LONDA

DI G ITA L R IG H TS A ND I NCLUS I ON I N A F R I CA R E PORT

20
23

ANGOLA
LONDA
2023
DIGITAL
RIGHTS AND
INCLUSION
IN AFRICA
REPORT
 Published in April 2024

Report produced by Paradigm Initiative

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LONDA
2023
DIGITAL
RIGHTS AND
INCLUSION
IN AFRICA Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
REPORT
ISBN: 978-978-789-359-3
 CREDITS
Country Report:
Maria Malomalo

Editorial Team:
‘Gbenga Sesan
Nnenna Paul-Ugochukwu
Thobekile Matimbe

Translator:
Paper Bag Africa

Copy Editor:
Sabine Matsheka

Design & Layout:

Kenneth Oyeniyi

LONDA
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DIGITAL
RIGHTS AND
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REPORT
 Angola

Digital rights and freedoms are and that special attention is given to
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

fundamental human rights. The Angola collaboration between the government,

country report used desk review and key private sector, educational institutions,
informant interviews to delve into the and the community.
country’s most pressing digital rights
issues: Digital inclusion, development
in ICT and emerging technologies, data
protection and cyber security and the
Universal Service and Access Funds.
The research found that there has been a
noticeable increase from 2022 in internet
penetration and mobile technology usage
in Angola. At the same time, the accelerated
promotion of digital platforms for financial
transactions and efforts to increase
broadband have contributed significantly
to improved infrastructure and digital
inclusion. Despite the advancements,
the high inflation rates have resulted in
prohibitive data costs, poor infrastructure,
and ambiguity in managing the Universal
4 Service and Access Funds, which limit the
full enjoyment of digital rights. The report
recommends regular assessment and
monitoring of digital inclusion initiatives to
identify areas for improvement, including
gathering data on internet penetration,
developing digital skills, and assessing
LONDA the impact of various programs on
2023 communities. It is also recommended
DIGITAL that digital content and services be made
RIGHTS AND
accessible to people with disabilities
INCLUSION
IN AFRICA
REPORT
Introduction
Angola is a Portuguese-speaking Southern African country with borders with Namibia,
Zambia, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and a population of
33,08 million based on 2022 statistics.1 Since attaining independence in 1979, Angola
has been ruled by the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), with Joao
Lourenco as the current President.2 Oil is the country’s major contributor to the Gross
Domestic Product (GDP), resulting in a high poverty rate due to fluctuating oil prices.3
The Freedom on the Net 2023 report by Freedom House rated Angola as partly free with
a score of 61 over 100, with 0 being the least free and 100 the freest. In 2023, Angola
witnessed an increase in internet penetration by 3,1% from 2022.4 The country’s biggest
mobile network, Unitel, expanded its 4G network to more than 80% of the country while
5G services became available in major cities, including Luanda and Benguela.5 During
the same year, Conecta Angola was launched to link high-population areas to internet
access points in every province.6 The expansion of internet services was enabled by the
commercialisation of Angola’s communication satellite, Angosat 2.7 The country also
received an investment from the China Export and Import Bank to expand its broadband
project.8 In addition, the government announced the development of a National
Cybersecurity Strategy and the establishment of a Cybersecurity School.9 Despite the
progress made over the year, inflation witnessed due to drops in fuel prices and debt
repayment10 increased data and ICT costs affecting access. In addition, unreliable
electricity, particularly in rural communities, affects access to the Internet and mobile
technologies.11 The government’s continued ownership of Unitel and Angola Telecom12
creates a monopoly in the sector. Unclear use of the Universal Service and Access
Funds has also led to growing questions about the fund’s objectives.13

1 The World Bank, Angola Overview https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/angola/overview

2 As above.
3 As above.
4 Simon Kemp, “Digital 2023: Angola,” DataReportal, February 13, 2023, https://datareportal.com/reports/

