Languages spoken in Benguela, Angola

Located on the west coast of Angola, Benguela is a city that has a rich cultural heritage. Although Portuguese is the official language of the country, there are many other languages spoken in Benguela due to its diverse ethnic composition.

Portuguese

Portuguese is the official language of Angola, and it is spoken by a significant portion of the population in Benguela. It is the language used in government offices, education institutions, and the media. Most people in Benguela can speak Portuguese, and it is used as a lingua franca between people who speak different native languages.

Ovimbundu

Ovimbundu is the most widely spoken language in Benguela. It is an Umbundu Bantu language and is spoken by around 40% of the population. It is also one of the largest ethnic groups in Angola. Ovimbundu is used as a medium of instruction in some schools, and it has a rich oral literature that includes proverbs, stories, and songs.

Nyaneka-Nkhumbi

Nyaneka-Nkhumbi is another language spoken in Benguela. It is a Bantu language and is spoken by the Nkumbi people who live in the southeastern parts of Angola. Nyaneka-Nkhumbi has dialectal variation, and it is also spoken in Namibia. The language has its own unique grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary.

Ngangela

Ngangela is a Chokwe language and is spoken by the Ngangela people who live in the northeastern parts of Angola. It is also spoken in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ngangela has around 300,000 speakers in Angola, and it is a tonal language that has noun classes and complex sentence structure.

Oshiwambo

Oshiwambo is not a language that is native to Benguela, but it is spoken by some people who migrated from Namibia to Benguela. It is an Umbundu language and is spoken by people who live in the northern part of Namibia. Oshiwambo has around 1 million speakers in Namibia, and it has been influenced by German, Afrikaans, and Portuguese.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Benguela is a city that has a diverse range of languages spoken due to its cultural and ethnic composition. Portuguese is the official language, but Ovimbundu, Nyaneka-Nkhumbi, Ngangela, Oshiwambo, and other languages are also spoken. Understanding the languages spoken in Benguela is crucial to understanding the city’s culture and its people. As a tourist, learning a few words of the local language can help you communicate with locals and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s culture.

Insider’s Guide to Benguela, Angola

Benguela is a port city in western Angola, famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse culture. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, Benguela boasts a warm, tropical climate and is home to some of the friendliest people in Africa. In this insider’s guide, we’ll introduce you to the city’s fascinating attractions, delicious cuisine, and unique cultural experiences.

Local Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Benguela is undoubtedly its beaches. Baía Azul and Praia Morena are the two most beautiful beaches in the city, offering pristine water and white sands. Another must-see attraction is the Benguela Railway Museum, which provides insights into the history of the railway in Angola.

Fortaleza de Sao Miguel is a fortress built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates. Today, it’s now open to visitors who can explore the castle’s various rooms, tunnels, and observation points. Another site of historical significance in Benguela is the Capela da Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, which dates back to the 18th century.

Nature lovers should also visit the Parque Nacional da Kissama, which boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy safari tours and witness the spectacular elephant population.

Dining Spots

Benguela has a vibrant food scene that’s influenced by both African and Portuguese cuisine. One of the best restaurants in the city is Oon.dah, which offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine, including grilled meat, seafood, and vegetarian options.

Churrasqueira Velha and Churrasqueira Imperio are two other popular choices for traditional Angolan barbecue. For those on a budget, the Benguela Municipal Market is the perfect spot to indulge in street food such as grilled sardines, fried yucca, and sugar cane juice.

Cultural Experiences

Benguela is a melting pot of different cultures, and visitors are encouraged to experience this diversity through the different art forms such as music, dance, and handicrafts. Capoeira Angola is an Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance form that’s very popular in the city, with many cultural groups offering performances and classes. Visitors can also learn to play traditional instruments like the marimba at the Casa da Cultura Paka Kano.

Local History

Benguela has had a turbulent history, and its past is evident in the architecture of the city. During the 16th century, it was colonized by the Portuguese, and its architecture reflects this, with many old colonial buildings still standing. Visitors should see the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Populo, the Igreja da Se, and the Palacio do Governador.

The city also played a significant role in the slave trade, and a visit to the Museu Nacional da Escravatura can offer startling insights into this dark period of history. The museum houses artifacts and documents dedicated to the slave trade, with presentations on the Middle Passage and life for slaves on Brazilian plantations.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors interested in exploring Benguela off the beaten path, head south to the Barra do Dande Beach. Not many tourists venture here as it’s quite a distance from the city center, but it’s well worth the trip for its secluded beauty.

Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Benguela Highlands. These hills offer an excellent opportunity to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle, perfect for a hike or picnic.

Conclusion

Benguela is a city filled with hidden gems that visitors can discover with ease. From its beautiful beaches to its rich cultural heritage, visitors are spoiled for choice with unique opportunities to explore the city. Travelers can take a step back in time and learn about the city’s history, revel in traditional dance and music performances, and devour delicious cuisine. Whatever you choose to do in Benguela, this insider’s guide ensures you’ll have a memorable trip.