This will be the second ceremony to award medals in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of National Independence, which are divided into two categories: the Independence class, which recognizes the contribution of historical figures in the fight against colonialism and in the foundation of the State, and the Peace and Development class, which distinguishes the role of citizens in consolidating peace and building the country.
Among those honored in the Independence class, the writer Pepetela (Artur Pestana), who was also an MPLA guerrilla, stands out; the singer Bonga, one of the best-known voices in Angola; the archbishop emeritus of Lubango and mediator in the peace process, Zacarias Kamwenho; the musician Waldemar Bastos (now deceased), who lived in Portugal and promoted Angolan music internationally; and Luandino Vieira, a writer who was also persecuted by the colonial regime.
In the Peace and Development class, personalities from culture, sport and civil society will be recognized, including José Eduardo Agualusa, an internationally awarded writer; Paulo Flores, one of the most popular singers in Angola; human rights activist Rafael Marques de Morais; Pedro Mantorras, former Benfica footballer; Eduardo Paim, known as the “father” of kizomba; and Marcolino Moco, former prime minister.
There is still no date set for the delivery of the decorations.
This second round of honors — with 252 honorees in the Independence Class and 445 in the Peace and Development Class — comes months after a controversial first ceremony, marked by the exclusion of Jonas Savimbi (UNITA) and Holden Roberto (FNLA), central figures in the country's fight for independence.
The first ceremony was marked by the absence of some of those decorated, including the former president of UNITA, Isaías Samakuva, the nationalists José Samuel Chiwale, Ernesto Mulato and Miraldina Jamba, also from UNITA, and the former first lady, Maria Eugênia Neto.
The cycle of awards will continue in the coming months, with new ceremonies scheduled until the end of 2025.