5
digital-2023-angola
5 Myles, , “Angola: Unitel accelerates the extension of the coverage of its telecom-
munications network ,” Extensia, December 13, 2023 https://extensia-ltd.com/2023/12/13/
angola-unitel-accelerates-the-extension-of-the-coverage-of-its-telecoms-network/
6 Jornal de Angola, “Conecta Angola prevê internet para mais de 30 mil cidadãos,” January 27, 2024 https://www.
jornaldeangola.ao/ao/noticias/conecta-angola-preve-internet-para-mais-de-30-mil-cidadaos/
7 Simon Kemp, “Digital 2023 Angola,” February 13, 2023 https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2023-angola
8 Angola Press Agency, “Angola: China grants USD249 million loan for Broadband Project in Angola,” January
1,2023 https://allafrica.com/stories/202301120264.html
9 Lusa/Verangola, , “Angola is preparing a National Cybersecurity Strategy against Cyber Attacks,” May 10, 2023
https://www.verangola.net/va/en/052023/Telecommunications/35500/Angola-is-preparing-a-National-Cybersecurity- LONDA
Strategy-against-cyberattacks.htm 2023
10 The World Bank, Angola Overview https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/angola/overview
DIGITAL
11 Freedom on the Net (2023)
12 JF Sebastião TV CABO and UNITEL among the companies to be privatized in 2023, 04May 2023 RIGHTS AND
https://www.menosfios.com/en/tv-cabo-e-unitel-entre-as-empresas-a-privatizar-em-2023/ INCLUSION
13 Jornal de Angola, “Fundo sem visibilidade é pago pelos operadores” 08 October 2010, https://www.jornaldean- IN AFRICA
gola.ao/ao/noticias/fundo-sem-visibilidade-e-pago-pelos-operadores/ REPORT
 Country Analysis
Internet access and digital inclusion
Digital inclusion refers to the efforts and initiatives to provide equal access to digital technologies
and resources for all individuals in the country, regardless of their socioeconomic status,
geographic location, or other potential barriers. In 2023, Angola made reasonable strides in
expanding its digital infrastructure, including developing telecommunications and internet
connectivity. 2023 witnessed a substantial increase in internet and mobile use in Angola. A total
of 11,78 million internet users were recorded at the start of 2023 with 32,6% penetration, marking
a 3,1% increase in internet users from 2022 to 2023.14 In addition, 3,7 million social media users
were recorded, representing 10,2% of the total population and 20,11 million active cellular mobile
connections, representing 55,7%.15 During the period under review, the largest phone company,
Unitel, reported an increase in 4G LTE coverage to 126 municipalities, 167 rural communes and 17
other localities, representing 76,8% of Angola’s 164 municipalities and 30,8% of the country’s 542
communes.16 Unitel also reported the availability of 5G network in eight municipalities in Luanda,
two in Benguela and one in Huambo.17 In 2023, Unitel opened the North Submarine Cable, which
connects Cabinda and Zaire provinces and improves internet connectivity. 18
Promoting digital literacy is essential for ensuring that all individuals can effectively use digital
technologies. Educational programs and training initiatives can empower people with the
necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape, access information, and use online services.
The government of Angola initiated a strategic plan which was under consultation focusing on the
development of digital skills, expansion of digital literacy for both students and teachers, equipping
primary and secondary schools with computers and the Internet and creating a virtual university.19
The continued development of digital financial services contributed to financial inclusion.
Encouraging mobile banking and digital payment systems can bring financial services to previously
underserved populations. The country witnessed the proliferation and expansion of e-services
to boost the digital economy. Empresa Interbancária de Serviços and Mastercard developed a
co-branded contactless card for cross-border payments, particularly for business people.20 In
addition, the United States Government Agency for International Development (USAID) and a
phone company, Africell, initiated a project ‘Digital Money is Better’ meant to expand the use of
mobile applications.21 Similarly, Angola’s National Bank (BNA) and the UNDP jointly convened a
workshop to promote digital inclusion in micro-business.22 These partnerships demonstrate the

