TAAG Angola Airlines and LATAM Brasil codeshare expands travel options to Southern Africa

Travellers flying between Brazil and Southern Africa now have another option to consider, following a new codeshare agreement between TAAG Angola Airlines from Angola and Brazilian airline LATAM Brasil.

The partnership connects LATAM Brasil's domestic network with TAAG flights via São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU). It covers 57 Brazilian destinations, including Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza, Florianópolis and Foz do Iguaçu.

For travellers, the main advantage is the ability to book combined LATAM Brasil and TAAG itineraries, making it easier to travel from cities across Brazil towards Southern Africa via São Paulo and Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) near Luanda or OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

Eligible connecting itineraries also offer benefits such as coordinated check-in, baggage handling and passenger assistance during connections. The combined tickets are already being offered through TAAG's sales channels.

An alternative route to Southern Africa

The agreement could be particularly useful for Brazilian travellers heading to Angola, Namibia, South Africa and potentially other Southern African destinations. Johannesburg, in particular, provides extensive onward connections across the region.

TAAG and LATAM have also indicated that the partnership could eventually be expanded to include LATAM's international network in South and North America, potentially creating even more routing options between the two continents.

For now, travellers planning a Brazil–Southern Africa trip should compare the new TAAG/LATAM options with existing routes, particularly when looking for a convenient single-ticket itinerary.

 

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TAAG Angola Airlines launches direct Luanda–Guangzhou flights from June 2026

TAAG Angola Airlines is expanding its international network with the launch of a new direct route between Luanda and Guangzhou, strengthening air connectivity between Angola and China.

The Angolan flag carrier has confirmed that its inaugural service between Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ), located on the outskirts of Luanda and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) in China will take off on 23 June 2026.

The new route represents a significant milestone for business and leisure travellers, providing a direct link between Angola and one of China's most important commercial and manufacturing hubs.

What travellers need to know

The introduction of direct flights will reduce travel times and eliminate the need for connections through other African, Middle Eastern or European hubs.

Guangzhou is one of China's largest cities and serves as a major gateway for trade, business travel and tourism. The city is particularly popular among African entrepreneurs involved in import and export activities, while also offering visitors access to southern China's rich cultural heritage, modern attractions and world-class shopping opportunities.

For travellers from Angola and neighbouring countries, the new service will make reaching southern China considerably more convenient.

Strengthening Angola–China links

Tourism authorities and travel industry stakeholders are likely to welcome the new route, which opens up easier access for Chinese visitors wishing to explore Angola's diverse attractions, from the dramatic landscapes of Kalandula Falls and the Tundavala Gap to the country's Atlantic coastline and vibrant cultural heritage.

At the same time, travellers from Angola will gain a more convenient gateway to southern China, including Guangzhou's historic sites, renowned cuisine, modern attractions and easy connections to other destinations across the country.

For travellers from elsewhere in Southern Africa, the new service could provide an attractive alternative for reaching China via Luanda, while also encouraging multi-destination itineraries that combine experiences in both Angola and China.

Growing international network

The launch of Guangzhou flights forms part of TAAG's broader strategy to expand its long-haul network and improve connectivity between Africa and key global destinations.

The airline has invested heavily in fleet modernisation and network development in recent years, helping to strengthen Luanda's role as an important gateway between Southern Africa, Europe, South America and Asia.

Why this matters

The new Luanda–Guangzhou service offers travellers:

• A direct air link between Angola and southern China.
• Faster and more convenient journeys.
• Improved options for business travel and trade.
• Additional connectivity opportunities for passengers across Southern Africa.
• Greater access to one of China's leading economic centres.

As the inaugural flight approaches on 23 June 2026, the new route is expected to further enhance travel and trade links between Africa and Asia.

Travel Tip: Travellers heading to China should ensure that visa requirements, passport validity rules and any entry regulations are checked well in advance of departure.

Luanda Airport move almost complete: Final airline transfer to AIAAN set for March 2026!

Travelling to Angola in 2026? A major aviation change is now in its final phase. Luanda’s new Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) is now handling almost all international flights, with the last airline transfer scheduled for 01 March 2026.
For visitors, this marks the official end of passenger operations at the old 4 de Fevereiro International Airport.

99.9% of flights already operating from AIAAN

Angolan airport authorities confirmed that the transition from the old Luanda airport to the new AIAAN airport in the municipality of Bom Jesus in Icolo e Bengo Province is nearly complete.

