Angolan Transport Infrastructures (Re)Building for the Future Research December 2020 Infrastructure follows pattern of population and natural resources Angola’s population of around 31 million is unequally distributed across the country. Transport Infrastructures The most densely populated areas are around the capital (Luanda) and a few other Tiago Bossa Dionísio major cities (Cabinda, Benguela, Lubango and Huambo). Overall, the coast and the (+351) 964 643 530 southern and eastern parts of the country are less populated than the interior
[email protected] highlands. The distribution of the Angolan population results, for the most part, from the devastating impact of the long-lasting civil war period (1975-2002). However, it is also influenced by the presence of vast natural resources and agricultural potential. The interior highlands are abundant in water resources and are, therefore, well suited for agriculture. The south and southeast are dry savanna while the far north is covered by rain forest. Angola’s oil fields are located in the coastal region in the north and west. The country is also rich in various minerals that are found in its western and central parts. Meanwhile, the distribution of infrastructure networks follows the pattern of the population and natural resources. As such, greater density of transport, power and information and communication technology infrastructure is located along the western half of the country. Local authorities have invested heavily in rebuilding infrastructure Angola’s transport infrastructure suffered extensive damage during the civil war period (1975-2002), with destruction and neglect leading to the closure of most of the road and rail networks.