Catholic Women Leader in Angola Highlights Women's Mission, Role in Church and Society as “crucial”

She also noted the active role women play in building the Church, both in its physical structure and in the spiritual formation of communities.

“Women engage in social initiatives, promote religious education, and strengthen Christian solidarity. They contribute to building homes based on Christian values, promoting a more just and dignified society,” Araújo said.

The Catholic Women leader went on to recognize with appreciation the growing presence of women in leadership positions in Angola, including provincial governors, municipal and communal administrators, ministers in different government departments, members of the National Assembly, directors of public and private institutions, and prominent entrepreneurs in key sectors of the country’s economy.

She emphasized the need to foster female entrepreneurship, strengthening women's financial independence and family economy, developing educational and training programs to give more women access to the labour market, encouraging sustainable agriculture to improve food security in communities, and actively participating in the fight for gender equality.

“Women work to strengthen unity among women, encouraging mutual support within the Church and society, as well as engaging in productive activities that aim to improve the quality of life for families and communities,” Araújo said.

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She also acknowledged challenges that Angolan women face in the Church such as a failure to recognize and appreciate women in the ecclesial structure, limited representation in leadership roles and pastoral decisions.

The women leader underscored the need to strengthen the theological and pastoral formation of women to allow greater participation in evangelization and missionary activities.

She also emphasized the need to expand female presence in government bodies and decision-making positions, such as ministries, provincial governments, and municipal administrations.

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