Angola Fun Facts - General
Angola, a Portuguese-speaking nation in Africa, boasts a rich culture, diverse landscapes, and a history marked by both independence struggles and resource wealth, with the Kalandula Falls being the second-largest waterfall in Africa.
Here are some fun facts about Angola:
- Language:
Portuguese is the official language, a legacy of its former Portuguese colonial rule.
- Size and Geography:
Angola is the 7th largest country in Africa, twice the size of France, and has an area of 1,246,700 square kilometers.
- Capital:
The capital city is Luanda, which is sometimes referred to as the "Paris of Africa".
- Natural Resources:
Angola is known for its natural resources, particularly oil and diamonds, which contribute significantly to its economy.
- Kalandula Falls:
The Kalandula Falls, located in the Malanje province, is the second-largest waterfall in Africa.
- Independence:
Angola gained independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975, after a long war called the Angolan War of Independence.
- Giant Sable Antelope:
The giant sable antelope, rediscovered in Angola, is a national symbol and can only be found in Angola.
- Population:
Angola has a young population, with almost 70% of people under 24 years old.
- Dance:
The main dance in Angola is the Semba, which comes from the word "massemba" meaning "touching of the bellies".
- Economy:
Angola is one of the wealthiest countries in Africa, due to its oil and gas resources and precious diamonds.
- Exclave Province:
Cabinda, the northernmost province, is an exclave separated from the rest of the country by the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- President:
Joao Lourenco, a retired general, became the country's first new president in 38 years in September 2017.
- History:
Angola's name comes from the king of Ndongo, a significant state south of the Kingdom of Congo.