PIP: Angola's population was estimated at 8.5 million in 1986, with an annual growth rate of 2.7%. Life expectancy is 42 years, and the infant mortality rate is 148/1000 live births. Only 30% of the population is literate. 75% of the work force is in the agricultural sector. Angola, a Marxist people's republic, is ruled by the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola-Labor Party. The gross domestic product was US$4.5 billion in 1985, with a real growth rate of 0%. Angola's average population density is 6.9 persons/square kilometer, but over 70% of the population is concentrated in the west, central highlands, and north. 3 ethnic groups--Ovimbundu, Bakongo, and Kimbundu--comprise 3/4 of the population. Angola has been politically unstable country since 1976 as a result of political maneuvering within the ruling party, civil war, and incursions by South African forces operating from Namibia. The economy deteriorated severely as a result of the abrupt transition to independence in 1975. However, Angola is one of the richest countries in sub-Saharan Africa in terms of its petroleum potential, rich agricultural land, and valuable mineral resources. Angola has nationalized most of the economy, although some private sector activity has been allowed to continue. Angolan government has emphasized to the population the need for austerity and increased production.