Recent airline moves include:

• Royal Air Maroc
• Turkish Airlines
• ASKY Airlines

With these additions, 99.9% of international airline transfers are now finished.
The final airline to relocate is South African regional airline Airlink, with its move scheduled for 01 March 2026, completing the full airport transition.

Airlines now operating at Luanda’s new airport
AIAAN is already hosting most of the major airlines serving Angola, including:

• TAAG Angola Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal
• Emirates
• Air France
• Qatar Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Lufthansa
• Royal Air Maroc
• Turkish Airlines
• ASKY Airlines

What this means for travellers

This airport move is one of the biggest travel changes in Angola in decades. Here is what visitors should know:

Expect all flights to use the new airport
From March 2026, scheduled passenger flights will operate exclusively from AIAAN.

The airport is much further from the city
This is the biggest adjustment for travellers.

• Old airport: ~5 km from central Luanda
• New airport: ~40 km from central Luanda

Plan for 45–90 minutes travel time to reach the airport.

Allow extra transfer time
Traffic and ongoing infrastructure upgrades mean airport transfers must be planned carefully, especially for early departures.

Why this matters for tourism

The new airport removes one of Angola's biggest travel barriers and will help grow tourism and flight connections across Southern and West Africa.

If you’re flying to Luanda from 2026 onward, plan for Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN).

 

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Ramsar status secures Angola’s wetland that sustains the Okavango Delta!

Angola has designated Lisima Lya Mwono as its first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention - an important step for protecting the Okavango Delta, Botswana’s most popular and internationally renowned tourism destination.

Listed as Ramsar Site No. 2584, Lisima Lya Mwono covers over 53,000 km² in Angola’s central and southeastern highlands within the Zambezi biogeographical region. The wetland forms a critical watershed, feeding river systems that sustain the Okavango Delta and the Zambezi Floodplain. Safeguarding this upstream source is essential to maintaining the Delta's seasonal floods, biodiversity, and tourism value.

The site’s deep sandy soils naturally filter rainfall into clear, low-mineral streams, supporting vast Miombo woodlands and peatlands across a wider area of more than 110,000 km². Lisima Lya Mwono hosts exceptional biodiversity, including the endangered Genlisea angolensis, as well as cheetah, lion, African wild dog, and the critically endangered giant sable antelope.

Its freshwater systems support over 18 endemic or near-endemic fish species and provide an important spawning area for African tigerfish—a species closely linked to the Okavango.

While Ramsar designation strengthens protection, water abstraction and poorly defined development remain potential threats. The announcement highlights a key reality: the long-term health of the Okavango Delta begins with protecting its Angolan source waters.

 

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South African Airways & TAAG Angola Airlines launch new codeshare agreement to boost regional & global connectivity!

South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa, and Angola’s state-owned TAAG Angola Airlines have announced a new strategic codeshare agreement designed to strengthen regional and long-haul connectivity across Africa, Europe, and South America. Ticket sales are now open, with travel under the new partnership having commenced on 01 December 2025.
This new collaboration positions Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Luanda as major connecting hubs, enabling easier, faster, and more convenient travel for passengers across the combined networks of both airlines.

Expanded route access for seamless travel
Under the partnership, SAA will place its flight code on TAAG-operated services from Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT) to Luanda (LAD). Travellers also gain smooth onward connections from Luanda to two key intercontinental destinations:

• Lisbon, Portugal
• São Paulo, Brazil

In return, TAAG customers will enjoy access to several important points within SAA’s Southern African network, including:

• Durban (DUR)
• Gqeberha (PLZ)
• Cape Town (CPT)
• Harare (HRE)
• Lusaka (LUN)

One ticket, one journey: A better passenger experience
The codeshare agreement allows both airlines to jointly market and sell tickets, offering travellers:

• A broader selection of destinations
• The convenience of booking a single ticket in their local currency
• Integrated check-in and baggage handling
• Smoother connections between regional and international flights

Overall, the partnership delivers enhanced flexibility and a more streamlined travel experience across both airline networks.

Strengthening intra-african connectivity
Beyond passenger benefits, the SAA–TAAG cooperation supports wider goals of improving air connectivity across Africa. The agreement facilitates easier movement for business travellers, boosts tourism flows between Southern and Central Africa, and strengthens trade and diplomatic ties. By improving access to regional and global markets, the partnership contributes to economic growth and enhanced international engagement.

