Cabinda: President of the Republic, Joo Louren§o, assessed today the progress of the Caio Deepwater Port construction in Cabinda, which is 65 percent complete. The Head of State, who is in this province on a 48-hour working visit, received information on the construction of the project, which includes technical networks such as energy and water, a 750-meter dock, a breakwater, and port infrastructure covering approximately 1,400 meters, alongside a Free Trade Zone of about 300 hectares.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the Caio Deepwater Port is making significant progress in its construction, with the first phase scheduled for completion in December of this year. The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Port of Cabinda, Jos© Kuvingua, emphasized the strategic importance of the infrastructure for the economic development of the province and the country. The project has already reached 65.58% completion and 77.4% financial completion. Key construction milestones include the 500-meter trestle bridge, at 83.2% completion, the access jetty and its 1,500-meter widening, at 46.6% completion, and the 700-meter breakwater, at 75.38% completion.
The hydraulic fill is nearly complete at 98.2%. In the first phase, the infrastructure will feature a 700-meter dockable pier, a 45-hectare container yard, storage areas for general and project cargo, and a vehicle park. Plans also include a 25-kilometer, 15-meter-deep approach channel, a 600-meter-diameter maneuvering circle, and a 14-meter-deep berthing basin. The terminal was designed in accordance with the recommendations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), aligning with global demands for decarbonization and port digitalization.
Economic and Social Impact
The Port is seen as a catalyst for regional development, with the potential to generate up to 1,600 direct jobs in the initial phase of operations and indirectly create up to 30,000 jobs. Authorities estimate that the terminal's entry into operation could contribute a positive economic impact of 20% to Cabinda's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), reducing the provincial unemployment rate to around 16%.
With the port's entry into operation, a reduction in logistical costs is also expected, which could be reflected in lower consumer goods prices and, consequently, improved living conditions for the population, significantly impacting the reduction of poverty and inequality.
Strategic Perspective
The Caio Port is expected to become a key infrastructure for the diversification of Angolan exports, ensuring greater competitiveness for the country in regional and international markets. Its integration with the future Cabinda Free Trade Zone will strengthen the province's role as a commercial platform serving neighboring countries and other regions, offering greater operational efficiency, logistical convenience, and suitable conditions to attract investment.
