Angola's Safety: A Secure Place To Work?

Angola has a high crime rate, with common crimes ranging from petty theft to violent crimes such as armed robbery and carjacking. The threat of violent crime is much higher at night, and criminals have been known to target foreigners, including kidnapping them from vehicles. The country also has a high rate of HIV/AIDS infection and insect-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and yellow fever. There is a low threat of terrorism, but there are safety concerns around the disputed territory of the Cabinda province, where foreigners have been the targets of kidnapping and killing. The country's recent history of civil war has also left landmines throughout the country, and infrastructure is heavily damaged.

Crime in Angola

Angola has a high crime rate, with common crimes ranging from petty theft to violent crimes such as armed robbery and carjacking. The risk of violent crime is much higher at night, and it is advised that nobody walks alone or in the dark. Criminals have been known to target vehicles, with kidnappings taking place in and around Luanda, with foreigners often being the victims.

Street crime is a large threat in Luanda, with offences such as pickpocketing and theft from vehicles and homes being frequent. These crimes can turn violent when perpetrated by armed criminals, who sometimes ride scooters. Particular places to avoid in Luanda include the Roque Santeiro market and Rocha Pinto, and the area between bars and restaurants on the Ilha do Cabo. The "Serpentine Road" in front of the U.S. Embassy should also be avoided. Rape has been reported in the bar and club areas of Luanda, and women are advised not to travel alone at night.

Outside of Luanda, it is recommended to travel with an experienced individual or as part of a group. Carjackings are also a possibility, and thieves may use the tactic of pulling over to rob travellers, especially in rural areas.

Terrorism and conflict

Angola has experienced a long history of civil conflict, which has resulted in a high crime rate and violent crimes. While there is no recent history of terrorism in Angola, attacks cannot be ruled out. The UK government advises remaining vigilant at all times.

The Angolan Civil War, which lasted from 1975 to 2002, was a power struggle between two former anti-colonial guerrilla movements: the communist People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) and the anti-communist National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA). The war was a Cold War proxy conflict, with foreign military and political involvement from the Soviet Union, the United States, Cuba, and South Africa. The conflict resulted in the deaths of between 500,000 and 800,000 people and the internal displacement of over one million.

The civil war devastated Angola's infrastructure and severely damaged public administration, the economy, and religious institutions. Land mines still litter the countryside and contribute to ongoing civilian casualties. The war also resulted in a high crime rate and the prevalence of violent crimes, including kidnapping and carjacking. The risk of violent crime is much higher at night, and criminals often target vehicles for smash-and-grab robberies.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to certain areas of Angola due to security concerns. These areas include Cabinda Province, except for Cabinda city, due to targeted attacks on foreigners and the risk of kidnapping by separatist groups; and border areas in Lunda Norte Province within 1km of the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to poor conditions, insecurity, and banditry.

While there is no recent history of terrorism in Angola, the global threat of terrorism means that attacks cannot be ruled out. UK Counter Terrorism Policing advises staying vigilant and taking precautions to reduce the risk of terrorism while abroad.

Road safety

Angola has a high crime rate, with violent crimes such as muggings, robberies, and carjackings being common. Criminals often target foreigners, and this includes those driving on the roads. Therefore, it is important to take precautions when travelling in Angola, especially when driving.

Driving in Angola

When driving in Angola, it is important to be vigilant and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Road Conditions: The roads outside of major towns and cities, such as Luanda, are often in poor condition. Roads can be washed away during the rainy season, which typically lasts from November to April. It is recommended to use off-road vehicles for longer journeys and always carry spare tyres and replacement parts.
• Landmines: Landmines and unexploded ordnance from the civil war are still a danger, especially in rural areas, roadsides, and verges. Even in areas that have been cleared of landmines, it is advisable to stick to well-established routes and seek up-to-date advice from the United Nations or international NGOs.
• Safety Precautions: Always keep your doors locked and windows closed when driving. Be alert for any attempts to stop your vehicle, as this could be a tactic used by thieves to rob you. Avoid pulling over, especially in rural areas, and consider travelling with a group or an experienced local.
• Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including a valid driver's licence, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and vehicle ownership and insurance documents. These will be checked at the frequent police checkpoints.
• Convoys: Consider travelling in a convoy of at least two vehicles when venturing outside major towns. This is a common practice for foreign visitors to ensure safety and assistance in case of breakdowns.
• Taxis: If you need to take a taxi, always use pre-booked taxis from reputable companies. Apps such as 'Yango' and 'Heetch' are available for booking taxis in advance.
• Public Transport: Local minibus transport is considered unsafe and is rarely used by foreign nationals.
• Traffic Safety: Driving practices in Angola can be dangerous, with incidents of street vendors, motor scooters, and pedestrians posing safety risks. Always exercise caution and follow safe driving practices.

