AD Ports Group signs Angola development deals

AD Ports Group entered into a framework agreement with the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Angola and a Head of Terms Agreement with Angolan state-owned logistics and transportation company UNICARGAS.

The agreement with the Ministry of Transport is to work together on the development of infrastructure and maritime services across Angola. Potential areas for joint investment include a Maritime Academy in Angola, logistics platforms, ferry and cabotage services and maritime passenger terminals.

The development of Caio Deepwater Terminal at Cabinda Port, northwest Angola, will also be considered under the Ministry of Transport agreement.

A joint venture will be established under the Head of Terms Agreement with UNICARGAS to manage the multipurpose terminal at the Port of Luanda. AD Ports will take a majority ownership stake in the JV, with an aim of modernising the terminal along with managing and operating it. Luanda is Angola’s busiest port, handling over 70% of imports and 80% of non-petroleum exports.

AD Ports said the oil and gas sector in particular is set to benefit from the improved connectivity fostered by the deal.

Ricardo Viegas D´Abreu, Minister for Transport of the Republic of Angola said: “The development of the Republic of Angola’s port infrastructure is a key priority of our 2023-2027 National Development Plan. Modernising our port infrastructure is a vital step for Angola to maximise the potential of our natural resources and promote economic growth for the benefit of our people. We are delighted to enter into the framework agreement with AD Ports Group and to benefit from its established knowledge and expertise as a global maritime player.”

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Mohamed Eidha Tannaf AlMenhali, Regional CEO – Africa, AD Ports Group, said: “We are pleased to participate in the new joint venture to enhance and operate the multipurpose terminal at the Port of Luanda, leveraging the expertise we have developed at ports in the UAE and wider region. Working with UNICARGAS, we see significant opportunities to increase efficiency and boost capacity, deploying the latest innovations to enhance service levels and turnaround times.”