Huambo - The traditional Olundongo dance style, which reflects the history and traditions of the Ovimbundu people, has been declared National Intangible Cultural Heritage, ANGOP has learned.

The Ministry of Culture's declaration was published in the state gazette on April 10, 2025.

Characteristics

It is a dance style of the nobles, used in the enthronement of kings, reception of protocolary entities of the State and in the important ceremonies of the ombalas.

It is a popular dance in the provinces of central/southern Angola, such as Benguela, Bié and Huambo, with greater expression in the latter region of the country, which has five kingdoms (Bailundo, Chingolo, Chiyaca, Huambo and Sambo). 

The dance is linked to the Umbundu oral tradition, as a way of passing on stories, values and teaching about community life.

Huambo province, with 123 catalogued historical monuments, has eight sites of historical and cultural interest, while others are still in the process of being classified.ALH/TED/AMP