A Practical Guide to the Way of Life in Angola

Life in Angola

Education in Angola

At the age of seven, children must start attending compulsory education for four years, which is free. Secondary school begins when they turn 11, which then lasts eight years. However, basic adult literacy is much lower than other countries’, and surveys from various sources indicate it is difficult to pinpoint peoples’ educational needs.  Current UNICEF figures suggest that Angola’s adult literacy rate stands at little over 70%. On the other hand, the past decade has seen a university system develop.

The Angolan government collected finances from tax on oil and diamond extractions, leading to a budget for education. The country’s civil war only ended 13 years ago in 2002, and the end of the conflict meant improvements could be made to make a stronger, and more appropriate, system for the nation.

Culture and Leisure in Angola

A draw for an expat in Angola is the country’s beaches, which stretch for more than 1,650 kilometers across the Eastern length of the country, facing out into the Atlantic Ocean. Rivers have gradually created plenty of small islands and bays, where smaller, picturesque beaches can be discovered. Some of the most famous include Ilha do Cabo, Mussulo, Corimba and Restinga, among others. The unique climate of the country means you could visit them at any time of year, although the hot season is when they are most busy. Many bars litter the waterfront, with local music playing into the night sky.

Further inland, Angola has a wide range of animal species, some being extremely rare. To protect the animals and plant life, the country has several national parks. Cabinda has a forest, which is a natural home for gorillas, and the National Integral Park of Kwando and the National Park of Cangandala is home to an animal only found in Angola, the black palanca. Other wild, exotic animals, including zebra, elephants, leopards and rhinos, can be seen at various National Parks across the country.

Safety and Security in Angola

Many visits to Angola are trouble free, and there is a low threat of terrorism, but there are a couple of things to remember when considering living in Angola. Expats are advised against all but essential travel to the Cabinda provinces. With regular incidents of violent attacks, including murder and rape, many groups have claimed responsibility for them with intentions to attack foreigners. It is advised that expatriates avoid this area.

There is also a high level of crime in Luanda, and it is suggested that you don’t walk around the city after dark. Muggings, particularly phones and other valuables, are fairly common, and areas popular with foreigners are favorite targets. If wanting to move to Angola, it is best to do so through an international company or persons who are experienced in local conditions, as it can be difficult for the inexperienced.