Background

Two generations of Angolans have grown up not knowing the meaning of the word “peace”. Four decades of continuous war began with the first battles against colonial forces in the early 1960s, and continued through the transition to independence in 1975, followed by the civil war that has dominated the history of independent Angola.

During this prolonged period of civil war, over 330 000 Angolans fled into neighbouring countries, and many more were displaced within Angola. The war involved widespread destruction of infrastructure, and much of the land now contains landmines. Prior to the war, Angola had been dominated by Portugal for almost 500 years.

Tension remains high in the oil-rich Cabinda Province, which has struggled for independence from Angola since the mid-1970s.

The United States and China both have growing economic interests in the country.

According to the IMF, the Angolan economy grew by 14.7% in 2005 (compared to 4.6% for other countries in sub-Saharan Africa). Projections are that the economy will grow by an average of 18% in 2006 and 2007, mainly due to increased oil production. Diamond exports could reach $6 billion in 2008.

Despite good economic potential, Angola remains plagued by poverty and poor education.