Angolan President João Lourenço announced that Luanda will host an African Union (AU) summit in August specifically dedicated to addressing the surge of conflicts across the continent. Describing peace as a “precious commodity” for African people, Lourenço emphasized the urgent need for mediation in regional hotspots, including Mali, the Sahel, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The announcement came during a state visit by Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who traveled to Luanda for a two-day diplomatic mission. During a joint address at the Presidential Palace, Lourenço warned that the world is becoming increasingly dangerous, citing the Russia-Ukraine war and the crisis in the Middle East as significant threats to global security and the economy.
Angola’s President specifically called for intensified mediation efforts in the Persian Gulf and the unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard international maritime navigation.
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For President Nguema, the visit marks a strengthening of ties following his formal transition to constitutional leadership. After taking power in August 2023, Nguema won the April 2025 presidential elections with nearly 95% of the vote, ending the 55-year Bongo dynasty.
The Gabonese leader expressed a deep interest in mirroring Angola’s economic models, particularly the success of the state oil company Sonangol and Angola’s recent strides in tourism and economic diversification.
Nguema also signaled Gabon’s willingness to participate in the Lobito Corridor, a major infrastructure project he described as a “structuring initiative for a more united Africa.” He praised Lourenço’s leadership within the AU, echoing the sentiment that “African problems must find African solutions.” The two leaders are expected to further their cooperation in the oil, tourism, and agricultural sectors, with Lourenço accepting a reciprocal invitation to visit Gabon in the near future.
