Africa-Press – Angola. Marcolino José Carlos Moco, former Angolan prime minister, said that awarding citizens whose actions have significantly impacted Angola’s history is “symbolic and will lead to national reconciliation and development.”
Marcolino Moco, who served as prime minister from 1992 to 1996, made these comments in an interview after receiving the Peace and Development Medal. The ceremony was led by President João Lourenço and honored individuals who contributed to the struggle for independence, peace, national reconciliation, and economic development.
Marcolino Moco said his award is modest and fair given his contributions to the country’s social, political, and economic development.
“I consider this group of distinguished individuals in the fields of peace and development to be well-deserving,” said Moco, who expressed his satisfaction with the gesture.
He noted that the significance of the 50th anniversary of National Independence celebrations, together with the awards, is the reconciliation and unity of all Angolans.
As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, the government established the Commemorative Medal of Independence.
Since the first ceremony was held on April 4, 2025, several historical figures, many of whom were awarded posthumously, who played key roles in the struggle for Angola’s independence have received medals.
During these ceremonies, President João Lourenço honored several figures, including Cuban General Cintra Frias, who was recognized for his contributions to the struggle for independence.
The 50th Anniversary of Independence Commemorative Medal is made of 24-karat gold to symbolize the nobility and value of the honorees’ contributions to Angolan history.
About the Honoree:
Marcolino José Carlos Moco was born on June 19, 1953, in Chitue, Huambo Province. He graduated from Agostinho Neto University with a degree in law and is a prominent political figure in Angola.
He was the country’s first prime minister after the adoption of a multiparty system and has played several important roles in Angola’s recent history.
He has held several high-level positions, including governor of Bié province (1986–1987), minister of youth and sports (1989–1992), prime minister of Angola (1992–1996), and executive secretary of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) (1996–2000).
Sectors of Angolan civil society respect him as a lucid intellectual and a politician who represented a generation seeking to reconcile the state with democratic values, especially in the 1990s.
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