Area Code 232 – Zaire
The phone area code for Zaire is 232 (international format +244232). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Zaire
Geographic Overview
The area code 232 is the National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the province of Zaire in the Republic of Angola. This province is located in the northwest corner of the country, bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Atlantic Ocean. The primary administrative and commercial center is Mbanza-Kongo, the provincial capital, which is historically significant as the heart of the ancient Kingdom of Kongo. Other notable towns within this code include Soyo, a major oil hub, and N'zeto.
Dialing Formats
When calling a fixed-line number in Zaire, the international format is:
- International: +244 232 XXX XXX
- Domestic (within Angola): 232 XXX XXX
Note that the leading 0 is not used when dialing from abroad. Within Angola, you must include the area code even for local calls, as the national numbering plan requires it.
Caller Instructions
Calling from outside Angola: Dial your country's international access code (e.g., 00 from most European countries, 011 from the US/Canada), followed by Angola's country code 244, then the area code 232 and the subscriber number. For example, to call a number in Mbanza-Kongo, you would dial: 00 244 232 XXX XXX.
Calling from within Angola: Simply dial 232 followed by the subscriber number. For example: 232 XXX XXX.
Numbering and Overlays
Angola's fixed-line numbers are typically 9 digits long when including the area code (3-digit NDC plus 6-digit subscriber number). As of the latest ITU-T E.164 guidelines, there are no overlay codes currently assigned to Zaire. However, the rapid expansion of telecommunications services may lead to future numbering changes, so it is advisable to verify the current dialing procedures with your service provider.
Network and Services
Fixed-line services in Zaire are primarily provided by Angola Telecom, the incumbent operator. In recent years, there has been an increase in VoIP and mobile substitution, but the geographic code remains essential for reaching businesses and residences connected to the PSTN. When dialing from a mobile phone, the same international format applies, but be aware that international rates may vary depending on your carrier.