5. Angola

ANGOLA

 Introduction:

Name and Meaning of Angola 

Angola is a country located in southwestern Africa. It is officially called the Republic of Angola. The name "Angola" comes from the Portuguese colonial rule in the region, which began in the 16th century. It is thought to be derived from the title "ngola" given to the kings of the Ndongo Kingdom, who ruled the region before the arrival of the Portuguese. The name "Ngola" means "king" in the Kimbundu language, which is spoken by many of the people in Angola.

Angola is a nation situated in southwestern Africa, with a populace of around 31 million individuals. It is the seventh-biggest country on the landmass, covering an area of around 1.25 million square miles. Angola is lined by Namibia toward the south, Zambia toward the east, the Majority rule Republic of Congo toward the north, and the Atlantic Sea toward the west. The capital of Angola is Luanda, which is additionally the biggest city in the country.

Angola has a rich history, with proof of human home going back more than 100,000 years. The nation was colonized by the Portuguese in the fifteenth hundred years, and stayed under Portuguese rule until 1975, when it acquired freedom. Angola has a different social legacy, with a blend of native African, Portuguese, and different impacts. The authority language of Angola is Portuguese, yet there are likewise numerous native dialects spoken in the country.

Freedom of Angola 

Angola is a republic with a presidential system of government. The President of Angola is the head of state and government, and is elected by popular vote. The President is assisted by a Council of Ministers, which is responsible for implementing government policies. The National Assembly is the legislative branch of government, and is made up of deputies elected by popular vote. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the work of the government.

Angola has a multi-party system, with several political parties represented in the National Assembly. The ruling party, the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), has held onto power since independence. However, the country has made significant progress in terms of democracy and human rights in recent years, and elections are generally considered free and fair.

Culture and tradition of Angola 

Angola has a diverse and vibrant culture, with a mix of indigenous African, Portuguese, and other influences. The country is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with their own distinct cultural traditions. The Angolan people are known for their love of music, dance, and art, and there are many traditional festivals and events celebrated throughout the year.

Angola has a rich history of oral tradition, with many stories, legends, and folktales passed down through the generations. These stories often feature supernatural elements and are an important part of the country's cultural heritage. Angola is also home to a variety of traditional crafts, such as woodcarving, pottery, and textiles. These crafts are often made using traditional techniques and materials, and are an important part of the country's cultural identity.

Terrain and climate of Angola 

Angola has a varied terrain, with a mix of coastal lowlands, rolling savannas, and highlands in the interior. The country has a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather throughout most of the year. There are two main seasons in Angola: the dry season, which runs from May to October, and the rainy season, which runs from November to April.

The coastal lowlands of Angola are characterized by sandy beaches and mangrove swamps. The savannas, which cover much of the country, are grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs. The highlands in the interior are mountainous, with peaks reaching over 8,000 feet.

Relations with other countries:

Angola has strong relations with a number of countries around the world. It is a member of the African Union and the Southern African Development Community, and has strong ties with other countries in the region. Angola is also a member of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, and has diplomatic relations with a number of countries.

The country has a history of conflict with its neighbors, including a long-running civil war with Namibia and tensions with Congo. However, Angola has made efforts to improve relations with these countries in recent years, and is now working towards peace and stability in the region.

In addition to its regional and international relationships, Angola is also a major player in the oil and gas industry, and has significant economic ties with countries around the world. Oil and gas exports account for a large portion of the country's GDP, and Angola is one of the top oil-producing countries in Africa.

Education in Angola 

Education is a priority in Angola, and the government has made significant investments in the education sector in recent years. Primary education is compulsory and free for all children, and the country has made progress in increasing enrollment rates. However, access to education is still a challenge for many children, particularly in rural areas, and the quality of education is often poor.

The education system in Angola is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary education covers grades 1-7, and is followed by four years of secondary education. Higher education is provided at universities and other institutions of higher learning.

There are a number of universities and colleges in Angola, including the University of Angola, the Catholic University of Angola, and the Agostinho Neto University. These institutions offer a range of degree programs in fields such as engineering, science, business, and the arts.

Health in Angola 

The health system in Angola is facing a number of challenges, including a shortage of trained health professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of funding. The country has a high rate of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, and there are also significant issues with maternal and child health.

The government has made efforts to improve the health system in Angola, including investments in infrastructure and training programs for health professionals. However, access to quality healthcare remains a challenge for many people in the country, particularly in rural areas.

Religion in Angola 

Angola is a predominantly Christian country, with a majority of the population belonging to the Catholic Church. There are also significant numbers of Protestant and Evangelical Christians in the country.

There are also small populations of Muslims, Hindus, and followers of traditional African religions in Angola. The government of Angola is committed to religious freedom, and there is generally a good level of religious tolerance in the country.

