11 Facts About Angola

Angola Flag Map (credit: pixabay)

Allow us to face it, whenever you are thinking about your ideal getaway or reviewing world history, Angola most likely not the first nation that immediately comes to mind. I put Angola in the "I will Google it in the future" list for a long time. However, when I eventually did, I was amazed by what I discovered. Angola is more than simply a nation; it is made up of narratives, hardships, and breathtaking distinctions. Angola deserves more of the spotlight because of its dance music genre, which might shake up your playlist, and its waterfalls, which match those of Niagara. Prepare yourself to experience that pleasant mixture of amazement and engagement if you have had no prior knowledge of Kuduro or were unaware that Angola previously had the world's fastest-growing economy. Allow us to examine 11 amazing facts about Angola that may cause you to reconsider what you previously believed.

1. Angola Has One of The Youngest Populations in The World: The majority of Angolans, more than 60%, are under 25. That is a window into the future of the nation, not simply a number. There is youthful vibrancy all around you as you move around Luanda's streets. The air is filled with activity and aspiration from entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and Kuduro dance battles like those on TikTok. However, youth also bring challenges on employment, healthcare, and education. It is similar to possessing a Ferrari engine but no roadway yet.

2. Angola Was a Major Hub of The Atlantic Slave Trade: Millions of Africans were taken away from Angola to Brazil between the 16th and 19th centuries. In the transatlantic slave trade, it was one of the biggest ports. Just picture being pulled away from the heritage that is so rich in your birthplace. It is difficult to even think about. Angola's historical scars continue to be evident presently in its language, music, and communal remembrance. To fully understand the detailed nature of its current state, we must have an extensive awareness of this past.

3. Angola’s War Lasted Longer Than Its Independence: In 1975, Angola became independent of Portugal. However, it was drawn into a terrible 27-year civil war that kept going until 2002 in place of peace. Think about it: a whole generation was raised in war. Physical and psychological wounds from the conflict continue to influence infrastructure, growth, and public confidence in the government. However, the way Angolans are rebuilding gradually is encouraging.

4. Angola Has a Unique Genre of Music & Dance Called Kuduro: Kuduro, the high-octane Angolan response to techno, house, and traditional sounds, was born on the streets of Luanda in the 1980s. It is quick, honest, and attitude-filled. If a nation's essence is reflected in its music, Kuduro is a reflection of both disorder and resiliency. Kuduro is like a traditional African drum circle combined with a warehouse party. Additionally, it is more than simply the act of dancing; it is a means of communicating happiness and surviving difficult times.

5. Angola’s Oil Wealth Coexists With Widespread Poverty: Despite being one of Africa's leading oil producers, millions of Angolans remain struggling. How does that occur? Unfairness, inadequate infrastructure, and corruption are major factors. The metropolis, Luanda, is home to both informal slums and expensive residences. It is similar to seeing a movie with two screens: one for elegance and the other for difficulty. Watching Angola can be both interesting and disappointing because of this type of economic difference.

6. Angola is Home to The Second-Largest Waterfall in Africa: Are you familiar with Kalandula Falls? Was skeptical of it. Despite being the second-largest waterfall in Africa, measuring 105 meters in height and 400 meters in width, it is strangely overlooked. It would appear on Instagram feeds, travel websites, and postcards if it were in a different nation. However, due to its location in Angola, it continues to be one of Africa's least-known attractions. It, to be straightforward, adds to its attractiveness.

7. Angola Has One of The Oldest Christian Churches in Sub-Saharan Africa: One of the earliest Christian churches in Sub-Saharan Africa is the Church of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, which was constructed in 1616. It is situated in Benguela and silently stands testament to centuries of cultural transformation, religious expansion, and colonial control. With its stone walls, wooden beams, and echoes of the past, the interior is like entering a history book.

8. Angola is Rich in Diamonds But Plagued By Illegal Mining: Despite Angola's diamond wealth, there is more to the narrative than its glitz. Illegal, uncontrolled mining has resulted in unsafe working environments, harm to the environment, and a loss of national income. A treasure of such importance creating so much misery is a modern-day problem. Angolan diamonds are sold by luxury brands, however you will not observe the human expense associated with a number of those gems.

9. Angola is One of The World’s Top Producers of Cassava: Cassava is the most important crop in Angola. This lowly root vegetable is one of the nation's best agricultural products in addition to being a staple food. It can be made into porridge, chips, as well as a kind of pancake. It is very inexpensive and drought-resistant. Millions of people in Angola are fed by cassava without much publicity, making it the country's unsung warrior.

10. Angola’s Flag Symbolizes War & Labor: Red in remembrance of the blood lost in the struggle for liberty. Black for the continent of Africa. A machete and tools for work and rebellion. The flag of Angola refuses to hold back. It is bolder, emblematic, and historically grounded. In contrast to banners that conceal themselves behind unclear representations, Angola's flag clearly identifies the nation as one that has been built by suffering, enthusiasm, and determination.

11. Angola Once Had The World’s Fastest-Growing Economy: Oil prosperity in the first decade of the 2000s caused Angola's GDP to increase significantly. It was undoubtedly the world's fastest-growing economy for a couple of years. Such a statistic is not overlooked. Investors flocked in. However, the boom eventually stopped as instances of corruption emerged and oil prices fell. Re-establishing with less reliance on oil and more environmentally friendly operations is the challenge of present-day.

Summary: Angola...A Land of Echoes & Energy

It is difficult to characterize Angola. Though young, it is weighed down by history. Despite having abundant natural resources, the area struggles with poverty. Incredibly imaginative yet still developing. And for that reason, it is so interesting. Angola presents a destination more profound if you are tired of Instagram cliches and the tourist attractions. It requires a little more of you, both mentally and emotionally, however, rewards you with stunning scenery, heritage, and storytelling. Thus, perhaps the time has come to consider Angola. Not only as a place to visit, but also as a nation worth learning about.