Angola Country Report

Located on the western coast of southern Africa, Angola is among the continent's largest oil-producing countries. Although the country possesses significant natural resources, the vast majority of the population remains in poverty and is yet to significantly benefit from its oil and gas wealth, which has remained concentrated in the hands of the ruling elite. Despite these difficult socio-economic conditions, Angola has remained relatively stable under the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) government since the end of the country's long civil war in 2002. However, opposition parties are heavily-controlled and have a limited ability to operate, while political dissent has frequently been repressed. Corruption is rampant in the country and rule of law is generally weak, creating a major barrier to investment.

The primary risk to foreign travelers in Angola comes from criminal activity in urban areas, including the capital Luanda, and the lack of adequate infrastructure throughout the country. Poor road conditions and a harsh environment makes travel within Angola hazardous, particularly in the north which was ravaged by the long civil war, but conditions in more developed coastal locations tend to be more accommodating for travelers.

Violent and petty crime has been on the rise in Angola in recent years, particularly in Luanda, with a worrying increase in kidnappings targeting expatriates, especially Chinese nationals. Large-scale unrest remains relatively rare, although growing frustration over socio-economic conditions and a restrictive democratic space has sparked intermittent demonstrations that have been quickly suppressed by security forces.

Following the end of the long-running civil war in 2002, there is a limited conflict risk in Angola. However, threats stemming from separatist rebels in the Cabinda enclave and an ongoing maritime demarcation dispute with the DRC continue to present an increased risk in some areas. While separatists in the Cabinda enclave have resorted to terrorist attacks in the past, these incidents have remained limited to the northern province.

Angola’s aviation industry has been subject to EU bans, and aside from the national carrier, TAAG Angola Airlines, domestic airlines should be avoided.

Despite recent investment in Angola’s road network, driving conditions remain hazardous throughout the country, and there is a significant risk of road traffic collisions.

Angola has four major sea ports. Even though Luanda is one of the fastest growing ports in Africa, it experiences delays and capacity constraints.

The national utility infrastructure is generally under-developed, particularly outside of urban centers. Internet access remains limited outside of Luanda, and reliable connections are typically expensive.

There is not a high threat of cyber attacks, however, it cannot be ruled out.

Parts of Angola suffer moderate to severe flooding during the rainy season, particularly during February and March, posing a potential threat to travelers. Authorities have recorded a significant increase in flooding in recent years, with around 75 percent of the country being vulnerable during the seasonal rains. Angola is also prone to droughts during the dry season from May to mid-September, primarily affecting southern and southwestern areas of the country. Parts of the country remain heavily contaminated by landmines and unexploded ordnance, although demining efforts have been ongoing for more than two decades and most landmines are located in properly marked minefields.

Water- and vector-borne diseases, primarily malaria, yellow fever and cholera, are the main health risks facing travelers in Angola. Vaccines before travel are also required, for example, for yellow fever. Medical facilities are adequate in Luanda, albeit expensive, but are extremely limited outside the capital. Access to mental health services is limited. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking.

The sustained repression of opposition political activity and an extensive patronage system has enabled the MPLA to maintain tight control over Angola's political environment, although deteriorating economic conditions and growing dissatisfaction over its political stranglehold could fuel future instability. In power since 1979, José Eduardo dos Santos stood down as Angola's president in 2017, with João Lourenço taking up the role as head of state. Lourenço was reelected in August 2022, amid tight and contested elections.

Corruption is endemic at all levels of the civil service and government institutions. However, Lourenço has launched a major anti-corruption drive since taking office. Rule of law is weak in Angola, characterized by frequent judicial abuses, arbitrary detentions, violations of due process and corruption.