Minibus Taxi Service Resumes in Luanda and Ícolo e Bengo Provinces After Strike

Luanda: The "blue and white" minibus taxi service resumed its usual operations in Luanda and Ícolo e Bengo on Thursday following a disruptive 3-day strike that led to riots and significant limitations on public transportation. According to Angola Press News Agency, the strike commenced on Monday, July 28, and was initiated by taxi drivers, organized in cooperatives and associations, in response to rising fuel prices. The three-day strike saw widespread disturbances, especially in the capital's outskirts, where protesters set up barricades, ignited tires, and engaged in looting, pillaging, and the vandalism of both public and private properties. The unrest extended to Ícolo e Bengo, affecting municipalities such as Calumbo, Sequele, and Catete. These areas experienced clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulting in multiple arrests and injuries. With the strike now concluded, hundreds of taxis returned to service early on Thursday, bringing relief to city residents. Commuters at major city stops expressed satisfaction with the resumption of services. Marta Lourenço, a civil servant from Zango, shared her relief with ANGOP, emphasizing the taxi service's essential role in daily travel. She recounted the challenges faced during the strike, including missing work due to the transportation halt and confrontations between citizens and police. Official reports indicate that the unrest following the taxi service shutdown resulted in 22 deaths, 197 injuries, and over 1,200 arrests.