6
14 Simon Kemp, “Digital 2023: Angola,” DataReportal, February 13, 2023, https://datareportal.com/reports/
digital-2023-angola
15 As above
16 Myles, , “Angola: Unitel accelerates the extension of the coverage of its telecommunications network ,” Extensia, December
13, 2023 https://extensia-ltd.com/2023/12/13/angola-unitel-accelerates-the-extension-of-the-coverage-of-its-telecoms-network/
17 As above
18 Winston Qiu, “Unitel lands 2 Africa Subsea Cable in Angola,” August 3, 2023 https://www.submarinenetworks.com/en/
LONDA systems/asia-europe-africa/2africa/unitel-lands-2africa-subsea-cable-in-angola
19 Angola Press Agency, “Angola Long term strategy foresees greater inclusive digital education,” June 8, 2023 https://allafrica.
2023
com/stories/202306090261.html
DIGITAL 20 Vaughan O’Grady, “Digital Transformation Initiatives on the way in Angola,” August 8, 2023 https://developingtelecoms.
RIGHTS AND com/telecom-technology/customer-management/15344-digital-transformation-initiatives-on-the-way-in-angola.html
INCLUSION 21 As above
IN AFRICA 22 Angola Press Agency, “Angola: Bna, UNDP Promote Digital Inclusion in Micro-Business,” June 4, 2023 https://allafrica.com/
REPORT stories/202306060068.html
 importance of international development agencies and the private sector in advancing digital
technologies in Angola.
Despite considerable progress in digital inclusion, digital technologies, data protection, and
cybersecurity gaps still affect people’s digital rights in Angola. Between May and June 2023, the
Angolan Kwanza depreciated by 40% against the USD owing to lower oil revenues and larger
external debt servicing.23 The economic crisis faced by Angola in 2023 affected the cost of data
information and communication technologies, limiting access to the Internet.24 High prices, lack of
internet signal and network instability affect internet and mobile technology access.25 Due to the
worsening economic situation, the digital divide could widen based on gendered differences, social
stratification and geo-location.
Only 73,7% of the urban population and 7,3% of the rural population in Angola have access to
electricity.26 In areas facing electricity challenges, constant power outages affect access to the
Internet, further widening the digital divide.27 Resultantly, even in cases where free internet points
are provided, limited access to electricity affects access to the Internet. In addition to the challenges
relating to the cost of living and electricity outages, it is worth noting that the government of Angola
remains the biggest player in the telecommunications industry. Despite commitments to privatise
the biggest mobile network provider, UNITEL, which is owned by the State Assets and Participations
Management Institute (IGAPE) and the state oil company, Sonangol, the company remains in the
hands of the government.28 The state’s continued control of the mobile provider compromises
digital freedoms and affects fair practice in the broader environment.
The delays in registering Starlink, an alternative internet provider, also limits access for the population.
Initial predictions were that Starlink would start operating in the 3rd semester of 2023. However,
delays in the regulatory approval from the Angolan Institute of Communications (INACOM) affected
the operations.29 The service provider is expected to begin operations in the last trimester of 2024.

Developments in ICT and emerging technologies

Developments in Information and Communication Technology and emerging technologies
in Angola were underway in 2023, with the government and private sector trying to harness the
potential of new and emerging technologies. Investments have been made to expand and improve
the telecommunications infrastructure. During the period under review, the Angola online project,
an initiative the government promoted, continued establishing hotspots across the country. Angola-
online was established in 2014 to increase access to digital technologies and enhance digital
literacy, particularly among traditionally marginalised groups.30 Additionally, 2023 saw the launch of
‘Conecta Angola’ during the International Forum for Information and Communication Technologies
in Angola (ANGOTIC), which aims to establish two access points per province to make internet
available in higher population density areas.31 The project, which is coordinated by the Ministry
of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication, established eight

7
23 The World Bank, Angola Overview https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/angola/overview
24 Interview with a Key Informant held in December 2023.
25 Freedom on the Net (2023)
26 Freedom on the Net (2023)
27 As above
LONDA 28 JF Sebastião TV CABO and UNITEL among the companies to be privatized in 2023, 04May 2023
https://www.menosfios.com/en/tv-cabo-e-unitel-entre-as-empresas-a-privatizar-em-2023/
2023
29 Ferreira Manuel Starlink só deverá estar disponível em Angola em 2024 6 November 2023
DIGITAL https://pti.ao/starlink-so-devera-estar-disponivel-em-angola-em-2024/
RIGHTS AND 30 Bizz Community, “Project ‘Angola Online’ officially launched,” September 13, 2014 https://www.bizcommunity.com/
INCLUSION Article/7/16/118808.html
IN AFRICA 31 Jornal de Angola, “Conecta Angola prevê internet para mais de 30 mil cidadãos,” January 27, 2024 https://www.jornaldean-
REPORT gola.ao/ao/noticias/conecta-angola-preve-internet-para-mais-de-30-mil-cidadaos/
 internet kits in 2023 in Belo Horizonte (Bie), Canzar (Lunda Norte), Sombo (Lunda Sul), ITEL
(Luanda), Jamba Cueio and Dirico (Cuando Cubango) to provide free wireless hotspots.32
Conecta Angola uses the Angosat 2 satellite.33 Angosat is a communication satellite launched on
October 12, 2022 by the Angolan government, with testing of its telecommunications services
conducted in January 2023.34 In 2023, Angosat was commercialised to enable national and
international operators to provide telecommunications services and expand access in offline areas
while offering competitive prices.35Investment in expanding broadband networks and deploying
affordable and reliable internet services are essential for digital inclusion. The China Export and
Import Bank loaned the government of Angola $249 million for the Broadband Project to support
the country in implementing and expanding broadband.36 This project will increase infrastructure,
increasing gains across all sectors.
In addition, the government is making inroads to improve access to services provided by public
institutions. In 2023, following the 2022 signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the
Angolan government and a multinational company, Presight, the government announced a US$89
million investment in an Angolan National Cloud for data storage of government services and
information.37 The Cloud aims to ‘foster the digital development of the nation’s economy, improve
citizens’ perception of governance and government efficiency, bring citizens closer to government
actions, cultivate local talent in the use of information and communication technologies and cloud
services, as well as establish a basis for digital transformation across the country’s industry.’38

