Angola Online free internet project launched in Luanda

The Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technologies in Angola, working in solidarity with the National Center for Information Technology, has declared the commencement of their ambitious digital endeavor – “Angola Online”. The goal of this project is to bring internet access to five million inhabitants of this southern African nation by the end of 2017.

This wide-spanning initiative plans on installing free Internet access points throughout areas with high population density spread across the entirety of the nation. The project was declared open at an official ceremony organized at School Ngola M’bandi in Luanda this week. This event was graced with the presence of the Minister of Telecommunications and Information Technology, José Carvalho da Rocha, who presided over the function.

The initial phase of the project is set to cover Luanda’s Cazenga Historic Landmark area, Independence Square, Casa da Juventude de Viana, Samba Recreation Park, Largo Schools, High Institute of Telecommunications (Itel), Largo da Igreja São Domingos, as well as the University City and the Family Square. All citizens living in these zones will be entitled to two hours of gratis internet browsing on a daily basis in the aforementioned areas.

“This project will be expanded to other parts of the country, facilitating further engagement with the digital world and bringing forth an array of opportunities for more young individuals, particularly in schools”, expressed the deputy governor of Luanda for Technical Services and Infrastructure structures, Agostinho da Silva.

With the majority of Angolans still not connected to the internet, this effort represents a significant step towards digital inclusion in an era where connectivity is a crucial aspect of economic, social, and educational navigation. It is anticipated that this project will help bridge the digital divide in Angola while offering thousands of citizens the chance to explore possibilities offered by the digital sphere – from online learning, facilitation of business opportunities to social interactions and beyond.

Furthermore, Angola – being one of the top oil-producing countries in Africa – has seen significant economic growth over the years and this move aligns with its vision to build a diverse and robust economy, with a strong focus on digitalization and information technology as one of the pillars of development.

While this is a significant step in the right direction, implementation and accessibility will be key to realising this vision for the nation. Digital literacy programs need to go hand in hand with such initiatives to truly bring about a digital revolution in Angola.

*This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities.*