ANGOLA
Date of establishment: November 11, 1975
Brief history:
1455 – The Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão sailed up the Kwanza River, marking the beginning of Portuguese interest in the territory of today’s Angola.
1575 – Portuguese conquistador Paulo Dias de Novais founded Luanda, which became the capital of the Portuguese colony.
1961 – An uprising against Portuguese rule broke out, led by the MPLA (Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola), FNLA (National Front for the Liberation of Angola), and UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola). This marked the beginning of the Angolan War of Independence.
1975 – Angola gained independence from Portugal after 14 years of armed struggle. The MPLA, under the leadership of Agostinho Neto, became the ruling party. Independence was officially declared on November 11, 1975.
1975-2002 – Civil war broke out almost immediately after independence between the MPLA government and opposition forces, mainly UNITA and the FNLA. The conflict was fueled by Cold War dynamics, with the MPLA receiving support from the Soviet Union and Cuba, while UNITA was supported by the United States and apartheid South Africa. The war caused immense suffering for civilians, leading to widespread displacement and destruction.
1991 – A peace agreement known as the Bicesse Accords was signed, leading to the first multiparty elections in 1992. However, fighting resumed shortly after the elections.
1994 – Another attempt at peace was made with the signing of the Lusaka Protocol, but hostilities continued intermittently.
2002 – A definitive peace agreement was signed following the death of UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi. The civil war officially ended, bringing relative stability to the country.
2008 – Angola became a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
2010 – A new constitution was adopted, replacing the semi-presidential system with a presidential system where the President of Angola is also the head of government.
2017 – Long-time president José Eduardo dos Santos stepped down after 38 years in power. João Lourenço, the candidate from the ruling MPLA, won the presidential election and initiated several reforms, including anti-corruption measures.
2020 – Angola continued to face significant economic challenges, exacerbated by fluctuations in oil prices and the global COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted the country’s main revenue source.
International abbreviation: ANG
Currency: Kwanza (AOA)
The Angolan currency is the kwanza, which is divided into 100 cêntimos. The kwanza was introduced in 1977, replacing the Portuguese escudo, and was named after the Kwanza River that flows through the country. The Kwanza is currently the only legal currency in Angola and is issued by the National Bank of Angola (Banco Nacional de Angola).
The kwanza has undergone several revaluations and redenominations. The current version, known as the “Kwanza Reajustado,” was introduced in 1995.
The denominations of coins currently in circulation are 50 cêntimos, 1 kwanza, 2 kwanzas, 5 kwanzas, and 10 kwanzas. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 50 kwanzas, 100 kwanzas, 200 kwanzas, 500 kwanzas, 1,000 kwanzas, 2,000 kwanzas, 5,000 kwanzas, and 10,000 kwanzas.
Internet domain: .ao
Dialing code: +244
Time zone: GMT +1
Geography:
The country is located on the southwest coast of Africa. Angola borders the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Zambia to the east, and Namibia to the south. In the west, it is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. The country has a diverse landscape with highlands, plains, and deserts.
Rivers such as the Kwanza, Cunene, and Cubango (Okavango) flow through Angola and provide a source of water for many of the country’s inhabitants. The Zambezi River flows in the southeast, though it is only a small section of the river within Angola’s borders. The Angolan coast stretches for more than 1,600 kilometers (994 miles). The port of Luanda is the largest in the country, serving as a key hub for international trade, while the port of Lobito is also significant.
The country includes the Bié Plateau, which is a highland region with elevations reaching over 1,500 meters (4,921 feet), providing a cooler climate and fertile land for agriculture. In the south, the Namib Desert extends into Angola, creating arid conditions. Angola’s diverse geography supports a variety of ecosystems and wildlife, contributing to its rich natural heritage.
Highest peak: Morro do Moco 2 620 m a.s.l (8 596 feet above sea level)
It is located in the Angolan Highlands in the southwest of the country. It is a popular place for mountain climbing and hiking. From the top of Morro do Moco there is a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside and the vast expanse of Angola.
Climate:
Angola’s climate is mostly tropical, with regional variations due to the country’s diverse geography. In the north and the Cabinda region, the climate is tropical and humid, characterized by high temperatures and a rainy season from October to April. Average temperatures in these areas range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the wet season and slightly lower during the dry season.
On the Atlantic coast, including the capital Luanda, the climate is also tropical but with a distinct dry season. The coastal areas experience a hot, humid rainy season from November to April and a cooler, dry season from May to October. Average temperatures in Luanda range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F).