Data Protection and Cybersecurity

Angola has been enhancing data protection and cybersecurity measures, aligning with global trends
to address the challenges posed by the increasing digitalisation of information. The country has
enacted data protection legislation to safeguard individuals’ privacy and regulate the processing
of personal data. The Constitution of the Republic of Angola protects the Right to Privacy under
Article 32. In addition to the constitutional provision, the country enacted other laws governing data
protection, including Protection of Personal Data (Law 22/11), Electronic Communications and
Information Society Services Law (Law 23/11), Protection of Information Systems and Networks
(Law 7/17) and Presidential Decree 214/16 of October 10/16 on rules governing the structure
of the regulatory body.39 The Angolan Data Protection Authority (APD) generally oversees and
enforces data protection regulations. It is crucial to ensure compliance with data protection laws
and promote awareness. The laws include transparency, purpose limitation, data minimisation,
accuracy, storage limitation, integrity, and confidentiality. Organisations are expected to adhere
to these principles when processing personal data. The Data Protection Law does not contain
a mandatory breach notification requirement. However, the Electronic Communication and
Information Society Services Law mandates companies offering communication services that are
accessible to the public to notify APD and INACOM (the Electronic communications authority) of
any intentional or reckless breach of security, including non-authorised access to personal data.40

32 As above.
33 As above.
34 GGPEN, “Angostat-2 capabilities”, https://ggpen.gov.ao/?page_id=7887
35 Simon Kemp, “Digital 2023 Angola,” February 13, 2023 https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2023-angola
LONDA 36 Angola Press Agency, “Angola: China grants USD249 million loan for Broadband Project in Angola,” January 1, 2023 https://
allafrica.com/stories/202301120264.html
2023
37 360 Mozambique, “Angola: New $89 M ‘Cloud’ to store and facilitate access to gov-
DIGITAL ernment data and services,” February 17, 2023 https://360mozambique.com/world/angola/
RIGHTS AND angola-new-89m-cloud-to-store-and-facilitate-access-to-government-data-and-services/
INCLUSION 38 As above
IN AFRICA 39 Angola Data Protection Overview https://www.dataguidance.com/notes/angola-data-protection-overview
REPORT 40 DLA Piper, “Data Protection Laws of the World Angola,” February 5, 2024 https://www.dlapiperdataprotection.com/system/
 No major developments occurred regarding the data protection and cybersecurity legislative
framework.
At the Forum on Cybersecurity, the Minister of State for Economic Coordination highlighted that
Angola was creating a National Cybersecurity Strategy which includes a cybersecurity agency and
observatory and establishing a Cybersecurity Academy.41 Investing in a clear national strategy and
equipping people with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in cybersecurity will strengthen
the country’s overall cybersecurity posture. In addition, the Minister highlighted the need to raise
awareness and educate the population about the importance of cybersecurity.42 Promoting
awareness about cybersecurity best practices and providing training programs to individuals and
organisations contributes to building a cyber-resilient society. Capacity-building initiatives are
crucial for enhancing the country’s overall cybersecurity. The President of Angola reiterated the
need for a Cybersecurity Academy in recognition of the pertinence of addressing cybersecurity in
the country.43 Organisations in Angola must stay informed about the evolving regulatory landscape,
comply with data protection laws, and continually assess and strengthen their cybersecurity
measures.

Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF)

Angola established a fund to support the development of communications (FADCOM), with
sources of revenue from contributions by operators to the Universal Service and Access Fund
(USAF), state appropriations, and donations.44 FADCOM was created in 2010 through Presidential
Decree 264/10 ideally to contribute towards the expansion of telecommunications networks
and ensure universal access through the promotion of telecommunications and information and
communication technology (ICT) services.45 Typically, the Fund is financed through contributions
from the telecommunications service providers operating in the country, which are calculated as a
percentage of the providers’ revenues and are directed towards the development of universal service
projects. As per regulations, the fund receives 1% of annual income from telecommunications
companies, yet there is no clarity on how much FADCOM has and how these resources are
used.46 Assessing and monitoring the Fund is difficult because it needs more transparency and
accountability. The Fund’s exact amount is unknown as this information is not readily accessible.
However, as highlighted in sections on Digital Inclusion of People and Development in ICT and
emerging technologies, the government made notable strides to improve access, including
continuing with Angola-online, setting up Conecta Angola and investing in the country’s national
cloud. In January 2022, the government approved the restructuring of public funds, including
FADCOM, yet by May 2023, the restructuring process had still not been implemented.47 How the
USAF will be managed after the restructuring is still unclear. Efforts to get additional information
and comments regarding the fund and its operation were fruitless.

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modules/za.co.heliosdesign.dla.lotw.data_protection/functions/handbook.pdf?country-1=AO
41 Lusa/Verangola, “Angola is preparing a National Cybersecurity Strategy against Cyber Attacks,” May 10, 2023 https://
www.verangola.net/va/en/052023/Telecommunications/35500/Angola-is-preparing-a-National-Cybersecurity-Strategy-against-
cyberattacks.htm
42 As above
LONDA 43 Africa Indilpomacy News, “Angola’s President launches Cybersecurity Initiative,” June 21, 2023 https://indiplomacy.
com/2023/06/21/angolas-president-launches-cybersecurity-initiative/
2023
44 UNESCO, “Angola Technology,” May 22, 2023 https://education-profiles.org/sub-saharan-africa/angola/~technology
DIGITAL 45 Jornal de Angola, “Fundo sem visibilidade é pago pelos operadores” 08 October 2010, https://www.jornaldeangola.ao/ao/
RIGHTS AND noticias/fundo-sem-visibilidade-e-pago-pelos-operadores/
INCLUSION 46 As above.
IN AFRICA 47 Teresa Gando, “Restruturação dos Fundos Público está a andar muito “devagarinho”” May 12, 2023, https://expansao.
REPORT co.ao/empresas/interior/restruturacao-dos-fundos-publico-esta-a-andar-muito-devagarinho-113124.html
 Conclusion &
Recommendations
Conclusion
The successful development of ICT in Angola requires continued collaboration between the
government, private sector, educational institutions, and the community. Ongoing efforts in
these areas contribute to the country’s technological advancement and economic development.
Fostering digital inclusion in Angola requires a holistic approach that addresses infrastructure,
education, accessibility, and collaboration between various stakeholders. As technology
advances, efforts to bridge the digital divide will be essential to ensure that all individuals can fully
participate in the digital age and enjoy their rights. In light of the findings from the research, the
following recommendations are made;

Recommendations

Government » Prioritise increasing access to electricity for both urban and rural
communities to implement digital inclusion programs effectively.
» Partner with the private sector to accelerate digital growth and curb
cybersecurity effectively within the confines of human rights. The
government should implement measures to safeguard critical assets,
including telecommunications networks, energy grids, and financial
systems, from cyber threats.
» eEnsure that legislation addressing cybercrime is in place to define
offences, penalties, and procedures for investigating and prosecuting
cybercrime.
» Ensure that USAF contributions from service providers are collected,
allocated and utilised efficiently in line with universal service and
10 access objectives.
» Issue accessible reports to the general public outlining how the USAF
resources are distributed and utilised.
» Update the Data Protection Law to include a provision which mandates
companies to report any data breach within 24 hours.
» Prioritise the capacity-building of public officials in digital technologies
LONDA and cybersecurity.
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 Civil society » monitor digital inclusion initiatives to ensure greater transparency and
accountability from the government, particularly concerning the USAF.
» Prioritise programming focusing on raising awareness of digital rights
and digital inclusion.

Private Sector » The private sector should invest in advancing community access
to ICTs by expanding broadband access. The private sector,
particularly telecommunication companies which contribute to
the USAF, should monitor how the resources are used and push
for greater transparency and accountability from the government.

Academia » There is a need for more research into digital rights in Angola with a
deliberate focus on the USAF. Mainly, academics should focus on how
the Fund is used and monitored and its effectiveness in bridging the
digital gap.

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