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6th World Culinary Awards: These are Southern Africa's top restaurants 2025!

South Africa has once again proven its status as a global culinary hotspot, sweeping top honours at the 6th World Culinary Awards. This prestigious international initiative recognises excellence across the culinary industry, celebrating restaurants, chefs, and destinations that define the art of food. 
Like in the previous year, South Africa was crowned Africa’s Best Culinary Destination 2025, while Cape Town earned the title of Africa’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025. These accolades reflect the country’s growing reputation for world-class dining experiences, diverse cuisines, and innovative culinary offerings.

Africa’s Best Restaurants of 2025 (South Africa only)
The awards highlighted excellence across multiple countries and categories, showcasing South African establishments exclusively:

• Africa’s Best Restaurant 2025: FYN (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Rooftop Restaurant 2025: The 11th Floor (Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best New Hotel Restaurant 2025: Guild Restaurant @ Steyn City Hotel by Saxon (Steyn City, Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best Chinese Cuisine Restaurant 2025: The Red Room at Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best French Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Le coin Français by Darren Badenhorst (Franschhoek)
• Africa’s Best New Restaurant 2025: Amare (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Qunu @ Saxon Hotel, Villa & Spa (Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best Fine Dining Experience 2025: MERTIA (Stellenbosch)
• Africa’s Best Indian Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Thali (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Landmark Restaurant 2025: Life Grand Cafe Waterfront (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Japanese Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Nobu Cape Town (Cape Town)

From rooftop gems in Johannesburg to fine dining experiences in Stellenbosch, South Africa's culinary landscape continues to impress both local and international food lovers.

Southern Africa’s top culinary establishments by country:
The awards also celebrated outstanding restaurants and hotel dining experiences across Southern Africa, highlighting the region’s growing culinary excellence:

• Angola:
• Angola’s Best Restaurant 2025: Café Del Mar (Luanda)
• Angola’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Kimera @ EPIC SANA Luanda (Luanda)
• Botswana:
• Botswana’s Best Restaurant 2025: Table50Two (Gaborone)
• Botswana’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Xigera Restaurant @ Xigera Safari Lodge (Masarwa, Okavango Delta)
• Eswatini:
• Eswatini’s Best Restaurant 2025: Ramblas Restaurant (Mbabane)
• Eswatini’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Together & Co. Restaurant @ Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane (Mbabane)
• Mozambique:
• Mozambique’s Best Restaurant 2025: MOOD Restaurant & Bar (Maputo)
• Mozambique’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Clube Naval @ Avani Pemba Beach (Pemba)
• Namibia:
• Namibia’s Best Restaurant 2025: Jetty 1905 (Swakopmund)
• Namibia’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Stratos Restaurant & Bar @ Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino (Windhoek)
• South Africa:
• South Africa's Best Restaurant 2025: FYN (Cape Town)
• South Africa's Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Qunu @ Saxon Hotel, Villa & Spa (Johannesburg)
• South Africa's Best Culinary Experience 2025: The Waterside (Cape Town)
• Zambia:
• Zambia’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: The Theatre of Food @ Avani Victoria Falls Resort (Livingstone)
• Zimbabwe:
• Zimbabwe’s Best Restaurant 2025: Victoria Twenty Two (Harare)
• Zimbabwe’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Livingstone Room @ The Victoria Falls Hotel (Victoria Falls)

A Celebration of culinary excellence
The winners were determined following a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. Votes were cast by both industry professionals and the general public, with the top nominee in each category earning the coveted title. These awards underscore Southern Africa’s dedication to world-class hospitality and innovative cuisine, positioning the region as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

With Cape Town leading the way as Africa’s premier culinary city and neighbouring countries showcasing outstanding restaurants, travellers can look forward to an unforgettable gastronomic journey - from traditional South African flavours to globally inspired culinary masterpieces across the region.

Congratulations to all the winners for raising the bar and showcasing the best of Southern Africa’s food culture.

 

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TAAG Angola Airlines to fully move operations to Luanda’s new international airport on 19 October 2025!

TAAG Angola Airlines has announced that it will fully transfer its international flight operations to the new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) on 19 October 2025. This move marks the long-awaited completion of the airline’s phased transition to Luanda’s modern aviation hub.

