Angola: Angolan Archbishop Zeferino Zeca Martins has called on the nation to build peace based on justice and truth as the country prepares to hold its National Reconciliation Congress. The event, organized by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST), is set to take place from November 6 to 9 and forms part of Angola’s 50th independence anniversary celebrations.
Speaking ahead of the gathering, Archbishop Martins, who leads the Archdiocese of Huambo and heads CEAST’s Commission for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, reminded Angolans that peace is more than just the absence of war. He said true reconciliation must come from the heart and must be rooted in justice.
“Peace is not merely the silence of weapons but the reunion of hearts and the meeting of brothers,” he said, urging citizens and leaders alike to seek forgiveness, equality, and fairness as the foundation for rebuilding trust.
The upcoming congress aims to bring together church leaders, government officials, and civil society representatives to reflect on the country’s path since the end of its long civil war and to discuss new ways to promote national unity. Church officials say the meeting will provide a space for honest dialogue on the social and moral challenges facing the country, including corruption, poverty, and political divisions.
Earlier, Archbishop Zacarias Kamwenho, Archbishop Emeritus of Lubango, appealed for divine guidance for the congress, encouraging Angolans to participate with sincerity and openness. Archbishop José Manuel Imbamba of Malanje also invited President João Lourenço to take part, saying the nation needs “a new vision and a renewed spirit of leadership.”
The Catholic Church has played a central role in Angola’s peacebuilding process for decades. In recent statements, the country’s bishops have described corruption as Angola’s “worst misfortune” in the past 50 years and urged authorities to take stronger action against hunger and inequality.
As the nation marks half a century of independence, church leaders see the reconciliation congress as a historic opportunity for healing, justice, and unity. They hope that by addressing deep-rooted injustices and restoring moral values, Angola can move toward a future where peace is both genuine and lasting.