In the central part of the country, including the highlands, the climate is more temperate due to the elevation. The highland areas have a rainy season from October to April, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).
In the southeast, the climate resembles that of the savannah, with a distinct rainy season from November to March and milder, drier conditions during the rest of the year. Average temperatures here range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
In the southwestern part of the country, where the Namib Desert extends into Angola, the climate is arid and mild, with very little rainfall throughout the year. The Serra da Leba mountain range in this region experiences cooler temperatures due to its elevation, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F).
Fauna and flora:
The Angolan savannah and national parks are home to African elephants, which are protected from poachers through conservation efforts. Lions are found in some areas of Angola, and their protection is a priority for biodiversity conservation. Leopards, another large feline, also inhabit the Angolan landscape. African buffaloes are common in the Angolan savannah and play an important role in the ecosystem.
Various species of baboons and monkeys inhabit the forests and savannahs. Angola is home to many species of birds, including flamingos, eagles, and pelicans, as well as a rich diversity of other bird species.
In the northern part of the country, there are tropical and subtropical forests that are home to many species of trees, plants, and orchids. These forests support a rich biodiversity, including numerous endemic species.
Most of the territory of Angola consists of savannah with grass and various types of shrubs. Impressive baobab trees grow in some parts of the country, particularly in the southern and central regions. Additionally, Angola’s flora includes a variety of other notable species such as the mopane tree, acacia trees, and various types of succulents.
Agriculture:
A wide variety of crops are grown in Angola, including cereals (maize, millet, and rice), beans, cassava root, sweet potatoes, and coffee. Maize is one of the main crops and forms a staple food in the Angolan diet. In some areas where natural rainfall is not sufficient, irrigation is used to support crop cultivation.
The country is known for its coffee plantations, and coffee is one of the main export products. Regions such as Huíla, Cuanza Sul, and Uíge are renowned for the quality of their coffee. In addition to coffee, Angola also produces other export crops such as cotton, sugarcane, and tobacco.
Livestock breeding, especially cattle and goats, is an important branch of Angolan agriculture. Poultry farming is also common. The livestock sector plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of many rural communities.
Thanks to the vast coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean, fishing has great potential. Fish products provide livelihoods for many coastal communities, and Angola has a growing fishing industry that includes both artisanal and commercial fishing activities. Key fish species include mackerel, sardines, and tuna.
Extraction of natural resources:
The extraction of natural resources in Angola primarily involves oil, natural gas, diamonds, and various minerals. Oil and natural gas are the most significant resources, and their extraction is a major industry in Angola. These resources are extracted from onshore and offshore oil fields, with offshore wells being particularly important.
In addition to oil and natural gas, Angola is a significant producer of diamonds. Diamond mining occurs in various locations, primarily in the provinces of Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul. The country also has deposits of iron ore, phosphates, copper, gold, and bauxite, though these are less developed compared to the oil and diamond sectors.
Forestry is another important industry in Angola, with timber being harvested from the country’s extensive forests. However, this industry is less dominant compared to oil and diamond extraction.
The products of the oil and mining industries are major exports for Angola, generating significant revenue for the national treasury. Oil exports, in particular, account for the vast majority of the country’s export earnings and a substantial portion of government revenue.
Industry:
Angolan industry is relatively small and underdeveloped compared to other countries in the region, but it is growing and diversifying. Important sectors in Angola include the food processing, beverages, cement, steel, textiles, and chemicals industries. The food processing industry is significant due to the country’s agricultural potential, with products such as beverages, dairy, and processed foods.
The chemicals industry includes the production of fertilizers, paints, and basic chemicals, but it also has potential for growth in areas such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The construction materials sector, particularly cement and steel production, is also a key part of the industrial landscape, driven by infrastructure development.
The automotive industry is still in its infancy, with some assembly plants for vehicles, mainly for the local market. The textile industry is small but has potential for growth, focusing on producing clothing and fabrics for both domestic consumption and export.
Additionally, Angola’s wood processing industry utilizes its vast forest resources, producing lumber and wood products. The leather industry is relatively minor but contributes to the manufacturing of shoes and other leather goods.
Services and other areas of the economy: services and transport
Natural and historical attractions: Tundavala, Luanda, Kalandula waterfalls, and Lake Dilolo
Among the most important tourist attractions in Angola are the national parks that offer visitors the opportunity to observe local fauna and flora, such as flamingos, elephants, antelopes, and leopards. The most famous national parks include Quiçama (Kissama), Iona, and Bicuar. These parks provide diverse wildlife viewing opportunities and are key destinations for ecotourism.
