Poor infrastructure is one of the key obstacles to Angola's economic recovery. Large parts of Angola are almost completely inaccessible - roads, bridges and railways are either mined, washed away or were destroyed during the war.

Poor infrastructure is also hampering the delivery of humanitarian aid and basic health and education services. Government officials and aid agencies say they cannot reach many vulnerable communities because of transport problems. Many agencies have to transport people and goods by air.

Huge transport costs push the price of basic commodities and medicines beyond the reach of many Angolans.

Poor infrastructure has also affected water and electricity supplies - electricity pylons, dams and reservoirs were mined during the war.

In May 2005, the World Bank said Angola needs up to $30 billion over the next decade to rebuild its war-shattered infrastructure.

The government has begun a major road, school and health centre building programme funded by a $2 billion loan from China secured against oil revenues.

Maps of Angola: