João Lourenço, who was speaking at the opening of the VII Ordinary Congress of the Organisation of Angolan Women (OMA), stressed that the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) will continue to ensure the full and effective participation of women in Angolan economic, social and cultural life, as well as their representation in decision-making bodies.
"In the VI Ordinary Congress of the Party, held in 2016, the participation of women was established at 30 percent, which has evolved to 40 percent. However, in the VIII Ordinary Congress, to be held in December this year, we will reach the gender parity of 50 percent, both for the participation and the representation of women in the composition of the organs and bodies of the Party at various levels," he stressed.
The beginning of the VII Ordinary Congress, which is being held under the theme "Angolan Women: Participation, Inclusion and Development", was also the occasion to salute the "heroic Angolan women", with highlight to Luzia Inglês Van-Dunem "Inga", General Secretary of OMA, to whom João Lourenço acknowledged the "dedication and spirit of mission".
To Joana Tomás, who "accepted the challenge" of being candidate to the position, he wished her "a lot of courage and determination and that she puts all her talent and knowledge to implement OMA's action plan".
João Lourenço expressed the wish that from the Congress comes out a "richer and stronger WCO", marked by "a generational transition in its leadership, necessary for the renewal and vitality that is required in the life of any organization, injecting above all new ideas and the necessary energy to face the present and future challenges".
She also pointed out that Angola has registered progress regarding the insertion and empowerment of women in different spheres, appealing that, despite the constraints imposed by covid-19, congresswomen should be creative "in the search for solutions to increase the full and effective participation of women in decision-making bodies in public life."
"I call your attention to the need for full advocacy of women's causes in all segments, especially the most vulnerable and disadvantaged women, who need greater attention from public authorities and society in general," urged João Lourenço.
The MPLA president also stressed that OMA should pay attention to "important issues where women should have a voice", among which are the development of local power and the local elections, the promotion of literacy campaigns, the diversification of the economy, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy, and programs for the gradual withdrawal of thousands of women from the informal economy.
