Luanda: The first phase of the Barra do Dande Free Trade Zone Port Terminal will generate approximately 21,000 jobs, Adilson Catala, the Secretary of State for Civil Aviation, Maritime, and Port Sectors, announced on Monday in Luanda. Speaking at the signing ceremony for the investment protocol regarding the terminal's construction, the official highlighted that the project represents a strategic step toward transforming Angola into a leading logistics, industrial, and commercial hub in Africa.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the venture stems from the Executive's vision to diversify the economy and strengthen the transport and logistics sector within the framework of the 2023-2027 National Development Plan (PDN), which prioritizes the creation of a modern, efficient, sustainable, and integrated transport system. Adilson Catala explained that the protocol-signed by the Barra do Dande Development Company, Watong Angola Industry, and Berkshire Waterhouse Infrastructure Development-marks a milestone in the project's implementation.
He noted that the investment extends beyond the construction of the port terminal, envisioning an integrated ecosystem that encompasses port, industrial, logistics, commercial, and service activities. He added that the strategic location of Barra do Dande will enable the strengthening of international maritime links, serve the domestic market, and boost economic integration within Southern Africa and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Secretary of State affirmed that the Executive will continue to foster an investment-friendly environment based on regulatory stability, transparency, legal certainty, and good governance-factors essential for attracting private capital. It was emphasized that developing infrastructure of this scale requires a strategic partnership between the State and the private sector, combining investment, technology, expertise, and operational capacity.
In addition to the investment agreement, a commitment agreement was also signed for the sub-concession of integrated basic infrastructure at the Barra do Dande Free Trade Zone, covering energy, water, and telecommunications systems, as well as access infrastructure and logistics services. It was concluded that the Barra do Dande Free Trade Zone represents one of the country's greatest opportunities for economic development, as it contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of the national port system, diversifying the economy, attracting productive investment, and improving the population's living conditions.
