Malanje

Malanje is a province in north-central Angola. Its capital city, also named Malanje, serves as the administrative and economic center of the region. The province is known for its agricultural output, particularly coffee, cotton, and maize, benefiting from the fertile soils and favorable climate of the Angolan plateau. Historically, Malanje played a significant role in the Angolan slave trade before the abolition of slavery.

The landscape of Malanje is characterized by rolling hills, savannas, and a network of rivers, including the Kwango River, which forms part of its eastern border. The Pungo Andongo Falls, a series of dramatic waterfalls, are a notable natural attraction within the province. The province is also home to the Cangola Reserve, a protected area aimed at conserving local flora and fauna.

The population of Malanje is diverse, with several ethnic groups residing in the area, including the Ovimbundu and the Lunda. Portuguese is the official language, but several Bantu languages are also widely spoken. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with small-scale farming and livestock raising being common. Efforts are being made to diversify the economy and promote industrial development. Malanje province experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from October to April, bringing heavy rainfall, while the dry season occurs from May to September, characterized by lower temperatures and less precipitation.