Abu Dhabi:DP World has secured a 10-year extension for its concession to operate the multipurpose terminal at the Port of Luanda in Angola, now set to run until 2051.
According to Emirates News Agency, since taking over operations in 2021, DP World has already invested over $260 million to enhance and modernize the terminal. The volume of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) handled has nearly doubled in the last five years, increasing from 177,000 TEUs to over 350,000 TEUs, aided by an additional 28,000 square meters of yard space. The company also expanded its equipment this year, acquiring two more Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs), bringing the total to eight, and increased the number of reefer plugs from 630 to 700.
During the inauguration of its new terminal building, DP World announced plans for a further investment of $90 million over the next two years. This investment will focus on expanding the terminal’s infrastructure, equipment, and operational capabilities. The expansion will extend the quay by 222 meters, enlarge the operating area by 10 hectares, and boost the terminal's design capacity to 1.2 million TEUs.
The introduction of three Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 12 semi-automated rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes will allow the terminal to accommodate two Post-Panamax vessels at the same time, enhancing Luanda's position as a crucial container gateway for Central Africa and as a significant trade hub in sub-Saharan Africa. The expansion is expected to bolster local employment and industrialization, improve export competitiveness, and attract foreign investments to promote sustainable regional trade.
Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director for Africa at DP World, emphasized the significance of this expansion for Angola and the wider region. He stated that handling larger vessels would support new shipping services and strengthen the terminal's potential as a gateway for West and Central Africa, enhancing trade flow efficiency and sustainability.
Paco Pinzon, CEO of DP World Luanda, expressed that the extended concession demonstrates the company's long-term commitment to Angola and its future as a regional trade gateway. He highlighted that DP World's continued investments aim to create a more efficient and competitive experience for customers and support Angola's goals to strengthen trade connectivity and diversify its economy.