Luanda: Sonamet, a prominent manufacturer of metal structures for the oil industry headquartered in Lobito, Angola's Benguela Province, is setting sights on the Namibian market for expansion. The company's Commercial Director, Sandro Ferreira, announced their strategic interest during a press interaction accompanying Benguela Governor Manuel Nunes Jºnior's visit to the company premises.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Namibia's recent oil discovery has created a demand for industry-specific structures, which Sonamet aims to supply. Sandro Ferreira highlighted that the company has been laying groundwork by hosting Namibian trainees for over two years, who are now contributing to Namibia's burgeoning oil industry. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative environment where Namibian professionals could work alongside Sonamet's seasoned experts in fields such as welding and engineering.
Sonamet is also seeking to solidify its position by establishing connections with the Lobito Refinery project, leveraging its geographic proximity to play a key role not only in the construction phase but also in ongoing maintenance efforts. Ferreira noted the importance of this involvement for the company's sustainability, as their expertise extends beyond mere development to comprehensive upkeep of metal structures.
While Sonamet has engaged in preliminary discussions with Sonaref management, the talks remain at a commercial and technical level, with no formal proposals submitted yet. The company is also exploring new avenues within the oil industry, such as the dismantling of metal structures, which is supported by government-backed steel recycling initiatives.
Currently, Sonamet is undertaking a small-scale project for TotalEnergies in Block 20/21 due to a lack of other contractual engagements. The cyclical nature of the industry means that employment levels fluctuate, with the company capable of employing up to 2,500 workers during peak production, though it presently employs only 140.
Ferreira emphasized that Sonamet's involvement is contingent upon the definition of infrastructure required for oil production, reflecting the company's strategic adaptability since its establishment in 1998. The firm operates on an 80-hectare site leased from the Port of Lobito, with 12,000 square meters dedicated to infrastructure.
