João Lourenço is the current President of Angola, having assumed office on September 26, 2017. Born on March 5, 1954, in Lobito, Angola, Lourenço is a notable Angolan politician and military leader. He is a member of the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), a party that has dominated Angolan politics since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975.

Lourenço's early life was marked by political activism and military involvement. He joined the MPLA’s armed wing, the People's Armed Forces for the Liberation of Angola (FAPLA), during the struggle for independence and played a role in the ensuing civil war. After Angola's independence, he continued his career in the military, rising through the ranks and eventually becoming a high-ranking officer. His military background provided a foundation for his subsequent political career.

In the 1980s, Lourenço began his transition from military to political roles. He held various positions within the MPLA, including roles in the party's central committee and the National Assembly. His rise within the party was steady, and by the early 2000s, he was recognized as a significant figure within Angolan politics.

Before becoming President, Lourenço served as Minister of Defense from 2014 to 2017. His tenure in this role was marked by efforts to reform the military and address various issues related to defense and security. His work in this position helped build his reputation as a capable leader and reformer.

In the 2017 presidential election, Lourenço succeeded José Eduardo dos Santos, who had been in power for 38 years. Lourenço's campaign focused on tackling corruption and improving governance, promising to bring a new era of transparency and reform to Angola. His presidency began with a strong emphasis on fighting corruption, which had been a significant issue during dos Santos's tenure.

Lourenço's administration has faced various challenges, including economic difficulties and political opposition. The Angolan economy, heavily reliant on oil, faced downturns due to fluctuating global oil prices, which impacted the country’s financial stability. Despite these challenges, Lourenço has continued to push for reforms aimed at diversifying the economy and improving public services.

Under his leadership, Angola has seen some progress in areas such as governance and economic reform, but issues like corruption and economic inequality persist. Lourenço's presidency represents a significant shift from the long-standing rule of dos Santos, with a focus on modernization and anti-corruption efforts.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo%C3%A3o_Louren%C3%A7o