From this date, all flights to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lisbon, São Paulo, Lagos, Windhoek, São Tomé, Maputo, Nairobi, and seasonal routes such as Porto and Havana will operate exclusively from the new airport. To support travellers, shuttle services from the old Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) will be available during the transition.

About the new airport
The Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN), located approximately 40 km southeast of Luanda, is set to become one of Africa’s largest and most modern aviation hubs. Designed to handle up to 15 million passengers annually, the facility is expected to strengthen Angola’s role as a strategic connector between Africa, Europe, and South America, offering modern terminals, improved check-in systems, and enhanced passenger amenities.

Delayed transition
Originally, the Angolan government planned to complete the migration of all international flights by 1 June 2025. However, the deadline was pushed back to September 2025 and then to October 2025 due to incomplete infrastructure and operational challenges, particularly concerning road access and airport logistics.

The move to AIAAN represents a significant milestone for Angola’s aviation sector, promising smoother travel experiences and better connectivity for both regional and international passengers.

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Angola: TAAG Angola Airlines delays international flight move to new Luanda airport!

TAAG Angola Airlines has officially announced a postponement of its move of all international flights from Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) to the brand-new Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN). The transfer, which was originally scheduled for 15 September 2025, will no longer go ahead on that date, marking yet another shift in Angola’s ambitious airport transition timeline.

Background: Angola’s new aviation gateway
Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN), located about 40 km southeast of Luanda, is set to become one of the largest and most modern aviation hubs in Africa. Designed to handle 15 million passengers annually, the facility is expected to boost Angola’s role as a strategic connector between Africa, Europe, and South America.
Originally, the Angolan government planned to complete the migration of all international flights from 01 June 2025, but that target was pushed back to October 2025 due to incomplete infrastructure and operational challenges, particularly regarding road access and logistics.

TAAG’s shift in timeline
In June 2025, TAAG Angola Airlines had reassured passengers that all its international flights - including routes to Lisbon, São Paulo, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lagos, Windhoek, São Tomé, and Maputo  - would be transferred to the new airport from 15 September 2025, with Brazzaville and Kinshasa already operating from AIAAN.
However, the airline has now officially postponed this transfer due to "the ongoing optimisation of operational conditions for the transfer", aligning more closely with the government’s October 2025 timeframe. No new fixed date has been announced yet.

What passengers need to know:

• Until further notice, all TAAG Angola Airlines international flights will continue to depart and arrive at Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD).
• Travellers booked for flights after 15 September 2025 should check for updates directly with TAAG Angola Airlines.
• A new transfer date will be communicated once it is agreed with Angolan transport authorities and other stakeholders.

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TAAG Angola Airlines launches direct flights between Luanda and Nairobi!

TAAG Angola Airlines is strengthening its footprint in East Africa! Starting today, 01 September 2025, the national carrier of Angola will officially launch direct passenger flights between Luanda (Angola) and Nairobi (Kenya). The new route will operate three times a week, offering seamless travel between Southern and Eastern Africa.
The Luanda <> Nairobi flights will be operated with TAAG’s state-of-the-art Airbus A220-300, known for its fuel efficiency, comfort, and modern onboard experience. This move aligns with the airline’s broader fleet modernization strategy, which focuses on passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
TAAG’s expansion comes at an exciting time for Angola's aviation industry. From 01 October 2025, the airline will shift its main operations from Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) to the brand-new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) in Luanda. This state-of-the-art facility is set to become one of Africa’s most modern aviation hubs, enhancing connectivity across the continent.

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TAAG Angola Airlines to launch direct flights between Luanda and Nairobi!

TAAG Angola Airlines, the national carrier of Angola, is expanding its African footprint with the launch of a new direct route connecting Luanda (Angola) and Nairobi (Kenya). Beginning 01 September 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights between Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) in Luanda and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi.

• Luanda > Nairobi 
• Mondays: Departs 09:00 (WAT) > Arrives 14:50 (EAT)
• Thursdays & Saturdays: Departs 23:20 (WAT) > Arrives 05:10 (EAT) the next day
• Nairobi > Luanda
• Mondays: Departs 15:50 (EAT) > Arrives 19:40 (WAT)
• Thursdays & Saturdays: Departs 06:10 (EAT) > Arrives 10:00 (WAT)

Each flight has an approximate duration of 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Tickets for the new Luanda <> Nairobi service are now available through TAAG Angola Airlines’ official sales channels, including their website and travel agents.

