Negage, Angola
Region: Uíge Province
Geographic Coordinates: -7.766700, 15.266700
Population: 137559
Language: Portuguese
Negage is a city located in the northwest region of Angola, Specifically in the province of Uíge. As one of the largest cities in the province, It serves as a vital commercial center for neighboring towns and villages. The city has an estimated population of 100, 000 people and covers an area of 1, 516 square kilometers. Negage has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times when it was inhabited by various ethnic groups like Bakongo and Mbundu. During colonial rule by Portugal, Negage served as a strategic military base due to its location near Congo’s border.
The city played a significant role during Angola’s war for independence from Portugal in 1975. Today Negage is renowned for its vibrant marketplaces where locals sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The main market is located at the heart of town and attracts vendors from all over the region. Visitors can find traditional Angolan food like muamba de galinha (chicken stew) or calulu (fish stew), As well as clothing, Jewelry, And souvenirs. The city also boasts several historic landmarks that offer insight into its past.
One such landmark is Forte de Negage built by Portuguese colonizers late in the 19th century to protect against attacks from neighboring kingdoms; today it serves as a museum where visitors can learn about local history and view artifacts from different periods. Another notable attraction is Cachoeira do Binga Waterfall located about 20 km outside Negage on Rio Loge River’s banks; this stunning waterfall offers breathtaking views surrounded by lush vegetation making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts or nature lovers who want to explore some hidden gems within Angola’s countryside.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Negage has several modern amenities catering to tourists’ needs like hotels ranging from budget-friendly options like Hotel Mucaba upmarket establishments like Hotel Teta. There are also various restaurants and cafes serving international cuisine, Making it easy for visitors to find something they like. Negage is a city that offers a unique blend of traditional Angolan culture and modern amenities, Making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore Angola’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in shopping at local markets or hiking through the countryside, Negage has something for everyone.
- The Ruins of Kambambe: A historic site dating back to the 16th century.
- The Cathedral of Nossa Senhora da Conceição: A beautiful church located in the heart of Negage.
- The Cangandala National Park: A wildlife reserve home to various species such as elephants, buffalos, and antelopes.
- The Tundavala Gap: A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Kissama National Park: Another wildlife reserve with various species such as lions, giraffes, and zebras.
- The Fortress of São Pedro da Barra: An old Portuguese fort built in the 17th century.
- The Museum of Sacred Art: A museum showcasing religious artifacts from around Angola.
- Serra da Leba Pass – a mountain pass with stunning views over the surrounding countryside
- Cuango River – river running through Negage offering boat tours
- Negage Waterfall – waterfall located near Cuango River
- Portuguese colonization: Negage was founded by Portuguese colonizers in the 16th century, becoming an important center for trade and agriculture.
- Slave trade: During the 18th and 19th centuries, Negage was a major hub for the slave trade, with thousands of enslaved people passing through its markets.
- Angolan Civil War: In the late 20th century, Negage was heavily affected by the war (1975-2002), with many residents being displaced or killed.
- Agostinho Neto: The first president of Angola, Agostinho Neto, was born in nearby Icolo e Bengo in 1922. He played a key role in Angola’s struggle for independence from Portugal.
- Antonio Agostinho Neto University: Located in Luanda but named after President Neto, this university is one of Angola’s premier educational institutions.
- Jonas Savimbi: A controversial figure during the civil war era who led UNITA (National Union for Total Independence of Angola), an anti-government rebel group that operated out of bases near Negage until his death in 2002.
- Mbanza Kongo Kingdom: This ancient kingdom once encompassed much of modern-day northern Angola and southern Congo; its capital city Mbanza Kongo is located about an hour’s drive from Negage.
- Augusto Ngangula: Born on July 30th, 1960, he served as Minister Of Transport And Communications from September to December, 1999.
- Pedro de Castro Van-Dúnem Loy: Born on January 11th, 1950, he served as Minister Of Defence From May to September, 1991.
- Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: A beautiful church built in the 18th century with a unique blend of Portuguese and African architectural styles.
- The Monument to the Fallen Heroes: A monument dedicated to Angolan soldiers who lost their lives during the country’s struggle for independence.
- Museum of Ethnography and History of Negage: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the region through exhibits and artifacts.
- Casa dos Pioneiros: A historic building that served as a residence for Portuguese colonial administrators during the 19th century.
- Art Center Nkandu ya Luanda: An art center that features contemporary Angolan art exhibitions and workshops.
- Cangola Waterfall: A stunning waterfall located about 30 km from Negage that offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
- Kalandula Falls: One of Angola’s most impressive natural wonders, Kalandula Falls is located about 100 km from Negage and is known for its stunning beauty.
- Malanje Provincial Museum: Located about 70 km from Negage, this museum showcases the cultural heritage of Malanje province through exhibits on traditional crafts, music, dance, and more.
- Festa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição: This is a religious festival celebrated every year on December 8th to honor the patron saint of Negage.
- Festival Internacional de Música do Bié: This is an annual music festival held in Negage that brings together musicians from all over Angola and other countries.
- Carnaval de Negage: This is a colorful carnival celebration held annually before Lent begins.
- Festival Nacional de Teatro Infantil: This is a children’s theater festival held annually in Negage to promote children’s theater and performing arts.
- Feira Agropecuária e Comercial de Uíge (FACU): Although not directly related to Negage, this agricultural fair takes place nearby every year and attracts visitors from all over Angola.
Please note that these events may be subject to change or cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances.
- After conducting research online, it appears that traditional Angolan dishes like funge (a starchy dish made from cassava flour), calulu (a stew made with fish or meat and vegetables), and moamba de galinha (chicken stew with palm oil) are popular in the region.
- Some recommended restaurants to try these dishes include Restaurante Oásis do Kwanza Sul, Restaurante e Bar Ponto Final, and Churrascaria Tio Pepe.
- It’s also worth noting that street food is a significant part of Angolan cuisine culture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of snacks like roasted corn on the cob, grilled meat skewers called espetadas or cachupa (a type of bean soup).
- Parque Nacional da Cameia: This national park is located about 100 km from Negage and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
- Jardim Municipal de Negage: This municipal garden is located in the heart of Negage and provides a peaceful oasis for visitors to relax and enjoy nature.
- Praia Fluvial do Rio Kwanza: This river beach is situated near Negage and offers swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
- Campo de Jogos Municipal de Negage: This municipal sports field hosts various sporting events such as football matches.
- Centro Cultural e Recreativo de Cazenga: This cultural center in Cazenga (nearby city) offers a range of recreational activities such as music concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions etc.
Please note that these may not be up-to-date or accurate due to changes over time or lack of recent information available online. It’s always best to check with local authorities or tourism boards for current information on attractions and events in any destination you plan to visit.
