By Kennedy Nalyanya
A three-day strike by taxi drivers in Luanda, Angola, has escalated into one of the most widespread and disruptive waves of protest the country has seen in recent years. The demonstrations, which began as a response to rising petrol prices, have drawn thousands of people to the streets, with roads blocked, shops looted, and clashes between protesters and police.
The strike was called by taxi operators in response to the government's decision to raise the price of diesel by over 33%. This move has resulted in higher fares for urban Angolans and increased prices of staple foods and other basics. According to reports, more than 100 people have been arrested, and police have condemned "acts of urban terror," including the destruction of 20 buses.
Local activist Laura Macedo told the BBC that the fuel price issue is "just the last straw that has reignited widespread public discontent." She added that people are fed up, and hunger is widespread, making the poor increasingly miserable.
President João Lourenço has dismissed concerns, stating that protesters are using petrol prices as a pretext to undermine the government. He noted that even after the increase, diesel prices in Angola remain around 40 US cents per liter, one of the lowest in the world.
The protests have drawn attention to the country's economic struggles, with the average monthly wage standing at just 70,000 kwanzas ($75; £56). A promised increase to 100,000 kwanzas has yet to materialize.
State-run media faced criticism for not covering the demonstrations, and local authorities have expressed concern over the events, describing them as "disturbances and acts of vandalism." The situation remains uncertain, with many businesses closed, and it is unclear whether the protests will continue in the coming days.
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