Luanda — The chief of Staff of Angola Navy (MGA), Augusto da Silva Cunha "Gugú", said Monday in Luanda that the country's Independence, proclaimed on November 11, brought various political and social changes to the African continent.

The officer was speaking at a talk on the "Importance of November 11, 1975", that took place in Luanda's Naval Base.

According to him, Angola's Independence paved the way for the liberation of Zimbabwe and Namibia and to the end of the apartheid regime in South Africa, including political changes in Zaire, currently Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

"Angola's Independence was not offered. It was conquered on the battle fronts, in cities, villages and jails, where discontented Angolans confined themselves to fight with weapons in their hands or with other means and methods, for the cause of everyone," he stated.

In his address, adm. Augusto Cunha, spoked of battles fought in other parts of the country, particularly in Kifangondo (Luanda), where Angolans with other interests, supported by mercenaries, attempted to impede the proclamation of independence by nationalist António Agostinho Neto, dawn on November 11.

He stated that thanks to the courage of Angolans and the support from their friends, itswas possible the conquest of self-determination and maintenance of the sovereignty of the country.

On the other hand, he regretted the armed conflict that erupted in Angola afterwards which, he added, impeded for years the full realisation of the aspirations of the people.

To him, many things failed to be done because of the destruction of infrastructures and the death of thousands of Angolans.

He stated that in six years of peace, Angola has reached a growth that astonished the international community and led to the reinforcement of national reconciliation.

He said as well that Independence has brought such benefits as freedom and dignity, end of social injustice, equality among Angolans and massive training of personnel in the various fields of science.

To adm. Cunha, the 33rd anniversary of the National Independence, on Tuesday, should be a moment for reflection on the history of Angola and a homage to all those who fought the liberation war, many of whom now dead.