Transforming Porto Luanda: Expansion, Investment, and Digital Innovation

What specific investment opportunities exist for international investors in the expansion and technological advancement of Porto Luanda, particularly in areas such as the movement of containers and the optimisation of logistics that are aligned with this diversification strategy? 

Porto Luanda is the largest port in Angola, handling over 80% of the goods imported into the country. Our focus is on expansion and modernisation, and we have recently developed a Master Plan aimed at increasing cargo capacity. But this growth must be aligned with the significant investments we are planning. 

Our plan outlines an ambitious expansion, including the construction of a cruise terminal, a naval shipyard, and an increase in cargo movement beyond 30 million tonnes over the next 20 to 30 years.

Our goal is to position Porto Luanda as a competitive force among Sub-Saharan Africa’s leading ports.

A key part of this involves deepening the port, where depths currently range from 3.5 metres to 12.5 metres. We plan to dredge Porto Luanda to reach a depth of at least 16 metres, allowing us to accommodate fifth-generation vessels—large mother ships that currently cannot dock here. At present, we can receive vessels up to 330 metres, but with our planned investments, we aim to handle ships carrying between 8,000 to 12,000 tonnes. 

We have also taken strategic steps by concessioning the multi-purpose terminal, now operated by DP World under a 20-year contract. DP World will be making substantial investments, and while the exact figures are still being finalised, we anticipate a green light for these investments starting next year.

In addition, we have signed another concession contract with Abuda de Portes, which will operate another multi-purpose terminal previously managed by Unicargas. This terminal will see investments in the range of $250 to $300 million, significantly enhancing its loading and unloading capacity. 

Beyond these major projects, we are planning the construction of a naval shipyard, which will be crucial for maintaining medium-sized vessels, both for Porto Luanda and the wider region. Security and operational efficiency are also a priority. We have just completed the construction of a tower for surveillance and access control and have installed a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system to monitor all ship movements in and around the port. 

In short, Porto Luanda is undergoing a transformation.

Over the next few years, we will be making a series of strategic investments that align with our vision of modernisation, efficiency, and regional competitiveness.

The groundwork is being laid, and the future of Porto Luanda is set to be one of growth, innovation, and increased global connectivity. 

The implementation of digital solutions is crucial for modern port operations. What initiatives is Porto de Luanda undertaking to integrate advanced technologies, such as AI and data analytics, to improve efficiency, security, and overall competitiveness, and what opportunities do these advancements present for technology-focused investors? 

Over the past 10 to 15 years, we have been steadily modernising our port management systems, starting with GIAF, the Integrated Administrative and Financial Management system.

This was followed by Port Single Window, which greatly improved interaction and connectivity with port operators, streamlining processes and reducing congestion at the terminals. 

Building on this progress, we advanced to Logistic Single Window, an even more sophisticated platform that integrates the entire port community, including transit operators, truck drivers, funders, and other key stakeholders.

This system allows importers to complete payments and request truck drivers to collect their cargo remotely, eliminating bureaucratic delays and paving the way for a fully paperless port. We are on track to achieving this vision in the near future. 

A paperless port is not just about efficiency—it is also an environmental commitment.

Our environmental policy is focused on reducing CO₂ emissions, both from ships and through digitisation, in line with global sustainability goals set by the United Nations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To achieve this, we are working closely with the Port of Antwerp, which is advising us on obtaining certification.

By the end of this year, we expect to be certified, marking a significant milestone for Porto Luanda and setting a benchmark for ports in Angola.