In a note of condolences, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Filipe Zau, highlights that it was with deep pain and consternation that he learned of Rui Mingas' death, after a prolonged illness.
Zau highlights that, coming from a family of musicians, Rui Mingas, born on May 12, 1939, in Luanda, was influenced by his uncle Liceu Vieira Dias and, in turn, inspired his late brother André Mingas and his daughters Katila Mingas and Ângela Mingas.
“In addition to having composed the National Anthem of Angola with the writer Manuel Rui, this partnership was also notable through the well-known song 'Meninos do Huambo', released in Portugal through the musician Paulo de Carvalho”, highlights the note.
Rui Mingas, 84 years old, was Angola's ambassador to Portugal in the 1990s, having been decorated, on July 26, 1995, with the Order of Infante D. Henrique, which distinguishes those who have provided relevant services to Portugal, as well as services in the expansion of Portuguese culture or for knowledge of Portugal, its History and its values.
Co-author with Manuel Rui Monteiro of “Angola Avante”, the anthem of Angola, Rui Mingas was also an athlete in the 1950s and 1960s, having competed in the high jump and the 110 meter hurdles, achieving a national record for Portugal, in 1960.
