Angola

Översikt

Angola’s security environment is shaped by the legacy of a protracted civil war that ravaged the country between 1975-2002. Although peace has been restored and oil revenues are booming, the government has secured stability but is accused of running an autocratic system characterised by endemic corruption and intensifying wealth disparities. Despite being a booming oil producer, Angola is one of the world's poorest countries and it is struggling to address the divisions left by decades of war. Many rural areas continue to suffer from high levels of landmines and unexploded ordnance. The main threat to travellers in Luanda is robbery, with assaults and carjackings recorded throughout the capital. Violence is more common after dark. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Angola. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

Yellow fever is a risk in Angola and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required on arrival from all travellers.

Mosquito-borne diseases, including Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika virus are present in Angola. Travellers should take meticulous anti-mosquito bite measures during the daytime.

Risk of malaria is present throughout Angola, including urban areas. The use of anti-malarial medications (Lariam, Malarone, or doxycycline) is recommended for all areas of Angola. This prophylaxis should be supported by the use of insect repellent, mosquito nets and long-sleeved clothing around the hours of dusk.

Sleeping Sickness is endemic in Angola, particularly in the northwestern corner of the country. Travellers going on safari and rural areas should avoid getting bitten by tsetse flies.

Schistosomiasis risk is present in the whole country, including urban areas. Avoid swimming in fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands and eating raw foods which have not been washed with purified water.

An estimated 300.000 people live with HIV/AIDS in Angola, and the adult prevalence is estimated to be at 1.7%.

In addition to these health risks, travellers diarrhoea is the most common travel-related medical problem affecting travellers to Angola. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration. Travellers must take all necessary precautions when drinking water or eating food within the country and only drink water from sealed bottles obtained from a reputable source or water that has been boiled.

Tuberculosis is highly endemic in Angola.

There are several competent private clinics run by expatriate organisations in Luanda. Fees are high and are charged in advance. Outside Luanda health care is very limited. Travellers are advised to carry an adequate supply of properly-labelled medications that they may require while in Angola. Serious medical problems will require evacuation. Travel insurance with coverage for emergency repatriation is highly advisable.

Pass

Passports are required for all travellers wishing to travel to Angola. These must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and must have at least one blank page. Passport and visa regulations can change at short notice.

Visum

Nationals of all countries must obtain a valid visa and/or work permit before travelling to Angola otherwise they will be detained at the airport and subsequently deported. Travellers wishing to travel to Angola should contact the Angolan embassy in their country to determine the procedure to obtain a visa and the processing time.