Dating culture in Angola, like in many African countries, is influenced by cultural and traditional values. In Angola, dating is a significant part of the socialization process, with couples typically meeting through social gatherings, mutual friends, or family connections. Men are expected to initiate the first conversation and pursue the woman they are interested in. It is also customary for a man to approach the woman’s family to request permission to date her.
In Angola, the family is highly valued, and their approval is essential in any romantic relationship. A couple is expected to introduce each other to their respective families early on in the relationship. Additionally, it is common for couples to go on chaperoned dates with family members present.
Dating in Angola is also influenced by religion. Thanks to colonization, the country has a significant Catholic population, and many Angolans prefer to wait until marriage before engaging in sexual activity. However, this view is not shared by all, and casual dating is becoming more common among younger generations.
Dating apps are not yet widely used in Angola, and most people prefer to meet potential partners through social events or mutual connections. Nonetheless, as the country becomes more connected to the digital world, online dating is gradually gaining popularity. Overall, dating in Angola is a blend of traditional values and modern influences.
Top 3 cities for singles in Angola
Even with a population of around 32 million people, dating culture in Angola may not be as well-established as some other countries. There are still plenty of opportunities for single people to meet and socialize.
- Luanda: As the capital city of Angola, Luanda is the most populous city in the country with over 7 million people. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs where locals and visitors can socialize and meet new people.
- Benguela: Located on the Atlantic coast of Angola, Benguela is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The city has a growing expat community, which makes it a great place for single people to meet new people from different cultures.
- Lubango: Situated in the southwest of Angola, Lubango is a picturesque city surrounded by mountains. The city has a more relaxed pace of life, which can be a great change of pace for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Luanda. There are also plenty of cultural events and festivals held in Lubango throughout the year, providing opportunities for single people to socialize and meet new people.
5 Facts about dating norms in Angola
- Marriage is highly valued in Angolan culture, and the majority of couples prefer to be married before starting a family.
- Traditional gender roles are still prevalent in Angolan relationships, with men typically being the providers and women taking care of the home and children.
- PDA (public displays of affection) are generally not accepted in Angolan culture and are considered inappropriate in public spaces.
- There is a cultural belief that the first child in a marriage should be a boy, and there are often celebrations to mark the birth of a male child.
- Dating is still relatively new in Angola, as arranged marriages were the norm for many years. However, with increased globalization and exposure to Western culture, dating has become more common among younger generations.
Most Romantic Day of the Year
Angolans follow Valentine’s Day, or February 14th. Typically, this day is celebrated by exchanging gifts, flowers, and chocolates among couples. However, it is worth noting that the concept of Valentine’s Day is relatively new to Angola, having been introduced by Western influences in recent years. Traditionally, Angolans celebrated romantic relationships and love through music, dance, and poetry, rather than with a specific day or holiday.
Typical First Date in Angola
In Angola, a typical first date could involve going to a restaurant, bar or coffee shop. Going to the movies or attending a cultural event are also popular options. Men often take the initiative and plan the date, and may pick up their date at their home or meet them at the agreed-upon location. Dressing nicely is important, and the man is expected to pay for the date.
During the date, conversation is key, and getting to know each other is the main goal. In terms of date progression, it is common for couples to go out to eat, have a few drinks, and then perhaps go dancing if they choose.
Physical contact and public displays of affection are generally reserved for more established relationships, and may not be appropriate on a first date. Overall, a first date in Angola is about getting to know each other and building a connection, rather than focusing on physical intimacy.
Is Angola LGTBQ friendly?
Historically, Angola was not very gay friendly. In fact, homosexuality was illegal until recently.
In the last decade, there have been some positive developments, such as the decriminalization of homosexuality in 2019 and the formation of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. ILGA has the most up to date information regarding the legality of homosexuality in Angola as well as other important news.
There still maybe stigma and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community in Angola, and many people feel that they must keep their sexual orientation or gender identity hidden. Same-sex marriage is not currently recognized in Angola, and there are no legal protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Overall, while there are some signs of progress, Angola still has a long way to go in terms of creating a more welcoming and accepting environment for the LGBTQ+ community.
Social cues and gender roles in Angola
In Angola, couples generally express their affection for each other in public, but they tend to be discreet about it. Holding hands, hugging, and kissing on the cheek are common ways for couples to show their affection for each other. However, more intimate displays of affection are generally considered inappropriate in public.
In terms of gender roles, traditional views of masculinity and femininity still prevail in Angola. Men are expected to be the primary breadwinners and protectors of their families, while women are expected to be nurturing and supportive. However, these gender roles are gradually changing, particularly among younger generations.
When it comes to dating, it is important to approach the other person with respect and be genuine. People in Angola generally value honesty and sincerity, and they tend to be straightforward in their communication. Building a sense of trust and mutual respect is key to building a successful relationship.
Top dating apps and websites in Angola
Online dating is relatively nascent in Angola. When compared to other regions, dating app usage in Angola and Africa as a whole is relatively low. Traditional dating customs and social cues are still prevalent. Additionally, some popular dating apps in other countries may not have a significant presence in Angola due to factors such as limited internet access or language barriers. That being said, here are our top 3 picks for Angola:
- Tinder
- Badoo
- Twoo