This new route strengthens travel and trade ties between Angola, Kenya and East Africa, offering convenient morning and overnight options for both business and leisure travellers.

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TAAG Angola Airlines to fully relocate operations to Luanda’s new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) in September 2025! [update]

update (01 September 2025): TAAG Angola Airlines will shift its main operations from Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) to the brand-new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) in Luanda on 01 October 2025. 

TAAG Angola Airlines, the national carrier of Angola, has officially announced that it will complete the full relocation of its operations from Luanda’s Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) to the new state-of-the-art Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) on 15 September 2025. Located approximately 40 km east of Luanda in Bom Jesus (Icolo e Bengo municipality), the new airport marks a major leap in Angola's aviation development. The transition, which began in November 2024, is now entering its final phase, with Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) set to host TAAG Angola Airlines' high-traffic international routes to Lisbon, São Paulo, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lagos, Windhoek, São Tomé, and Maputo. These destinations join existing domestic connections and regional connections to Brazzaville (Republic of Congo) and Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo) already operating from the new hub. Constructed by Chinese contractors, Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) spans over 1,324 hectares and features two parallel runways capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747. With three modern terminals, 30 boarding gates (19 international and 11 domestic), and cargo facilities supporting up to 130,000 tons annually, the airport is designed to handle up to 15 million passengers per year—making it one of the largest and most advanced airports in Africa.

Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) is named after Angola's first President, António Agostinho Neto (17 September 1922 – 10 September 1979). 

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Angola: Fly Angola launched first international flights from Catumbela to Windhoek!

Fly Angola, a privately-owned Angolan airline, has introduced a new international route to Namibia. Starting 21 December 2024, the airline operates three weekly direct flights — on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — between Catumbela Airport (CBT) in Catumbela, a coastal city in Angola's Benguela Province, and Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek. This milestone marks the first international scheduled service from Catumbela Airport.

In addition to the direct connection to Windhoek, flights also continue to Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda.

• Luanda 07:30 > 08:30 Catumbela 09:20 > 12:30 Windhoek on Mondays & Fridays
• Luanda 11:30 > 12:30 Catumbela 13:20 > 16:30 Windoek on Wednesays
• Windhoek 13:20 > 14:30 Catumbela 15:30 > 16:30 Luanda on Mondays & Fridays
• Windhoek 17:20 > 18:30 Catumbela 19:30 > 20:30 Luanda on Wednesdays
  

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5th World Culinary Awards: South Africa named Africa's Best Culinary Destination 2024!

The winners of the 5th World Culinary Awards, the global initiative to recognise and reward excellence in the culinary industry, have been announced. South Africa was crowned Africa's Best Culinary Destination 2024, while Cape Town was named Africa's Best Culinary City Destination 2024.
Epice in Franschhoek was voted Africa's Best Restaurant 2024, Siba The Restaurant @ The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town was awarded Africa's Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant 2024, Salsify at the Roundhouse in Camps Bay was named Africa's Best Landmark Restaurant 2024, SALON in Cape Town won the category Africa's Best New Restaurant 2024, TANG V&A Waterfront in Cape Town was voted Africa's Best Asian Cuisine Restaurant 2024, Babel @ Babylonstoren in the Cape Winelands was named Africa's Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant 2024 and The 11th Floor in Bedfordview scooped the award for being Africa's Best Rooftop Restaurant 2024. Congratulations! The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. Votes were cast by culinary industry professionals and the general public, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named as the winner.

The winners of the 5th World Culinary Awards by country (Southern Africa):

Angola's Best Restaurant 2024
Restaurante KOOK Angola, Luanda
Angola's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
La Boqueria @ InterContinental Luanda Miramar, Luanda

Botswana's Best Restaurant 2024
Two Six Seven Kitchen + Bar, Gaborone
Botswana's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Xigera Restaurant @ Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta

Eswatini's Best Restaurant 2024
Ramblas Restaurant, Mbabane
Eswatini's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
The Lihawu Restaurant @ The Royal Villas, Ezulwini Valley

Mozambique's Best Restaurant 2024
Salt Restaurant & Bar, Maputo
Mozambique's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Bistro @ Avenida Hotel Maputo, Maputo

Namibia's Best Restaurant 2024
Ocean Cellar Oyster & Wine Bar, Swakopmund
Namibia's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Stratos Restaurant & Bar @ Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino, Windhoek

South Africa's Best Restaurant 2024
Epice, Franschhoek
South Africa's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Azure Restaurant @ The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town
South Africa's Best Culinary Experience 2024
Marble Restaurant, Johannesburg

Zambia's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Kubu @ The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, Livingstone

Zimbabwe's Best Restaurant 2024
Restaurant Johannes De Bruijn, Harare
Zimbabwe's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant @ Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls

Southern Africa: Consensus outlook for the major rainfall season from October 2024 to March 2025!

