Luanda, 13 November, 2025 / 2:04 pm (ACI Africa).
The Executive Secretary of the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST) has described the recent National Reconciliation Congress as a “historic moment of hope and renewed commitment” by Angolans to peace and national unity.
In an interview with ACI Africa on Wednesday, November 12, following the November 6–9 event, which formed part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of Angola’s independence, Fr. Celestino Epalanga said the gathering reflected the country’s determination to heal the wounds of its past.
“We are deeply grateful to God for the success achieved, for the strong participation of all sectors of society, and for the spirit of unity that guided the congress. It was a moment of hope and reaffirmation of our shared commitment to national unity,” Fr. Epalanga told ACI Africa.
He expressed appreciation to civil and religious authorities who supported the initiative, especially CEAST and all Dioceses of Angola, noting that the meeting brought together representatives of political parties, professional associations, academic institutions, and faith communities.
The congress featured prominent speakers such as Isaías Samakuva of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) and Higino Carneiro of Angola’s ruling party, the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), both former combatants who shared reflections on forgiveness and dialogue as foundations for lasting peace.