Art and literature of Angola 

Angola has a vibrant and diverse arts and literature scene, with a mix of indigenous African, Portuguese, and other influences. The country is home to a number of renowned artists, writers, and musicians, who have made significant contributions to the cultural life of Angola.

Angolan literature has a long and rich history, with a number of notable writers and poets, including Agostinho Neto and José Luandino Vieira. Angolan literature is often influenced by the country's history and cultural heritage, and often deals with themes of resistance, struggle, and liberation.

Angolan art is equally diverse, with a range of styles and influences. Traditional crafts, such as woodcarving, pottery, and textiles, are an important part of the country's artistic heritage. There is also a thriving contemporary art scene in Angola, with a number of galleries and exhibitions showcasing the work of emerging and established artists.

Tourism of Angola

Angola is a country located in southwestern Africa, known for its diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. The country has a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, which is home to several popular beaches, such as the Baía Azul Beach in the province of Benguela. Angola also has a number of national parks and protected areas, such as the Kissama National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, and giraffes. In addition to its natural beauty, Angola has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of museums and historical sites to explore, such as the Museum of Slavery in the capital city of Luanda.

Sports of Angola

Sports are an important part of Angolan culture, with soccer being the most popular sport in the country. The national soccer team, known as the Palancas Negras (Black Antelopes), has participated in several international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. In addition to soccer, other popular sports in Angola include basketball, handball, and boxing. The country has also hosted a number of international sporting events, including the African Games and the Africa Cup of Nations for soccer.

Language and Media of Angola

The official language of Angola is Portuguese, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, there are also a number of indigenous languages spoken in the country, including Kimbundu, Umbundu, and Kikongo. Angola has a number of media outlets, including newspapers, television stations, and radio stations. The state-owned Angola Press Agency is the main news source in the country, but there are also a number of private media outlets, such as the newspaper Jornal de Angola and the television station TPA.

National Wonders of Angola

Angola is home to a number of natural and cultural wonders that are unique to the country. One of the most famous national wonders is the Ruacana Falls, which are located on the Cunene River in the province of Cunene. The falls are a popular tourist attraction and are known for their beauty and power. Another national wonder is the Tundavala Gorge, which is located in the province of Huíla. The gorge is a deep canyon with steep cliffs and is home to a number of rare plant and animal species.

Festivals and Holidays of Angola

Angola celebrates a number of festivals and holidays throughout the year, many of which are based on traditional cultural and religious practices. Some of the most popular festivals and holidays in Angola include the New Year's Day, the International Workers' Day, and Christmas Day. The country also celebrates Independence Day on November 11th, which marks the day that Angola gained independence from Portugal in 1975. In addition to these national holidays, there are also a number of regional festivals and cultural events held throughout the country, such as the N'dalatando Cultural Festival and the Luanda International Film Festival.

Agriculture of Angola

Agriculture is an important part of the Angolan economy, with a significant portion of the population employed in the sector. The country has a diverse range of agricultural products, including corn, beans, rice, and cassava, as well as a number of livestock products, such as poultry, pork, and beef. Angola has a number of initiatives in place to support the development of the agricultural sector, including the National Agricultural Plan and the Agricultural Development Fund. The government is also working to increase access to credit and other resources for farmers and to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Peace of Angola

Angola has a long history of conflict, with a civil war lasting from 1975 to 2002. However, the country has made significant strides towards peace and stability in recent years. In 2002, a peace agreement was signed between the government and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), ending the civil war. Since then, Angola has made efforts to rebuild and develop its infrastructure and economy. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to promote reconciliation and unity, including the National Commission for Social Cohesion and the Peace and Reconciliation Commission. Despite these efforts, there are still challenges to peace and stability in Angola, including ongoing issues with corruption and a lack of access to basic services for some communities.

Country code number of Angola 

The country code number for Angola is +244. This is the number that must be dialed when calling Angola from another country.

National Symbols of Angola 

National animal of Angola

The national animal of Angola is The Giant Sable Antelope

National dress of Angola

The traditional national dress of Angola is known as the "chitenge." It is a brightly colored garment that is worn by both men and women and is often made from printed fabric.

National food of Angola

One of the most popular national dishes of Angola is "muamba de ginguba," which is a stew made with peanuts, palm oil, and various types of meat. Other popular foods in Angola include "calulu," which is a dish made with dried fish and vegetables, and "moamba," which is a spicy chicken stew.

National colour of Angola

The national color of Angola is red. This color is often used in the country's flag and is also associated with the country's history and culture.

National bird of Angola

The national bird of Angola is the palm-nut vulture. This large bird is found in the forests of Angola and is known for its distinctive appearance, with a black body and white head.

National flower of Angola 

The national flower of Angola is the "kapok." This tree is native to Angola and is known for its large, colorful flowers, which can be found in shades of red, yellow, and orange.

