AD Ports Group breaks ground on Luanda terminal modernisation project

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AD Ports Group  in partnership with Unicargas and Multiparques, has laid the foundation stone for the Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal at the Port of Luanda, marking the start of a major modernisation and expansion project in Angola.

The project involves an initial investment of $250m over the first three years, with total investment expected to reach up to $380m over the 20-year concession period, extendable until 2055.

Construction will span 18 months and aims to deliver state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced technology, and sustainable equipment, positioning the Port of Luanda as one of the most competitive in Central and West Africa.

AD Ports Group holds majority stake in the terminal

AD Ports Group holds an 81 per cent stake in the multipurpose terminal and a 90 per cent stake in the joint venture Noatum Unicargas Logistics, which will oversee logistics operations and fleet modernisation, including refrigerated trucks and transport platforms.

“Breaking ground on the Noatum Ports – Luanda Terminal marks a transformative moment for AD Ports Group, for Angola, and for the wider region,” said Mohammed Al Tamimi, CEO – Noatum Ports. “By modernising this vital gateway, we are helping position Luanda as a leading maritime and logistics hub in Central and West Africa.”

The 192,000-square-metre terminal, with a 16-metre draft, will be the only facility at the Port of Luanda capable of handling Super Post-Panamax vessels of up to 14,000 TEUs.

The expansion includes three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes and eight hybrid RTG cranes, supported by IT systems to boost efficiency and sustainability.

Once completed in Q1 2027, the terminal will increase container capacity from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs, while Ro-Ro volumes are expected to exceed 40,000 vehicles.

The project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, alongside training programmes and community initiatives.

AD Ports Group said the investment will integrate Angola into global logistics corridors, supporting exports, reducing import costs, and enhancing competitiveness.

The development builds on more than $800m in AD Ports Group’s announced investments across Africa in recent years, spanning Egypt, the Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, and Angola.