Luanda: Women from diverse social backgrounds convened in Lobito city, Benguela province, to engage in discussions about sexuality and its impact on marital relationships. This meeting aimed to address issues faced by young couples and promote the consolidation of marriages.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the event, now in its eighth iteration, was organized by Gisela Gourgel. Gourgel emphasized the importance of preparing couples before marriage, suggesting that training, potentially facilitated by churches, could play a crucial role in this preparation. She noted that similar events had been held in other provinces, including Luanda, Huambo, Namibe, and Huila.
Gourgel reported positive participation, although she acknowledged challenges in Huambo and Namibe, where cultural reservations and unfamiliarity with direct, informal discussions were prevalent. Some attendees in these areas opted for private counseling sessions to receive more personalized guidance.
Clementina Faustino, an economist, businesswoman, and couples counselor, was also involved in the event. She stressed the importance of equipping couples with skills to manage various aspects of their relationship, extending beyond sexual matters to include family care and household responsibilities. Faustino argued that personal growth could inspire similar changes in partners, fostering stronger relationships.
These discussions underscore efforts to address marital challenges, emphasizing the role of communication and education in fostering enduring partnerships.
