Radio Nacional de Angola (RNA) is Angola’s primary state-owned radio broadcaster, headquartered in Luanda. With a wide national footprint, RNA operates a variety of stations including Canal A (its main generalist channel), Radio 5 (sports), Ngola Yetu (cultural programming), Canal Internacional (targeting the Angolan diaspora), and Radio Luanda(capital-focused). Additionally, RNA manages an extensive network of provincial, regional, and municipal radio stations, making it the country’s most far-reaching audio broadcaster.
Media assets
Radio: National-Canal A, Ngola Yetu, Rádio Cinco, Online and Cultura; Local- 28 stations
State Media Matrix Typology
Ownership and governance
RNA is a government-owned entity operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication. Its strategic direction is set by a Board of Directors composed of seven members, all appointed by the President of Angola. The broadcaster is effectively integrated into the state’s communication apparatus, and its governance reflects the centralized control typical of Angola’s public media system.
Source of funding and budget
RNA relies overwhelmingly on state subsidies for its operations, with commercial revenue from advertising representing only a modest portion of its income. Key funding data include:
| Year | State Subsidy (AOA) | Equivalent (USD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 8.7 billion | $14.6 million |
| 2021 | 7.8 billion | $13.4 million |
| 2022 | 8.8 billion | $20.1 million |
In 2022, the government allocated an additional $40 million for RNA’s modernization, including the expansion of coverage and digital infrastructure upgrades. While no official 2023–2024 figures have been released, funding has reportedly remained stable and substantial.
Editorial independence
Although no explicit legal directive requires RNA to broadcast government-aligned content, the broadcaster’s editorial agenda is heavily influenced by the state. According to a 2024 content analysis conducted for this project, RNA’s coverage overwhelmingly prioritizes government messaging, with minimal representation of opposition voices or critical perspectives.
There is no existing legal framework or independent mechanism to safeguard RNA’s editorial autonomy. This lack of oversight, coupled with direct government involvement in management, has long raised concerns among press freedom advocates.
June 2025