Additional Safety Precautions

In addition to the road safety considerations, here are some general safety precautions to keep in mind when working or travelling in Angola:

• Valuables: Do not display valuable items such as jewellery, watches, or mobile phones in public. Keep your valuables secure, preferably in a hotel safe.
• Cash Withdrawals: Be extremely cautious when withdrawing cash from banks or ATMs, as this can make you a target for thieves. Consider using pre-arranged or hotel cars for added security.
• Travel in Groups: Avoid walking alone, especially at night. Stay in well-lit, populated areas, and try to travel with a group or a local guide.
• High-Risk Areas: Some areas in Luanda, such as the Roque Santeiro market, Rocha Pinto, and the Ilha do Cabo, are known for higher crime rates. Avoid these areas if possible, and be extra vigilant if you need to visit them.
• Nightlife Areas: Incidents of rape and other violent crimes have been reported in popular nightlife areas. Women, in particular, are advised against travelling alone at night.
• Terrorism: While there is no recent history of terrorism in Angola, the global threat of terrorist attacks exists, and such incidents cannot be ruled out. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Kidnapping and violent attacks

Angola has a high rate of violent crime, including armed robbery, assault, carjacking, muggings, and homicide. Incidents of rape have also occurred. Criminals target stationary or slow-moving cars for smash-and-grab robberies, and these incidents can occur at any time of day but are more prevalent at night.

Kidnappings are also a concern in Angola, particularly in and around Luanda, and victims are usually foreigners. Criminals often abduct their victims from vehicles and demand ransom payments. Be vigilant and wary of any attempts to stop your vehicle.

To protect yourself from violent crime and kidnapping, take the following precautions:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night, and avoid travelling to isolated areas.
• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places such as markets.
• Avoid displaying valuable items, such as electronic devices, cameras, and jewellery, as this can make you a target for robbery.
• Keep car doors locked and windows up at all times, and hide valuables from view when travelling by car.
• Use varied routes and schedules for your travel.
• Avoid pulling over on roadways, especially in rural areas, as thieves may use this opportunity to rob you.
• If you are the victim of an armed robbery, do not resist. Comply with the demands to avoid an escalation of violence.
• Always travel in groups or with experienced individuals who know the local conditions, especially when travelling outside of Luanda.

Health and medical care

Angola's healthcare system is made up of two sectors: public and private. While treatment at state hospitals and clinics is free, the standards are low, and the majority of the population has extremely limited access to medical care. The country's best hospitals are found in the capital city of Luanda, but even these are usually not up to the standards that expats are accustomed to.

The public healthcare system in Angola is severely underfunded and understaffed, with poorly trained doctors, nurses, and caregivers, as well as outdated medical technology and infrastructure. As a result, most expats and even locals opt for private healthcare instead.

Private healthcare in Angola offers higher standards of care and emergency stabilisation services. However, it can be very expensive, and payment is often expected upfront and in cash. Therefore, it is crucial for expats to obtain a comprehensive international health insurance plan that covers emergency evacuation services to better-equipped facilities in nearby countries, such as South Africa.

Pharmacies in Angola, called "farmácias," are mostly found in Luanda and are often understocked. Those located within hospitals and clinics are usually open 24 hours a day, but basic over-the-counter medications may be expensive and in limited supply.

Expats should take note of the generic names for any medications they need, as brand names vary between countries. Due to medication shortages, it is advisable to carry a supply of any chronic medications, along with proof of prescription, when travelling to Angola.

There are several health hazards in Angola, including the risk of insect-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever. HIV/AIDS infection rates are also high. Expats should ensure that all their vaccinations, including those for preventable diseases, are up to date before travelling to the country. Additionally, preventative measures against insect bites, such as the use of mosquito nets and insect repellent, are strongly recommended.

In case of a medical emergency, dialling 112 will connect expats to medical dispatchers. However, ambulance services are often limited to Luanda, and emergencies in rural areas may require air evacuation. Therefore, it is advisable for expats to prepare their own transport and have the contact information for the nearest local hospital readily available.

Frequently asked questions