Angola United Association of Ireland
The Angola United Association Ireland aims to unite all Angolans living in Ireland, without distinction of race, tribe, religion, culture or political affiliation.
The aims of the Angola United Association Ireland are:
- To promote and create awareness of Angolan Culture in Ireland.
- To foster unity and Integration of Irish resident Angolans into the Irish society and to promote Angolan culture in Ireland through sport, education and social activities in the State.
- To address language and educational disadvantage for the Angolan community in Ireland by trainings and referral services.
- To strengthen the Angolan - Irish relationship
Country Information
Country Facts
Angola is located on the west coast of southern Africa. The country was under Portuguese colonial rule until November 11, 1975, when it became an independent nation. It extends over an area of 1,246,700 Km2.
The country is divided into 18 provinces, with Luanda being the capital. With a total of 4,837 Km long border, Angola is bordered by Congo-Brazzaville in the northern province of Cabinda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaïre) to the north and east, Zambia to the east, and Namibia to the South.
Angola has an Atlantic Ocean coastline of 1,650 Km long. The country's major ports include Luanda, Lobito, and Namibe. The country's highest peak is Mount Moco, 2,620 m high, located in Huambo province. With a privileged continental hydrographic system, Angola's main rivers are Kwanza, Záire, Cunene, and Cubango. Kwanza (Kz) is the national currency. Also, the country is the second-largest petroleum and diamond producer in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ethnic groups in Angola include the Ovimbundu, Kimbundu, Bakongo, mestiços (mixed European and native African), European and others. Portuguese is spoken as a first language by approximately 60 percent of the population. Christianity is the major religion in Angola. The Christians in Angola include both Roman Catholics and Protestants. Many Angolans also practice indigenous beliefs.
Angolan culture is a mixture of Portuguese and Bantu customs. Angolan music includes diverse styles such as merengue, kilapanda, samba and rebita. Notable Angolan writers include Luandino Vieira and Agostinho Neto. The most popular spectator sports are soccer and basketball. The country is governed by a presidential republic.