The Southern African Development Communtiy (SADC)* has released the official statement from the Twenty-Ninth Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF-29), which took place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 26 - 28 August 2024 to present a consensus outlook for the major rainfall season from October 2024 to March 2025.
According to the statement, the bulk of the SADC region, including Mauritius and central Madagascar, is likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall for most of the period of October to December 2024. The north-western part of the Republic of Congo (DRC) will experience where above-normal rainfall, while the remainder of the region, including the island states of Comoros and Seychelles, is likely to normal to below normal rainfall during this period of the 2024/25 season.
The period January to March 2025 is expected to have normal to above normal rainfall for most of the region. However, the south-western fringes of South Africa, south-eastern and western most of the Republic of Congo (DRC), north-western Angola, Tanzania, northern Zambia, northern Malawi, northern Mozambique and central western tip of Madagascar, as well as the Comoros and the Seychelles, are expected to experience normal to below-normal rains. Northern Madagascar is likely to receive above normal rainfall during this period of the 2023/24 rainfall season.

The temperature outlook covering the period from October 2024 to January 2025 indicates a highly likelihood for above normal temperatures in most parts of the whole SADC region.

Rainfall forecast for October to December 2024:

• Northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
• Increased chances of above-normal rainfall
• Central DRC, northern fringes of Zambia, eastern most Malawi, Tanzania, most of Mozambique and Zimbabwe
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Southern DRC, Angola, most of Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, western fringes of Zimbabwe, north-eastern South Africa, southern Mozambique and eSwatini
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Southern Namibia, southern Botswana, most of South Africa and Lesotho
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Southern Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Central Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Northern Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Mauritius
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Seychelles
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Comoros
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall

Rainfall forecast for November 2024 to January 2025:

• Western DRC and north-western Angola
• Increased chances of above-normal rainfall
• Central and southern Angola, eastern most DRC, North-western Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, most of Namibia western Malawi, central to southern Mozambique, eSwatini and north-eastern South Africa
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Central to south-western Angola, western coastal Namibia, most of central South Africa and Lesotho
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Bulk of Tanzania, eastern Malawi and northern Mozambique
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Southern Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Northern Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Mauritius
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Seychelles
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Comoros
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall

Rainfall forecast for December 2024 to February 2025:

• Northern fringes of Tanzania
• Increased chances of below-normal rainfall
• Northern DRC
• Increased chances of below-normal rainfall
• Most of Tanzania, north-eastern Mozambique, northern tip of Malawi, southern most DRC and Angola
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• South-eastern Angola, most of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, most of South Africa, Lesotho, eSwatini, and most of Mozambique
• Increased chances of normal to above normal rainfall
• South-western Namibia and south-western South Africa
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Southernmost Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Most of Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal
• Mauritius
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Seychelles
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Comoros
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall

Rainfall forecast for January to March 2025:

• Western DRC and north western Angola
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Eastern DRC, southern Angola, most of Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, most of South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini and most of Mozambique
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• South-western South Africa
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Tanzania, eastern fringes of DRC, northern fringes of Zambia, northern Malawi and northern Mozambique
• Increased chances of normal to below normal rainfall
• Southernmost Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Central Madagascar
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Northern Madagascar
• Increased chances of above-normal rainfall
• Mauritius
• Increased chances of normal to above-normal rainfall
• Seychelles
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal rainfall
• Comoros
• Increased chances of normal to below-normal raifall                   

* Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Eswatini (Swaziland), Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Angola: TAAG Angola Airlines increases flights to South Africa!

TAAG Angola Airlines, the flag carrier of Angola, is set to introduce additional flights to Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa. The airline will increase its daily service between Luanda and Cape Town by three addtional weekly flights from six to nine weekly frequencies, while flights between Luanda and Johannesburg will be increased by two additional flights per week from eight to ten weekly frequencies. The additional flights will commence on 04 September 2024.

