What is Angola?
Angola, officially known as the Republic of Angola, is a country located on the west coast of southern Africa. It is known for its rich natural resources, including oil and diamonds, as well as its diverse culture and history. Angola shares borders with Namibia, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Administrative Divisions
Angola is divided into 18 provinces, which are further subdivided into municipalities and communes.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Angolan Kwanza
- Symbol: AOA
- Subunit: 1 Kwanza = 100 Cêntimos
- Central Bank: Banco Nacional de Angola
Type of Government
Angola operates as a unitary presidential republic. The President serves as both the head of state and government.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Powers & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of state and government; Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. | Oversees the executive branch, appoints government officials, and directs foreign policy. |
| Vice President | Assists the President in governance. | Provides support in implementing executive policies and national governance. |
| Council of Ministers | Includes ministers heading various departments. | Implements government policies and administers public services. |
Legislative Branch
| Chamber | Description | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| National Assembly | Unicameral legislature composed of elected representatives. | Drafts, debates, and passes laws; oversees the executive branch. |
Judicial Branch
| Court | Role Description | Powers & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court | Highest judicial authority in Angola. | Ensures justice and interprets laws in accordance with the constitution. |
| Constitutional Court | Specializes in constitutional matters. | Validates laws and resolves constitutional disputes. |
International Memberships
- African Union (AU)
- United Nations (UN)
- Southern African Development Community (SADC)
- OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries)
Military Structure
- Branches: Angolan Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force).
- Key Focus: Border security, peacekeeping missions, and internal stability.
Emergency Numbers
- General Emergency: 112
- Police: 113
- Ambulance: 115
SWOT Analysis of Angola
Strengths
- Abundant natural resources, especially oil and diamonds.
- Strategic geographic location for trade and logistics.
Weaknesses
- Overreliance on oil revenues.
- High poverty and unemployment rates.
Opportunities
- Potential for agricultural development and industrial diversification.
- Increasing foreign investment in infrastructure and technology.
Threats
- Political instability and corruption.
- Vulnerability to fluctuations in global oil prices.
Additional Information
- Official Language: Portuguese (various indigenous languages are also spoken).
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT).
- Capital City: Luanda.