Angola's New Generation: Free from Colonial Scars, Focused on the Future

Angola's Youthful Shift in Perspective

Angola is marking 50 years since the end of its colonial era on November 11, with a striking demographic: 60% of its 35 million people are under 25 years old. This young majority appears to hold few resentments towards Portugal, the former colonial power.

A Pragmatic Outlook

At this half-century milestone, the younger generation prefers to accept history as part of their national identity, rather than erasing the past to define the present. Sociologist David Boio explains that the country doesn't need to forget its colonial history to affirm its current self.

Journalist Borralho Ndomba emphasizes that "the generation born free has no colonial scars". Instead, they are driven by dreams and a sense of urgency to see those dreams fulfilled. This shift reflects a connection that is less emotional and more pragmatic, with Portugal no longer viewed as the colonizer but as a "plan B" for social life.