AD Ports Group has officially kicked off its operations at the Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal, marking a significant move to expand its presence in sub-Saharan Africa. The company, which has partnered with local firms Unicargas and Multiparques, is set to play a key role in modernizing Angola’s port infrastructure and logistics services.
The Port of Luanda, where the terminal is located, is the country’s largest and one of the most important facilities, handling around 76 percent of Angola’s container and general cargo volumes. This strategic location not only serves local needs but also provides maritime access to neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia.
Through its joint ventures, AD Ports Group maintains stakes of 81 percent and 90 percent in the terminal and logistics operations, respectively. A significant milestone was reached when the company signed a 20-year concession agreement with the Luanda Port Authority back in April 2024. This agreement includes a commitment of approximately $250 million to modernize the terminal by 2026, with the potential for investments to grow to $380 million over the life of the concession.
Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the importance of these developments when he stated, “With the planned upgrade of Luanda’s multipurpose port terminal and establishment of an integrated logistics and freight forwarding business leveraging our Group’s global network and reach, AD Ports Group is positioned to capture the growth in Angola’s container volumes, which are forecast to rise on average by 3.3 percent annually over the next decade.”
AD Ports Group’s investment is not just about numbers; it’s also about creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. The planned projects are anticipated to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs for locals and provide opportunities for training and skills development. This aspect is integral to ensuring the local workforce can meet the demands of the growing logistics sector.
The Angolan government has expressed strong support for this partnership. Ricardo Daniel Sandão Queirós Viegas de Abreu, Minister of Transport, highlighted the Port of Luanda’s role as “the main maritime gateway to Angola, a ... transform our logistical capabilities and drive economic growth across central west Africa.” His remarks underline the collaborative effort to modernize not just the port but also the country’s overall infrastructure and trade capabilities.
Under AD Ports Group's leadership, the Luanda port terminal is set for substantial upgrades, transforming it to handle general cargo, containers, and roll-on-roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. The upgraded facility will boast capabilities to accommodate Super Post Panamax vessels, recognized for their capacity to carry up to 14,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). This enhancement will facilitate increased trade and bolster Angola’s position as a logistical hub for broader regional markets.
Today, the commencement and transfer of business assets have taken place without disruption to terminal operations. AD Ports Group has pledged to maintain uninterrupted operations as they work on improving terminal efficiency and enhancing overall performance. Their commitment also includes implementing rigorous health and safety standards, demonstrated through the introduction of comprehensive Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) programs.
Environmentally sustainable operations are also part of the plan, as the company outlined equipment and technology investments aimed at reducing carbon emissions and creating greener operational practices. This integration of sustainability measures reflects global trends prioritizing environmental responsibility within industrial sectors.
Over the past three years, AD Ports Group has aggressively expanded its reach across Africa, announcing over $800 million in planned investments across multiple countries, including Egypt, the Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Angola. Their focus on strategic and meaningful expansion aligns with broader economic goals targeted toward enhancing trade connectivity and operational efficiencies.
This collaboration, with its significant financial backing and local partnerships, promises to reshape not only the Port of Luanda but also the broader Angolan economy by creating new business avenues and strengthening ties with international markets.