Why did Portugal rename its African colonies overseas provinces in 1951?

In 1951, Portugal redefined the status of its African colonies as "overseas provinces" primarily to avoid international criticism of its colonial policies. Following World War II, as nationalist movements gained momentum across the continent and other European powers began the process of decolonization, Portugal sought to deflect pressure by rebranding its territories.12

Despite this administrative change, the African population did not view the reclassification as a meaningful shift in their status, and the move failed to quell the growing desire for independence.12