Angola has recorded a staggering 645 cases of sexual violence against minors in the first six months of 2026, with nearly four cases reported daily. According to Paulo Kalesi, director-general of the Instituto Nacional da Criança (INAC), the country has seen a significant increase in child abuse cases, with 9,072 cases of violence against children reported between January and June. This includes 645 cases of sexual violence, 2,415 cases of physical violence, and 1,010 cases of psychological violence.
The INAC director-general expressed concern over the high number of child sexual abuse cases, revealing that 15% of the perpetrators were pastors or religious leaders who have since been detained. Kalesi noted that some of these abuses took place in places of worship, highlighting the need for churches to reflect on their practices and ensure the safety of children. He specifically mentioned the need for vigilance during events such as vigils and gatherings.
The issue of child sexual abuse was discussed at a symposium on the prevention and combat of child sexual abuse, held in Luanda. The event, promoted by the Ordem dos Pastores Evangélicos de Angola (OPEA) in partnership with INAC, brought together stakeholders to address the growing concern. Dina Emiliana Mayimona, secretary of state for social action, emphasized that child sexual abuse constitutes a serious violation of children's rights and can have long-lasting consequences for their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Mayimona urged that the prevention and combat of child sexual abuse cannot be the responsibility of a single institution, but rather a collective effort. She stressed that behind each statistic lies a child, a family, and a story that demands attention, responsibility, and action. The secretary of state called for cooperation between religious institutions and government agencies to prevent and combat violence against minors.
The symposium, themed "The Role of Religious Ministers in Child Protection and Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse," aimed to raise awareness and promote collaboration between stakeholders. Bernardo Amilton dos Santos, president of OPEA, highlighted the importance of the event, which is expected to produce a declaration of commitment to child protection. He emphasized the need for religious leaders to be trained on child care and protection.
Amilton dos Santos condemned cases of violence perpetrated by religious leaders, stating that such actions are considered crimes and will be sanctioned by OPEA. He called for places of worship to be transformed into safe spaces for children, where they can seek refuge and protection. The OPEA president assured that the organization will take action against members who are found to be involved in such crimes.
According to INAC, Angola recorded 26,024 cases of violence against children in 2025, including 1,028 cases of sexual violence, 1,376 cases of physical violence, and 994 cases of psychological violence. The organization has expressed concern over the rising trend and is working with partners to prevent and combat child abuse. The goal is to create a safe environment for children and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Key points
- Almost four cases of child sexual abuse are reported daily in Angola.
- 15% of perpetrators were pastors or religious leaders who have been detained.
- The prevention and combat of child sexual abuse require a collective effort from institutions and individuals.
