Mnangagwa in Angola for 50th Independence celebrations

President Mnangagwa is today joining fellow Heads of State and Government in celebrating Angola's 50th Independence Anniversary, a milestone event marking half a century since the southern African nation gained freedom from Portuguese colonial rule.

The President's attendance underscores the long-standing bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Angola - ties deeply rooted in their shared liberation struggles. Angola played a crucial role in supporting Zimbabwe's war for independence, providing bases and logistical backing to freedom fighters during the 1970s.

Both nations' ruling parties - Zanu-PF and Angola's People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) - remain among southern Africa's enduring liberation movements, continuing to implement policies grounded in sovereignty and people-centred development.

Confirming the visit, Zimbabwe's Ambassador to Angola, Dr Thando Madzvamuse, said the event holds great symbolic and historical significance.

"His Excellency, the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, will be joining fellow Heads of State and Government for Angola's 50th Independence Anniversary. Angola gained its independence from Portugal in 1975 after a protracted liberation struggle. Unfortunately, it endured decades of civil war thereafter, so this milestone carries deep meaning," said Ambassador Madzvamuse.

He noted that Zimbabwe and Angola enjoy excellent relations, which have continued to flourish since 1975.

"After its independence, Angola wasted no time in establishing bases for Zimbabwe's liberation forces. Our political and historical ties remain strong," he said.

Vice President Kembo Mohadi visited Angola two months ago to pay tribute at liberation shrines where over 400 Zimbabwean fighters are believed to be buried.

"We are excited by the good bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Angola, and His Excellency's visit comes at a very opportune time," Ambassador Madzvamuse added.

Angolan President João Lourenço, in his State of the Nation Address last Wednesday, said the golden jubilee was an opportunity to reflect on Angola's journey - celebrating achievements while acknowledging the struggles endured.

"The 50th anniversary will be a moment to honour both the high and difficult moments of our history, the lessons we learnt and the conquests we achieved together," President Lourenço said.

Both Zimbabwe and Angola are members of SADC and the African Union (AU), where President Lourenço currently serves as AU chairperson.

As part of the continental community, the two nations continue to work towards Africa's Agenda 2063, the AU's vision to transform the continent into a global powerhouse through unity, industrialisation and shared prosperity.