Progress comes when we invest in the potential of our people, especially women and youth. By equipping them with knowledge, resources, and support, we build a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and full of opportunity.
H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço
THE FIRST LADY OF ANGOLA
Her Story
Her Excellency Ana Dias Lourenço, born on April 13, 1957, in Luanda, Angola, is a distinguished economist and politician with a long-standing commitment to social progress and economic empowerment. She earned her degree in economics from Agostinho Neto University and served as Angola’s Minister of Planning from 1999 to 2012, where she played a key role in shaping the nation’s economic policies. In 2017, she became First Lady following her husband João Lourenço's election as President. Her extensive experience in public service and finance has profoundly influenced her initiatives as First Lady, with a focus on sustainable development and uplifting vulnerable communities.
Empowerment and Impact
First Lady Ana Dias Lourenço has significantly advanced women's empowerment and social development in Angola. In August 2024, she launched the "We Are All Equal" campaign, focusing on education for gender equality and combating violence against children and adolescents. This initiative aligns with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development's goals and emphasizes the importance of collective action in promoting gender equality.
In 2020, she established the Ngana Zenza Foundation, named in honor of her mother, to promote community development and improve living conditions, particularly in rural areas. The foundation's projects include mobile health clinics, programs for the elderly, and integrated community development initiatives.
Ana Dias Lourenço's efforts have been recognized internationally. In September 2024, she was honored in New York for implementing the "We Are Equal" campaign in Angola and its positive societal impact.
Through these initiatives, Ana Dias Lourenço continues to make a lasting impact on Angola's social fabric, promoting equality, health, and community development.
Initiatives and Involvement
As First Lady, Ana Dias Lourenço leads various impactful initiatives that address health, education, and economic opportunity:
- Health Advocacy: She focuses on improving maternal and child health, promoting vaccination campaigns, and increasing healthcare access, particularly in underserved regions.
- Education and Youth Development: Committed to preparing Angola’s next generation, she supports initiatives to improve educational access, provide scholarships, and develop skills training programs for youth entering the job market.
- Economic Opportunity Programs: Leveraging her background in economics, Ana Dias Lourenço champions programs that foster entrepreneurship and financial literacy, particularly among women. Her efforts include partnerships with microfinance institutions to support small businesses and rural enterprises, helping build economically resilient communities.
Awards and Recognition
Ana Dias Lourenço’s impactful work has been recognized both in Angola and internationally:
- Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry – Presented by Portugal in 2018 for her dedication to public service and fostering international cooperation.
- Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit – Awarded by Spain in 2023 in recognition of her commitment to social progress and her work in building strong bilateral relations.
Personal Life
H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço is married to President João Lourenço, and they have six children. Known for her humility and grace, she values family life and enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. Multilingual in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, Ana Dias Lourenço brings a global perspective to her role as First Lady. Her experiences in public service and international development have shaped her approach to leadership, emphasizing resilience, community-driven solutions, and the importance of equality for all Angolans.
Support for the Women's Prosperity Alliance
H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço is a powerful advocate for the Women's Prosperity Alliance, where she uses her expertise in finance and public service to drive initiatives that promote women's economic independence across Africa. Her support for the Alliance is rooted in her belief that women are key to sustainable development, and she actively encourages programs that provide women with access to financial resources, business training, and networks. As an influential member of the Alliance, she has helped secure partnerships that bring essential tools and opportunities to women-led enterprises, positioning women as central contributors to Africa’s prosperity.
Ngana Zenza Foundation
The Ngana Zenza Foundation, established by H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço and named in honor of her mother, is dedicated to enhancing community development and improving living conditions, particularly in Angola's rural areas. The foundation focuses on addressing essential needs in healthcare, education, and social welfare, aiming to uplift underserved communities. One of its notable initiatives includes mobile health clinics, which bring medical services to remote regions, improving access to healthcare for those who need it most. Additionally, the foundation supports elderly care programs and provides vocational training to equip individuals with skills for sustainable livelihoods. The Ngana Zenza Foundation reflects Ana Dias Lourenço’s commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that all Angolans have the opportunity to thrive.
