Angola Travellers Guide

Portugese explorers arrived in Angola in the 15th Century, and remained until decolonization in 1975. this however led to the longest civial war in Africa and the loss of approximately half a million people.  A ceasefire was achieved in 2002, and a relative peace has remained since. There is still sporadic fighting in the oil-rich Cabinda province, but generally the peace has held.

WARNING: travel is not recommended within Angola unless on essentail business.  For more information: Click Here

Background

Angola is slowly rebuilding its country after the end of a 27-year civil war in 2002. Fighting between the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), led by Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS, and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), led by Jonas SAVIMBI, followed independence from Portugal in 1975. Peace seemed imminent in 1992 when Angola held national elections, but UNITA renewed fighting after being beaten by the MPLA at the polls. Up to 1.5 million lives may have been lost - and 4 million people displaced - in the quarter century of fighting. SAVIMBI's death in 2002 ended UNITA's insurgency and strengthened the MPLA's hold on power. DOS SANTOS has pledged to hold legislative elections in 2006.

Facts & Figures

Total Area:1,246,700 sq km          
Land Borders: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Namibia, Zambia
Population: 12,127,071                                
Life Expectancy: 39 years             
HIV % Total Poulation:3.9%
Ethnic Groups: Ovimbundu 37%, Kimbundu 25%, Bakongo 13%, mestico (mixed European and native African) 2%, European 1%, other 22%
Languages:Portuguese (official), Bantu and other African languages
President:Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS               
GDP - Per Capita: $3,200