World Happiness Report for Angola 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Angola: na
- Happiness Score Angola:na
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of Angola. AO.
Angola is a country located in southern Africa with a rich history and diverse culture.
- Angola has a presidential republic political structure, with the President as the head of state and government.
- The country is known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, influenced by both African and Portuguese cultural elements.
- Angola is a major oil producer, with oil accounting for a significant portion of its export earnings and government revenue.
Angola – Overview
Early History:
The earliest known inhabitants of the area now known as Angola were the San hunter-gatherers, who were later displaced by Bantu settlers migrating from the north. In the 7th century, the Kingdom of Kongo emerged as a major power in the region, controlling territory in present-day Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Republic of the Congo.
Kingdoms and Empires:
The Kingdom of Ndongo was a prominent kingdom that ruled over parts of modern-day Angola from the 16th to the 19th century. The Lunda Empire, centered in the Katanga region, was another influential empire that controlled areas of Angola during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Colonial Period:
Portuguese explorers first arrived in Angola in the late 15th century, and the country became a Portuguese colony in the 16th century. Portuguese rule was met with resistance from local kingdoms, but they eventually gained control over most of the territory. Angola became a major source of slaves for Portuguese colonies in the Americas until the abolition of the slave trade in the 19th century.
Independence and Modern Era:
After a prolonged guerrilla war against Portuguese colonial rule, Angola gained independence in 1975. However, the country soon descended into a civil war between the Marxist-Leninist MPLA (People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola) and other rebel groups, including UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola). The civil war lasted until 2002, leaving the country devastated. Since then, Angola has sought to rebuild and develop its economy, primarily through its vast oil and diamond resources.
Current Political Situation:
Angola is a semi-presidential republic, with the President serving as both head of state and head of government. The current President is João Lourenço, who was elected in 2017. The MPLA has dominated Angola’s political landscape since independence, although recent elections have seen increased opposition from other parties.
International Relations:
Angola has maintained relatively stable relations with its neighbors and other African countries. It is a member of the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). Angola has sought to diversify its international partnerships, strengthening ties with countries like China and Russia.
Human Development and Economy:
Angola’s economy is heavily dependent on its oil and gas industry, which accounts for a significant portion of its GDP and export revenues. However, the country has made efforts to diversify its economy, with sectors like agriculture, mining, and construction gaining importance. Despite its natural resource wealth, Angola still faces significant human development challenges, including high rates of poverty, inequality, and limited access to basic services.
Cultural Highlights:
Angola is a culturally diverse country, with numerous ethnic groups, including the Ovimbundu, Ambundu, and Bakongo. Portuguese is the official language, but various Bantu languages are widely spoken. Angola has a rich tradition of music, dance, and oral storytelling, and its cuisine reflects the diverse influences of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures.
Conclusion: Angola faces challenges in overcoming the lingering effects of its civil war, reducing poverty and inequality, and diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas. However, its abundant natural resources, strategic location, and cultural richness present opportunities for development and growth if the country can maintain political stability and address its human development needs.
Main facts
Location
Angola is a country located in southwestern Africa. It is situated along the Atlantic Ocean, bordered by Namibia to the south, Zambia to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, and the Republic of the Congo to the north and northwest.
Map References
Angola is located in Southern Africa.
Area – Comparative
With an area of 1,246,700 sq km, Angola is slightly less than twice the size of Texas.
Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Angola has land boundaries with the following countries:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo: 2,511 km
- Republic of the Congo: 201 km
- Namibia: 1,376 km
- Zambia: 1,110 km
Coastline (if applicable)
Angola has a coastline of 1,600 km along the Atlantic Ocean.
Maritime Claims
Angola claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
- Continental shelf: 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate
Angola has a semi-arid climate in the south and along the coast, with a humid subtropical climate in the north. The climate is generally hot and dry, with a short rainy season in the north and a longer rainy season in the central highlands.
Terrain
Angola’s terrain consists of narrow coastal plains, an escarpment that runs parallel to the coast, and a vast interior plateau. The interior is dominated by the Bié Plateau, which rises to an elevation of around 1,500 meters above sea level.
Elevation Extremes
The lowest point in Angola is the Atlantic Ocean (0 m), while the highest point is Morro de Moco (2,620 m).
Natural Resources
Angola’s major natural resources include petroleum, diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, copper, feldspar, gold, bauxite, and uranium.
Major Bodies of Water
The main bodies of water in Angola include the Cuanza River, Cunene River (shared with Namibia), Okavango River (shared with Namibia), and the Zambezi River (shared with Namibia, Zambia, and other countries).
Natural Hazards
Angola is prone to periodic droughts, and occasional severe storms along the coast.
Geography – Notes
Angola’s diverse geography includes the Namib Desert in the south, which is one of the oldest and most arid deserts in the world. The country also has significant biodiversity, with various national parks and reserves that protect wildlife such as elephants, lions, and antelopes.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 46.30%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 34,693. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 47.50%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: -11.20269217.873887.
