AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a global leader in trade, logistics, and industry, has officially commenced the long-term management and development of a major multipurpose terminal and logistics business in Luanda, Angola.
In partnership with Angolan firms Unicargas and Multiparques, the initiative aims to modernize port operations and strengthen regional trade networks.
The Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal, Angola’s largest port, handles 76% of the country’s container and general cargo, serving as a critical gateway to neighboring nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia.
Under a 20-year concession agreement signed in April 2024 with the Luanda Port Authority, AD Ports Group has secured an 81% stake in the terminal venture and a 90% stake in the logistics business.
The group has committed to investing approximately $250 million by 2026 to upgrade the terminal and enhance Noatum Unicargas Logistics, a joint venture offering integrated logistics and freight forwarding services.
Depending on market demand, total investment could rise to $380 million, with a potential 10-year extension of the concession.
As part of the modernization plan, Noatum Unicargas Logistics will invest in new trucks and advanced IT systems to integrate seamlessly with Noatum Logistics’ global network. The investment will also create thousands of jobs and support workforce training and upskilling.
His Excellency Ricardo Daniel Sandão Queirós Viegas d’Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “The Port of Luanda is Angola’s main maritime gateway and a key driver of regional trade.
This collaboration will transform the port into a world-class logistics hub, fostering economic growth and enhancing global trade access.” The Angolan government has pledged full support to ensure the project’s success.
Under AD Ports Group’s leadership, the Luanda terminal will be enhanced to accommodate general cargo, container shipments, and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations.
With a depth of 16 meters, the port will handle Super Post-Panamax vessels with capacities of up to 14,000 TEUs.
By the third quarter of 2026, new container handling equipment, including three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes and eight hybrid RTG cranes from Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (ZPMC), will significantly boost capacity.
Container throughput will rise from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs, while Ro-Ro volumes will exceed 40,000 vehicles. Additionally, hybrid RTG cranes will cut diesel consumption by 60%, reducing annual CO₂ emissions by 5,000 metric tonnes.
The transition of business assets has been smooth, ensuring uninterrupted terminal operations. AD Ports Group is also implementing a robust Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) program to enhance workplace safety and environmental sustainability.
Expanding rapidly across Africa, AD Ports Group has announced over $800 million in investments across Egypt, the Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Angola.
The Angola expansion follows a 2023 framework agreement to explore cooperation in transport and maritime infrastructure.
Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized, “Our investment in Angola aligns with our vision to develop world-class trade and logistics solutions.
By upgrading Luanda’s terminal and integrating it into our global network, we will drive economic growth, enhance trade connectivity, and create long-term prosperity for Angola.”