Angola also has several historical monuments, such as forts from the period of Portuguese colonization, including the Fortress of São Miguel in Luanda. Additionally, ancient rock paintings can be found in the Tchitundo-Hulo site in Namibe province, showcasing the country’s rich prehistoric heritage.
Luanda is home to several museums, such as the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Natural History, and the Museu Nacional da Escravatura (National Museum of Slavery), which provide insights into Angola’s cultural, natural, and historical heritage.
Other tourist attractions in Angola include its beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast, with popular spots like Cabo Ledo and Sangano offering excellent opportunities for relaxation, fishing, and water sports. Mussulo Bay is known for its fishing, diving, and picturesque scenery.
Visitors can also explore traditional villages and towns, where they can sample local cuisine, learn about traditional culture, and experience the hospitality of the Angolan people. The town of Mbanza Kongo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly notable for its historical significance as the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kongo.
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Form of government: democratic republic
The president of Angola is the head of state and government, wielding broad powers including the right to appoint and dismiss ministers. Angola currently has 32 ministries. The president is elected by direct vote for a five-year term and can be re-elected.
The judiciary in Angola is intended to be independent, as guaranteed by the constitution. However, in practice, the judiciary faces challenges regarding its independence. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country, handling significant legal matters, while the Constitutional Court specifically deals with constitutional issues and resolves disputes between state administration bodies.
Angola is divided into 18 provinces, each headed by a governor appointed by the president. The provinces are further divided into municipalities and communes. The city of Luanda, which is the capital of the country, does not have a special self-governing status but functions as the administrative center of the Luanda Province.
The provincial governors are responsible for running the provincial administration and implementing national policies at the local level. They play a significant role in regional governance but remain under the direct influence of the central government.
Capital city: Luanda
Luanda is located on the west coast of Angola by the Atlantic Ocean. With more than 8 million inhabitants, it is Angola’s largest city and economic center.
Luanda was founded by Portuguese colonists in 1576 under Paulo Dias de Novais and became an important trading center during the 16th and 17th centuries, especially for the transatlantic slave trade. It became the capital of the Portuguese colony of Angola in 1627 and remained so until independence in 1975.
Key sights in Luanda include the Fortress of São Miguel, a historic fort built by the Portuguese in 1576, which now houses the Museum of the Armed Forces. The National Museum of Anthropology offers insights into Angola’s diverse cultures and history. The National Museum of Natural History features exhibits on the country’s rich biodiversity.
The Iron Palace (Palácio de Ferro), reputedly designed by Gustave Eiffel, is another notable landmark. The Mausoleum of Agostinho Neto, a prominent monument dedicated to Angola’s first president, is an iconic structure in the city.
For leisure and recreation, the Ilha do Cabo (Cabo Island) offers beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, while the waterfront area known as the Marginal provides scenic views and is popular for walking and social activities. The Agostinho Neto Cultural Center, a venue for cultural events and exhibitions, also draws visitors.
The city has a population of about 9 650 000.
Area: 1 246 700 km2 (481 354 square miles)
Population: 35 589 000 (2022 estimate)
The largest ethnic groups in Angola are Bantu, who make up about 95% of the population. Among the Bantu, the main subgroups are the Ovimbundu, Mbundu, and Bakongo. Other significant Bantu groups include the Chokwe, Lunda, and Ngangela. There are also smaller ethnic groups such as the Herero and Khoisan-speaking peoples.
Minority ethnic groups in Angola include European and Brazilian descendants, as well as other expatriates, who primarily reside in the capital, Luanda.
The majority of Angolans practice Christianity, with Catholicism and Protestantism being the predominant denominations. There is also a smaller number of Muslims, primarily among immigrant communities from West Africa and the Middle East.
The official language is Portuguese, which was introduced during the period of Portuguese colonization. In addition to Portuguese, several Bantu languages are widely spoken in Angola, including Umbundu, Kimbundu, and Kikongo, reflecting the country’s ethnic diversity.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 1
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- Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo (2017) – M’banza-Kongo, is the capital of the northwestern province of Zaire in Angola. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Kongo from its foundation before the arrival of the Portuguese in 1483 until the kingdom was abolished in 1915, except for a brief period of abandonment during the civil wars of the 17th century.
National parks: 10
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- Quiçama (Kissama) National Park
- Iona National Park
- Bicuar National Park
- Cameia National Park
- Cangandala National Park
- Mupa National Park
- Luengue-Luiana National Park
- Mavinga National Park
- Luando National Park
- Maiombe National Park
