The Southern African country rich in natural resources, Angola, officially the Republic of Angola, is the 7th-largest country in Africa. After decades of political pandemonium, it is now one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and Africa’s booming tourist hub. Here are some mind-blowing facts!
1. Located on the west coast of Southern Africa, Angola is surrounded by Namibia to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Zambia to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
2. Cabinda is the enclave province of Angola, which means that it’s an independent region completely surrounded by Angola, and hence a disputed territory.
3. Situated on Angola’s northern Atlantic coast, Luanda is the country’s capital and largest city. It’s also its most important port as well as its primary industrial and cultural center.
4. Luanda is sometimes referred to as the “Paris of Africa”. The city’s rather sophisticated culture and vibrant atmosphere is very welcoming for tourists.
5. If you’re an expat living in Luanda, the city will turn out to be the most expensive city in the world for you. A humble apartment in the city can cost you up to 10,500 USD+ per month, which can really burn a big hole in your wallet.
6. In the entire sub-Saharan Africa, Angola is the 2nd-largest producer of oil and diamonds.
7. From the 16th to 20th century, Angola was a Portuguese colony. After becoming independent in 1975, a civil war erupted in the country that lasted till 2002. It completely shattered Angola’s economy.
8. Post the civil war, Angola’s economy is on a rise; in fact, it is one of the fastest growing ones in Africa. However, the country’s life expectancy is among the world’s lowest and its infant mortality rate is among the world’s highest.
9. Angola is one of the youngest countries in the world. Over 70% of the country’s population is below the age of 24.
10. Semba, the traditional dance style of Angola, is believed to be the one from which Brazilian Samba has originated.
11. The dreadlocks hairstyle is arguably believed to have originated in Angola.
12. Until 2004, the Giant Sable Antelope was believed to be extinct from the world. However, in 2004, it was discovered that the species is, in fact, endemic to Angola and is still very much in existence.
13. One of the largest waterfalls in Africa by volume and width, the Ruacana Falls, are located in Angola.
14. Tipping in Angola is not very common; however, if you do decide to tip as a tourist, it need not be always in cash. Cigarettes, for instance, are a popular form of tipping in the country.
15. Portuguese is the official language of Angola; however, Bantu is also widely spoken in the country.
16. If you’re strolling near any government building in Angola, make sure you’re not using any cameras, maps, GPS equipment, or binoculars anywhere near it. It is illegal to do so and might be charged with a hefty fine if you happen to violate this law.
17. Angola boasts some lip-smacking food. Most of the country’s dishes are stew based, with the most common ingredients being rice, beans, chicken, pork, fish, sweet potato, tomatoes, and okra cooked in various sauces.