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Angola: Passenger flight operations at Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) to begin in the last quarter of 2024! [update #3]

update (20 January 2025): The flag carrier of Angola, TAAG Angola Airlines, has announced that it will begin operating regional flights from new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN). Effective 01 February 2025, flights to Brazzaville (Republic of Congo) and Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo) will depart from the new airport. Also from 01 February 2025, domestic flights to Cuito, Moçâmedes, Catumbela, Ondijva, Menonque, Huambo, Lubango will be operated from Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN).

update (06 November 2024): TAAG Angola Airlines will start to operate domestic flights to Dundo, Saurimo, Luena and Soyo from Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) in December 2024 and complete the transfer of the remaining domestic and international links the new airport in the first quarter of 2025.

update (29 October 2024): The flag carrier of Angola, TAAG Angola Airlines, has announced that it is set to start operating domstic passenger flights from new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN). Effective 10 November 2024, flights to Cabinda Airport (CAB) in the city of Cabinda will depart from the new airport. Cabinda is located in the Cabinda Province, an exclave of Angola, separated from the main part of the country by a narrow strip of land belonging to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

According to the Angola Press Agency (Angop), the official news agency of Angola, the country's new Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) is set to begin passenger flight operations in the last quarter of 2024. The airport, which will gradually replace Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) in Luanda as Angola's main international airport, is located approximately 40 km east of central Luanda in the commune of Bom Jesus in the municipality of Icolo e Bengo.
Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) was inaugrated in November 2023. It was initially planned that domestic passenger flight operations begin in February 2024 and international flight operations in July 2024. This had to be delayed due to various reasons, The airport has been receiving cargo flights since January/February 2024.
Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN), which cost about US$ 3 billion to built, covers an area of 1,324 hectares. With an passenger capacity of 15 million travellers annually (10 million international and 5 million domestic) the airport is one of the largest airports in Africa. AIAAN has two parallel asphalt runways - the northern runway is 4,200 m long and 60 m wide, while the southern runway is 3,800 m long and 60 m wide. The airport has 31 boarding lanes, of which 19 for international services and 11 for domestic services, as well as nine conveyor belts for baggage storage, six of which are dedicated to international flights. The infrastructure further includes 26 counters of the Immigration and Foreigners Service (SME), a parking lot for 1,710 vehicles, as well as space reserved for shops. It also has 22 VIP lounges, a clinic and a first aid center attached to the passenger terminal.

Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) is named after Angola's first President, António Agostinho Neto (17 September 1922 – 10 September 1979).

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Qatar Airways increases flights to Luanda (Angola)!

Qatar Airways, the flag carrier of Qatar, has announced that it will extend the frequency of flights between Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha and Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda, the capital of Angola. According to the airline, Luanda will see a frequency increase from one weekly flight to four weekly flights with a combined service to N'djili Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa in the DR Congo which Qatar Airways will serve for the first time. The frequency increase on the Luanda route and the launch of flights to Kinshasa will both commmence on 01 June 2024.

• Doha 02:45 > 08:10 Kinshasa
• Kinshasa 09:40 > 10:55 Luanda
• Luanda 12:25 > 22:50 Doha

• Doha 09:20 > 15:40 Luanda
• Luanda 17:10 > 18:25 Kinshasa
• Kinshasa 19:55 > 05:45+1 Doha

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Namibia/Angola: Oshikango/Santa Clara Border Post to operate on a 24 hour basis! [update]

update (14 June 2024): According to the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, the Oshikango/Santa Clara Border Post between Namibia and Angola is set to operate 24 hours a day starting today. This makes the border post the third Namibian border to operate 24/7, joining Wenela (Zambia) and Mamuno-Trans Kalahari (Botswana). 

According to the national news agency of  Namibia, the Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), the Namibian Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Albert Kawana revealed today (28 March 2024) that the Oshikango/Santa Clara Border Post between Namibia and Angola will soon operate on a 24 hour basis. Preparations with the Angolan authorities are at an advanced stage.
The Oshikango/Santa Clara Border Post is located near the town of Oshikango in the Ohangwena region in North Central Namibia. According to the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB), the border post is open daily between 08:00 - 18:00. According to the Namibian Ministery of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, the border post opens daily at 08:00 and closes at 19:00. The Oshikango/Santa Clara Border Post is one of four border posts between Namibia and Angola. The other three are Ruacana, Omahenene and Rundu/Katwitwi.