22 Killed, Over 1,200 Arrested in Angola Fuel Price Protests

• Jul 30, 2025

At least 22 people have been killed and nearly 200 others injured in Angola following violent protests triggered by a sharp increase in fuel prices, the government confirmed on Wednesday.

The protests, which began on Monday, have spread across the capital Luanda and other cities. Demonstrators clashed with security forces, and police reported incidents of looting and vehicles being damaged during the unrest.

Interior Minister Manuel Homem said the death toll had risen to 22, with many of the fatalities and injuries occurring during confrontations with security personnel. Police spokesman Mateus de Lemos added that more than 1,200 people have been arrested over the last three days in connection with the protests.

The unrest began after the government raised fuel prices by about 30 percent at the start of July. Officials defended the move, saying it was necessary to reduce the country’s mounting national debt. Until the change, fuel had been heavily subsidized in Angola, one of Africa’s top oil producers.

Despite Angola’s oil wealth, most citizens struggle with low incomes and high living costs. According to the World Bank, nearly half of Angola’s population survives on less than $3.61 a day. The new price for a litre of diesel is now 400 kwanzas, or roughly 0.54 U.S. dollars—making basic transportation and goods even less affordable for many families.

The price hike has added to the frustrations of ordinary Angolans who already face high unemployment and widespread poverty. While the government argues that subsidy cuts are necessary for long-term economic stability, many citizens say they are being forced to bear the brunt of austerity measures.

Angola, with a population of about 37 million, is the second-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa. However, much of its population has not felt the benefits of its natural resources due to economic mismanagement and inequality.

As protests continue, the government faces increasing pressure both to address public grievances and to maintain order. Rights groups have called for restraint by security forces and for the government to engage in dialogue with protesters.