Angola’s Transport Minister Praises Private Sector’s Role in Infrastructure Development

Luanda:The Minister of Transport, Ricardo de Abreu, emphasized the significant involvement of the private sector in transnational infrastructure investments, reinforcing Angola's commitment to host the 3rd edition of the Transport and Logistics Summit in 2027. According to Angola Press News Agency, de Abreu spoke at the closing of the 2nd edition of the Angola Hub Transport and Logistics Summit, which took place in Luanda from September 28 to 30. He noted that the private sector has become a strategic partner essential to the logistics industry. De Abreu pointed out that the public sector lacks the autonomy, financial capacity, and resources necessary to meet demand independently, underscoring the importance of a private sector willing to invest in Angola. He acknowledged the infrastructure gap as a widespread problem in Africa, requiring a transnational approach to facilitate large-scale investments and address logistical challenges. The minister highlighted the strong private sector presence at this year 's summit, noting the emergence of new operators, advancing projects, and ongoing private investments. He mentioned key agreements signed during the event, including one with the International Finance Corporation to enhance the Northern Corridor and another with Opaia Motors and the Sovereign Wealth Fund for an electromobility project. Additional initiatives include a partnership with Hemera Capital Partners to develop a "Data Room" for sector projects and a collaborative document on digital transformation with Huawei. A startup competition also took place, attracting over 300 applications for 24 positions, which de Abreu emphasized should be integrated into the larger industry ecosystem. He praised the progress of the Lobito Corridor, which is setting operational records and impacting multiple provinces, and mentioned plans to establish a connection to Zambia, following interest from the Zambian ambassador. The activation of the Northern and Namibe corridors with similar economic models is also underway. De Abreu credited the Ministry of Finance's support as crucial to Angola's development, backed by a robust financial system. He concluded by expressing the event's aim to transform Africa into a region of solutions, mobility, and connectivity.