AD Ports Group Enhances Luanda Port In A $251M Upgrade To Stimulate Angola's Economy

In a significant move to enhance the logistics and cargo handling capabilities of Angola, AD Ports Group has inked a 20-year concession agreement with the Luanda Port Authority, alongside partnerships with Unicargas and Multiparques. This strategic collaboration aims at the operation and modernization of the Luanda multipurpose port terminal, a critical hub for Angola's container and general cargo traffic. With an initial investment of $251 million earmarked for the terminal's upgrade and logistics business development over the next three years, the total potential investment could reach $379 million throughout the concession period.

The Port of Luanda, responsible for handling more than three-quarters of Angola's container and general cargo volumes, is poised for transformation. This port is not only crucial for the nation's economy but also strategically located to tap into the expected surge in container volumes and act as a transshipment hub for Central-West Africa. The overarching goal is to evolve the port into a contemporary, versatile facility that boosts logistic capacities and propels economic growth across the region.

This ambitious project follows a framework agreement signed last year between AD Ports Group and the Government of Angola. The joint venture plans include upgrading the multipurpose facility to accommodate both container and Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) terminals, expanding the concession area, and enhancing equipment and IT systems. Slated for redevelopment completion in Q3 2026, these upgrades are anticipated to significantly increase container handling and Ro-Ro volumes. During this redevelopment phase, container operations will be temporarily relocated to a nearby berth, with overflow volumes directed to an inland container depot.

Furthermore, AD Ports Group's collaboration with Unicargas under this joint venture will extend to offering integrated logistics and freight forwarding services to a diverse clientele spanning local, regional, and international markets. This includes managing container movements and providing transport services within Angola and to neighboring countries. Noatum Logistics, a subsidiary of AD Ports Group, will take over management and operations of Unicargas' existing truck fleet and logistics sites, with plans to invest in new machinery and upgrade IT systems.

AD Ports Group is also exploring avenues to support Angola's burgeoning offshore industry and other maritime sectors through its Maritime and Shipping Cluster. With Angola's economy ranking as the sixth largest in sub-Saharan Africa, there is a substantial demand for significant cargo volumes within its domestic market. This venture not only promises to modernize one of Angola's key maritime assets but also aims to stimulate further economic development in a region poised for growth.

With inputs from WAM