National Anthem of Angola

The national anthem of Angola is called "Himno Nacional de Angola." The lyrics of the anthem celebrate the country's history and culture, and it is traditionally played at official ceremonies and events.

Capital City of Angola 

 Luanda serves as Angola's capital. Located on the Atlantic coast of the country, Luanda is a major port city and is home to a large proportion of Angola's population. It is known forits vibrant culture, with a mix of traditional and modern influences.

Population of Angola

According to the latest estimates, the population of Angola is approximately 32 million people. The country has a youthful population, with more than half of the population under the age of 25. Angola has a diverse population, with over 100 ethnic groups and several languages spoken throughout the country. Portuguese is the official language, but many people also speak Bantu languages such as Kikongo and Umbundu.

Currency of Angola

The Kwanza is Angola's official money (AOA). The kwanza is divided into 100 centavos. There are coins in denominations of 10, 50, 100, and 200 kwanzas, as well as banknotes in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 kwanzas. The kwanza is pegged to the US dollar, and foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices throughout the country.

Time Zone of Angola

Angola is in the West Africa Time Zone (WAT), which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). 

Daylight Saving Time is not observed in Angola.

Geographic Coordinates of Angola

Angola is located in southwestern Africa, with a long coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. The country is bordered by Namibia to the south, Zambia to the east, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the north. The capital city of Angola is Luanda, which is located at 8.839° S, 13.234° E.

Geographic Area of Angola

Angola is the seventh-largest country in Africa, with a total area of approximately 1.25 million square miles. The country is mostly flat, with a few low-lying areas along the coast and a central plateau. Angola has a varied climate, with a hot and humid coastal region, a dry and hot central region, and a cooler, wetter highland region in the northwest.

Government of Angola

Angola is a presidential representative democratic republic, with a president serving as both the head of state and head of government. The president is elected by popular vote for a five-year term, and is eligible for re-election.The 

A vice president and a ministerial cabinet support the president. The country's parliament is the National Assembly, which is made up of 220 members elected for four-year terms. Angola has a multi-party system, with several political parties represented in the National Assembly. The legal system in Angola is based on Portuguese civil law, with some influence from traditional African legal systems. The highest court in the country is the Supreme Court, which is responsible for interpreting the constitution and overseeing the judicial system.

Economy of Angola

Angola is a country located in southwestern Africa. Its economy is heavily dependent on the production and export of oil, which accounts for more than half of its GDP. The country is also rich in other natural resources such as diamonds, iron ore, and copper, which contribute to its economic growth. However, the country has faced significant challenges in recent years due to falling oil prices, a decline in foreign investment, and corruption. In addition, the country has a high level of income inequality, with a large portion of the population living in poverty.

To address these challenges, the government of Angola has implemented economic reform measures, such as devaluing its currency and reducing subsidies. It has also sought to diversify its economy by investing in infrastructure and encouraging the development of non-oil sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Despite these efforts, the country's economy remains vulnerable to external shocks and will require continued reform and investment to sustain long-term growth.

Internal Relations of Angola

Angola is a diverse country with a complex history. It has a wide range of ethnic and linguistic groups, and the country has experienced significant social and political tensions in the past. Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975, Angola has been marked by civil war and political instability. The country underwent a period of peace and reconstruction following the end of the civil war in 2002, but tensions have continued to flare up in recent years.

One source of tension in Angola is the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of a small elite. This has led to widespread corruption and a lack of transparency in government, which has fueled social discontent and protests. The government has taken steps to address these issues, including implementing anti-corruption measures and increasing transparency, but more needs to be done to ensure that all citizens have access to opportunities and justice.

Military of Angola

Angola has a large military, which is responsible for the country's defense and security. The military is composed of the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA) and the National Police (PN). The FAA is made up of the army, navy, and air force, and it is responsible for protecting the country's borders and territorial integrity. The PN is responsible for maintaining law and order within the country.

The military has played a significant role in Angola's history, particularly during the civil war. It has also been involved in peacekeeping efforts in other countries in the region. However, the military has faced criticism for its human rights record and has been accused of abuses such as torture and extrajudicial killings. In recent years, the government has made efforts to reform and modernize the military, including training and professionalization programs.

GDP of Angola

Angola has a GDP of approximately 135.56 billion, according to World Bank data. The country's economy is heavily reliant on the production and export of oil, which accounts for more than half of its GDP. However, the country has faced challenges in recent years due to falling oil prices and a decline in foreign investment. In addition, Angola has a high level of income inequality, with a large portion of the population living in poverty.

To address these challenges, the government of Angola has implemented economic reform measures and sought to diversify its economy by investing in infrastructure and encouraging the development of non-oil sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Despite these efforts, the country's economy remains vulnerable to external shocks and will require continued reform and investment to sustain long-term growth.