Celebrating 50 years of Independence and a tourism-fueled future

On 11 November, Angola will celebrate 50 years of independence.

The highlight of the celebrations, which have been taking place across the country for months, will be a major ceremony in Luanda, led by President João Lourenço and attended by thousands of guests, including international heads of state. The anniversary also provides an opportunity to look ahead: the tourism sector is set to become a key driver of growth. With an ambitious strategy for sustainable and future-oriented tourism, Angola is laying the foundation for a modern, internationally connected tourism industry.

“The Rhythm of Life” Drives Angola’s Tourism Initiative

This comprehensive initiative is guided by the motto “The Rhythm of Life”, developed in cooperation with the Kleber Group, which has been responsible for Angola’s global marketing as a travel destination since March 2025. The aim is to establish the country as a modern, internationally connected destination and to send a clear signal in the international tourism market – including as a partner country for CMT and ITB 2026.

Regional Airports and International Connectivity

With the assumption of the African Union presidency, Angola is taking an active role on the continent. The country is promoting cooperation between African states, supporting investment and sustainable development, and thus strengthening the tourism sector across Africa – including the domestic market. As part of this strategy, the Open Sky Policy has opened the airspace and visa-free travel has been expanded for selected countries, facilitating travel within Africa and worldwide. In addition, existing regional airports are being modernized and will in the future have international connections, improving access to key tourist regions.

The new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport in Luanda is already operational. The transfer of international flights from the former Quatro de Fevereiro Airport is being implemented gradually. The new hub significantly increases capacity, improves service quality, and strengthens Angola’s international accessibility.

Investments in Hotels, Infrastructure and Events

Angola is actively driving the expansion of its tourism infrastructure. Training programs for guides and local DMCs are designed to strengthen professional expertise, improve the quality of services, and secure jobs in the long term.

International hotel chains are also investing: Hilton is building a new five-star hotel in Luanda, while the state-owned Fundo Soberano de Angola is supporting the market entry of the Sheraton brand. Additionally, a modern conference and congress center has been established in Luanda, which will host international meetings, congresses, and events in the future. The opening is currently being prepared. The center will further strengthen Angola’s position as an emerging destination for business travel and international events.

"We are committed to a sustainable and ambitious development of the tourism sector. Angola is opening up to the world to create new jobs, attract investment, and strengthen tourism in the long term. At the same time, we want to make the diversity and authenticity of our country – from the spectacular Kalandula Falls to the vast landscapes of Kissama and Iona National Parks – accessible and internationally known," said Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Minister of Tourism.

Press Contacts:

Adele Cutler, PR ManagerE-Mail: adele.cutler@klebergroup.comTel: +44 7976 578988

Tim Henshall, UK DirectorE-Mail: tim.henshall@klebergroup.comTel: +44 7810 508791