- Capital: The capital of Angola is Luanda
- Major Cities:
- Luanda – Population: 2,825,311
- Lobito – Population: 324,050
- Huambo – Population: 226,145
- Benguela – Population: 128,084
- Kuito – Population: 118,594
- Population: 31,825,295
- Area(Km2): 1246700
- Population Density( P/Km²):26. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:244
- Official Language(s):Angola is Portuguese (official) 71.2%, Umbundu 23%, Kikongo 8.2%, Kimbundu 7.8%, Chokwe 6.5%, Nhaneca 3.4%, Nganguela 3.1%, Fiote 2.4%, Kwanhama 2.3%, Muhumbi 2.1%.
- Currency: AOA
Main Economic Indicators
Angola is a country in southwestern Africa with an economy heavily dependent on oil production and exports. As one of Africa’s largest oil producers, the petroleum industry accounts for a significant portion of Angola’s GDP and export revenues. However, the country faces challenges in diversifying its economy and reducing reliance on the energy sector. Notable economic policies have focused on promoting non-oil sectors like agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 25.7%
2020: 22.4%
Source: World Bank
Credit Ratings
Fitch: B- (Stable)
Moody’s: B3 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: B- (Stable)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 9.4%
Industry: 38.3%
Services: 52.3%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Bananas, cassava, maize, potatoes, sweet potatoes
Industrial Products: Crude oil, refined petroleum, diamonds, iron ore, cement
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 14.79 million (2021 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 40th in the world
Current Account Balance
2021: $8.23 billion
2020: -$1.55 billion
Comparative Ranking: 23rd in the world (2021)
Exports and Imports
Exports: $33.94 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: China, India, United States, Spain, France
Main Commodities: Crude petroleum, diamonds, refined petroleum, gas, fish
Imports: $18.35 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Portugal, China, United States, South Africa, Brazil
Main Commodities: Machinery, vehicles, mineral fuels, foodstuffs, textiles
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $14.82 billion (2021 est.)
Gold Reserves: 16.45 tonnes (2021 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$94,635,415,870. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 9.20%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 49.10%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $0.97. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. $0.71. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 6.89%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
1. National Identity
Noun: Angolan(s)
Adjective: Angolan
2. Ethnic Groups
Ovimbundu 37%
Kimbundu 25%
Bakongo 13%
Mestiço (mixed European and Native African) 2%
European 1.6%
Other 21.4%
3. Religions
Catholic 41.1%
Protestant 38.1%
Other 8.6%
None 12.3%
4. Age Structure
0-14 years: 42.93%
15-64 years: 54.54%
65 years and over: 2.53%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 83.4
Youth dependency ratio: 78.8
Elderly dependency ratio: 4.6
6. Median Age
Total: 16.9 years
Male: 16.3 years
Female: 17.6 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity Rate: 8.2%
Alcohol Consumption: 5.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
Tobacco Use: 14.8% of adults (aged 15 and above)
Life Expectancy at Birth: 61.5 years (59.2 years for males, 63.9 years for females)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 60.8. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 66.85%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:40.73. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:8. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 5.52. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 12.4%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 21,061,025. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):33.40%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
The Angolan Armed Forces consist of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Notable units include the Special Forces Brigade (known as the “Cavalry Brigade”) and the Territorial Air Defense Forces. The National Police and the Military Police are responsible for internal security, law enforcement, and maintaining public order.
Military Expenditures
Angola’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2022: 3.7%
- 2021: 3.8%
- 2020: 3.9%
- 2019: 4.1%
- 2018: 4.2%
Angola ranks 19th globally in terms of military expenditure as a percentage of GDP.
Personnel Strengths
The total active-duty military personnel stands at 107,000, with the following breakdown:
- Army: 90,000
- Navy: 5,000
- Air Force: 12,000
The National Police has an estimated strength of 80,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Angola’s military hardware includes:
- Domestically produced: Armored personnel carriers, light utility vehicles, and small arms
- Imported: T-72 main battle tanks, Su-30K fighter jets, Mi-24 attack helicopters, and various transport aircraft from Russia; patrol boats from Spain and Germany
Significant future acquisitions include plans to procure additional fighter jets, transport aircraft, and naval vessels from Russia and other international partners.
Military Service Age and Obligation
The legal age for voluntary military service is 20-45 years for both men and women. Angola has a two-year compulsory military service for men aged 20-45.
Military Deployments
Angola currently has:
- Approximately 250 troops deployed as part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA)
- A small contingent of troops participating in the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
Strategic Military Notes
Angola’s defense strategy is focused on protecting its territorial integrity, ensuring internal stability, and safeguarding its natural resources. The military plays a role in regional security initiatives, particularly through its participation in UN peacekeeping missions and bilateral cooperation agreements with neighboring countries.
Angola is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and has contributed troops to SADC-led military interventions in the past. The country maintains close defense ties with Russia, its primary source of military equipment and training.
- Armed Forces Size: 107000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 0.21
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 77.50%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.