Fact 1: Angola is Named After a King
The name "Angola" itself originated from the title of the ancient Ndongo kingdom’s ruler, who was known as the "Ngola." The Portuguese colonizers transliterated the word, and so the country became known as Angola.
Fact 2: It Has a Unique Mixture of African and Portuguese Culture
Having been a Portuguese colony for over 400 years, Angola's culture has a strong Portuguese influence. This blend is evident in architecture, food, music, and language, with Portuguese being the official language. The local cuisine also features many Portuguese tastes, including the famous dish "bacalhau" (dried, salted cod), amongst others.
Fact 3: One of the Largest Producers of Oil in Africa
Angola ranks as Africa's second largest oil producer, just after Nigeria. They are responsible for more than 9% of the global oil supply. This resource has greatly contributed to Angola's promising economic growth post-civil war.
Fact 4: A Land of Possibility for Giant Sable Antelopes
Giant Sable Antelopes are unique to Angola. Once thought to be extinct due to civil war and extensive poaching, they are now protected and treasured as a national symbol.
Fact 5: It's the Home of the World's Oldest Known Shipwreck
The world’s oldest shipwreck, dated back to the 16th century, was found off the coast of Angola. This ship is considered the earliest known vessel of the global maritime trade.
Fact 6: It has the Most Expensive City for Expats
Luanda, the capital city of Angola, took the top spot as the world's most expensive city for expatriates in the Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for several consecutive years, overtaking Hong Kong and Tokyo.
Fact 7: The Birthplace of Kizomba
Angola is the birthplace of Kizomba, a popular African dance style known for its romantic and sensual moves driven by catchy rhythms and beats of zouk music.
Fact 8: Angola has Empowerment Rocks
The iconic Tunda Vala Fissure in Angola is a volcanic depression located between Lubango and Namibe. This site has become symbolic to Angolans as it represented the struggle and emergence of local people during the civil war.
Fact 9: The Land of Ghost Towns
Angola's southwestern coast is home to numerous deserted towns, the remnants of the diamond rush era, which have now become popular tourist attractions.
Fact 10: It's a Nation of Festivals
Angolans love festivals! The most significant one is the Carnival of Angola, where hard work and creativity of locals are showcased in vibrant costumes, floats, and street dancing during three days of festivities.
Fact 11: Angola has a Unique Currency
The Angolan currency, kwanza, cannot be imported or exported. Travelers have to exchange their currency on arrival and spend all of it because they can't take it with them when they leave.
Fact 12: Angola's Flag Has Powerful Symbolism
The Angolan flag combines the color symbolism of many African nations with central imagery of a machete and gear, representing the country's history in agriculture, industry and armed struggle.
Fact 13: It's a Cradle of Prehistoric Life
A tremendous amount of prehistoric life’s fossils have been found in Angola, including dinosaurs and ancient whales; this makes it a hot spot for paleontologists around the world.
Fact 14: Known for its Rare Minerals
Apart from oil, Angola is rich in various minerals including diamonds. It's one of the primary producers of diamonds in the world and is especially known for its high-quality gems.
Fact 15: It's one of the World's Largest Coffee Producers
Before the civil war, Angola was the fourth largest coffee producing nation in the world. Production has been slowly increasing again as peace and stability continue to improve.
Fact 16: The Kissama National Park
Kissama National Park, located 70 kilometers south of the capital Luanda, is a testament to the country's vast wildlife diversity. It houses endangered species found nowhere else in the world.
Fact 17: It Has One of the Highest Infant Mortality Rates
Unfortunately, Angola has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world. It's something the government and international organizations are cooperatively working on to combat.
Fact 18: Angola's Music is a Blend of Styles and Traditions
Angolan music represents a fusion of traditional African rhythms with Portuguese influences. A variety of styles such as semba, samba, kizomba and kuduro trace their roots back to Angola.
Fact 19: It Was the Last African Country to Gain Independence
Angola was one of the longest-held African colonies, gaining its independence from Portugal only on November 11, 1975. The harsh struggle for independence is deeply etched in the history and psyche of the Angolan people.
Fact 20: Angola's Population is Young
Angola’s population is very young, with most of its citizens not reaching their 20th birthday. Over 60% of the population is under 25, making it quite a vibrant and youthful nation. This fact speaks volumes about the potential of its workforce, promising a bright future if its youth potential is well-harnessed.