Speaking at the first colloquium on the role of women in the fight for national independence, held by the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women last Saturday (the day on which International Women's Day was celebrated), the First Lady of the Republic addressed the theme "The Achievements of Angolan Women in the 50 Years of Independence".
Quoted in a statement from the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women, to which VerAngola had access, Ana Dias Lourenço pointed out the strong involvement of women in the fight for independence.
"On the occasion, the First Lady stated that the fight for independence relied heavily on the involvement of women such as Deolinda Rodrigues, Irene Cohen, Lucrécia Paim, Engrácia dos Santos, Luzia Pereira Inglês, Maria Mambo Café and many others, who acted as fighters, nurses and organizers of political activities," the statement said.
According to Ana Dias Lourenço, since the beginning of the struggle, women "have demonstrated an unparalleled capacity for resistance and courage", having contributed to building a "free and sovereign" country.
"Since the beginning of the struggle, women have demonstrated an unparalleled capacity for resistance and courage. They were protagonists in the construction of a free and sovereign country, breaking stereotypes and showing that their participation was essential for Angola's independence," she said, quoted in the note.
The First Lady of the Republic also said that, even after independence, "the struggle of women continues to this day, for a fair, egalitarian and inclusive society".
Ana Dias Lourenço pointed out that Angolan women remain on the "front line" fighting for their rights: "Angolan women continue on the front line, fighting for their rights, for gender equality and for the sustainable development of the country."
According to the First Lady, "the growth and strengthening of female participation in Angolan society is undeniable."
Quoted in another note from the ministry, to which VerAngola had access, Ana Dias Lourenço pointed out the fact that women currently occupy leadership positions: "Today, we see women in leadership positions, such as the Vice-Presidency of the Republic, in the Presidency of the Constitutional Court and in the National Assembly, which demonstrates the progress we have achieved over the years."
Among other aspects, the First Lady of the Republic took the opportunity to mention that the fight against maternal mortality and the promotion of sexual health are among the government's priorities. Quoted by Angop, Ana Dias Lourenço added that the growing attention given to the health of Angolan women has significantly impacted the quality of life of women in the country, stating that women have also "played a fundamental role" in the area of health.
As part of the colloquium, the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women paid tribute to more than 25 women who played a fundamental role in the country's fight for independence.
The Minister of Social Action, Family and Promotion of Women, Ana Paula do Sacramento Neto, "reinforced that the colloquium is an opportunity to reflect on the trajectory of Angolan women and recognized their role in society", adding that "women are leaders, educators and strategists, who have always taught three fundamental words: resistance, perseverance and hope".
According to the note from the Ministry, this colloquium reinforced the "need to preserve the memory of national heroines and ensure that their legacy continues to inspire future generations".
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