on December 14, the Third Sunday of Advent, expressed concern about what they describe as the growing promotion of alcohol and drug abuse among young people.

Bishop Maurício Agostinho Camuto of Caxito Diocese and Archbishop Filomeno do Nascimento Vieira Dias of Luanda Archdiocese warned that such practices threaten moral formation and undermine national efforts to build a responsible and values-driven society.

Bishop Camuto condemned the abusive distribution of alcoholic beverages to young people during a recent political gathering.

Referring to videos circulating from a large event organized by the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) in the Kilamba area of Luanda, Bishop Camuto lamented what he described as an atmosphere dominated by alcohol consumption.

“The images showed beer-dispensing machines and barrels of beer. It became a celebration centered on drinking,” he said during the December 14 Eucharistic celebration that was held at St. Anne Cathedral of Caxito Diocese.

The Angolan member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (CSSp./Holy Ghost Fathers/Spiritans) said the event attracted young people, many of whom were allegedly exposed to excessive alcohol consumption.

“We are trying to remove young people from the paths of alcoholism, drug abuse, and moral decline. Yet the governing party fills public spaces with alcohol and intoxicates the youth. When one group builds, and another destroys, the country cannot move forward,” Bishop Camuto said.

He emphasized that such initiatives contradict ongoing efforts by the Church to educate young people in responsible living and ethical values. 

Bishop Camuto called for coherence among all actors in society, insisting that both political leaders and religious institutions must guide the youth in the same positive direction.

The Catholic Church leader urged young people to remain vigilant and discerning.

“You must know who truly seeks your good and your future. Learn to distinguish between what builds you up and what destroys you,” he said.

He underscored the need for firmness and consistency in life choices. 

Concerns over alcohol and drug abuse were also echoed by the Archbishop Dias at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Luanda

The Archbishop warned against what he described as “false and empty joys,” noting that some pleasures are superficial and fleeting, including those derived from alcohol and drugs. 

While clarifying that drinking alcohol is not sinful in itself, he underscored the importance of moderation and responsibility.