is an African country in transition. After four decades of war, Angola is now entering an era of peace. Around the world, many watch to see which path Angola will follow. And by God’s grace, we pray that Angola will choose Christ.
During the 16th century, Portugal began to colonize the coast of what would become Angola. In 1961, nationalist movements began the fight for independence, which was achieved in 1974. Each hungry for power in the new government, the three nationalist groups launched into a civil war the very next year – a war that would last 27 years.
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Quick Angola Facts
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| Official name: |
Republic of Angola |
| Official language: |
Portuguese |
| Capital: |
Luanda |
| President: |
José Eduardo dos Santos |
| Currency: |
Kwanza |
| Population: |
12-13 million |
| Adult literacy: |
officially 42%, probably much less |
| Life expectancy: |
about 40 years |
| Land area: |
481,354 sq. mi.
(twice the size of Texas) |
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But the sun is rising over a new Angola. In April 2002, the civil war came to an end. For over seven years the people of Angola have experienced a peace that was unknown in the past. The country is blessed with abundant natural resources, including diamonds and oil. In the past, these resources fueled the war effort; in the future, they may contribute to a prosperous nation. Most importantly, the next 20 years will be Angola’s most receptive time to respond to the good news of Christ. He needs to be the foundation for Angola’s future.
Would you like to learn more and share this information with others? Download and print our 4 page Angola Fact Sheet in PDF format.
