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Catholic Radio in Angola will not be Compromised by Politicians, Archbishop Says after Huge Government Donation

Radio Ecclesia, the Catholic Radio of Angola, will uphold its mission and values, the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST) has said, underscoring the need for the Church in the southwestern African country to free itself from “partisan perspectives.”

In his address at a ceremony to hand over a building that the government donated to the radio in Luanda, Archbishop José Manuel Imbamba emphasized the station’s commitment to truth and justice, dismissing fears of political interference.

“Radio Ecclesia will remain true to its mission and values. Nothing and no one can influence the broadcaster against its identity. We urge our compatriots to let go of fears and mistrust, embracing unity over division,” Archbishop Imbamba said.

He added, “Radio Ecclesia will always stand for the truth, justice, and the common good. It is crucial to free ourselves from partisan perspectives and build strong institutions that foster unity and development.”

“Our mission is rooted in the Gospel, serving citizens and the nation with integrity, love, and justice,” Archbishop Imbamba said.

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The government’s donation, formalized through a presidential decree, includes a new building located on Rua 16 in Lar do Patriota, Luanda. This initiative followed President João Lourenço’s visit to Catholic Radio in July, where he acknowledged the radio station’s urgent need for better facilities.

“This act encourages us to continue informing with truth, educating citizens, and strengthening institutions to foster growth and development in Angola. It motivates us to ensure our country becomes a place of progress and happiness for all,” the Angolan Catholic Archbishop said.

He noted that the president’s action demonstrates an acknowledgment of the station’s role in fostering critical citizenship and civic responsibility:

"This act of handing over the building is a sign of recognition for Radio Ecclesia’s efforts in promoting citizenship and forming a critical spirit in our country. The donation encourages the continuation of a mission rooted in the values of truth, love, and justice,” Archbishop Imbamba said.

The Local Ordinary of Saurimo Archdiocese reflected on the skepticism that the gift might compromise the broadcaster’s independence, attributing such concerns to the politicized mindset in Angola. 

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“It is important to free ourselves from partisan visions and learn to coexist in diversity. We must build strong institutions that reinforce citizenship and create opportunities for everyone to contribute to the country’s development,” he said.

He reiterated Radio Ecclesia’s mission to “educate, inform, and promote values that elevate human dignity,’, saying, “We serve the citizen, the nation, and the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Announcing the truth with love, charity, justice, and peace will always be our banner to uphold the dignity of the Angolan people.”

Archbishop Imbamba further said, “We are aware of the difficulties we face, but I believe better days will come through our commitment, creativity, imagination, and, above all, our willingness to serve.”

The new facility aims to enhance Radio Ecclesia’s operations, providing improved conditions for its staff and expanding its reach. 

CEAST Secretary General, Bishop António Francisco Jaca expressed gratitude for the government’s support, saying, “This is a happy day for Radio Ecclesia and CEAST. The building will provide better working conditions and support the station’s objectives.”

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However, Bishop Jaca acknowledged the challenges of operationalizing the facility, citing financial constraints 

“The building requires substantial resources to become fully operational. Economic constraints remain a concern, but we hope for improvements that will strengthen the station and support its employees,” the Local Ordinary of Angola’s Benguela Diocese said.

Despite these challenges, Bishop Jaca affirmed Radio Ecclesia’s commitment to its mission, saying, “We are confident this gift will enable Radio Ecclesia to better fulfill its role in informing, educating, and evangelizing. We hope the building’s adaptation happens promptly to provide a dignified and welcoming environment for all professionals.”

He added, “With this new space, we are confident we can address some challenges while continuing to strengthen citizenship and evangelization in Angola.”

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.