In a landmark move set to redefine Angola’s maritime landscape, AD Ports Group has forged strategic agreements with local entities Unicargas and Multiparques, securing a 20-year concession agreement with the Luanda Port Authority. This pivotal partnership marks a significant step towards modernizing and expanding the existing Luanda multipurpose port terminal, heralding a new era of efficiency and growth in the region’s logistics sector.
With an investment commitment of $251 million over the next three years, AD Ports Group is poised to revolutionize the terminal’s operations and infrastructure. The redevelopment plan encompasses a comprehensive upgrade, transforming the facility into a cutting-edge container and Ro-Ro terminal. Key enhancements include expanding the concession area, upgrading quay walls, deploying state-of-the-art equipment, and modernizing IT systems. Such improvements are geared towards boosting container handling volumes to 350,000 TEUs and Ro-Ro volumes to over 40,000 vehicles, cementing Luanda’s position as a vital trade gateway in Central-West Africa.
The significance of the Port of Luanda cannot be overstated. Currently handling more than three-quarters of Angola’s container and general cargo volumes, it serves as the linchpin of the country’s domestic economy. Moreover, as a crucial transshipment hub for the region, it facilitates maritime trade access to landlocked nations such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. Against the backdrop of projected annual growth in container volumes, the revitalization of this port terminal is poised to catalyze economic development and enhance trade connectivity across the region.
Central to AD Ports Group’s strategy is a focus on seamless operations during the terminal’s redevelopment. Temporary arrangements will ensure uninterrupted service delivery, with container volumes being handled at nearby berths and excess cargo diverted to Multiparques’ Viana inland container depot. This meticulous approach underscores the Group’s commitment to minimizing disruptions and prioritizing customer satisfaction throughout the transformation process.
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, AD Ports Group is poised to revolutionize the region’s logistics landscape through strategic partnerships and innovative service offerings. Collaborating with Unicargas, the Group will establish integrated logistics and freight forwarding services, catering to local, regional, and international clients. Leveraging Noatum Logistics’ global expertise and infrastructure, coupled with Unicargas’ local knowledge and assets, this venture promises to provide end-to-end supply chain solutions and unlock new growth opportunities across diverse markets.
This partnership is important for reasons other than just business. It represents the common commitment of the Angolan government and AD Ports Group to promote sustainable economic growth and improve the dynamics of regional trade. The alliance has been welcomed by Angola’s Minister of Transport, Ricardo Daniel Sandão Queirós Viegas de Abreu, as a transformative project that will enhance Angola’s standing in the international marine trade arena and promote economic vibrancy throughout Central-West Africa.
With an eye on the future, AD Ports Group is unwavering in its dedication to bolstering Angola’s wider maritime industries, which encompass the offshore industry. By deploying resources and infrastructure specifically designed to meet the demands of Angola’s marine environment, the Group hopes to promote more development and innovation in the industry through its marine & Shipping Cluster.
The AD Ports Group’s transformative partnership with Angolan stakeholders signifies a pivotal moment in Angola’s maritime evolution. By spearheading the modernization of the Luanda port terminal and pioneering innovative logistics solutions, the Group is poised to unlock new economic opportunities, enhance regional connectivity, and propel Angola towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
