Angola’s Net International Reserves (NIR) have reached $16.2 billion, sufficient to cover eight months of imports. The figure was announced by President João Lourenço on 15 October during his State of the Nation address to the National Assembly.

“The NIR currently stand at $16.2 billion, ensuring coverage equivalent to eight months of imports,” the head of state said, as quoted by Jornal de Angola. João Lourenço presented the strengthening of reserves as one of the key outcomes achieved between 2022 and 2026, a period during which monetary and financial policy was oriented towards economic stability and the reinforcement of the banking system.

The President attributed these results, among other factors, to the actions of the Banco Nacional de Angola (BNA), whose measures aimed to promote monetary stability, protect international reserves, and bolster confidence in the national financial system.

Financial authorities also sought to broaden access to financial services for households and businesses and to improve financing conditions for economic activity. According to figures presented by João Lourenço, the total amount made available to economic agents more than doubled, rising from $4.7 billion in 2022 to $9.6 billion in May 2026. Financing granted under BNA Notice No. 10 accounted for 16.8% of the total.

The head of state also highlighted reforms to the financial system, including the strengthening of banking supervision and crisis-prevention mechanisms. Among the measures cited was the creation of a Bank Resolution Fund, designed to enhance depositor protection and improve the system’s capacity to respond to financial risks.

The government intends for the reserve build-up and financial reforms to consolidate macroeconomic stability and the country’s financial credibility, and to contribute to attracting productive investment, stimulating job creation, and improving living standards.