Angola’s Minister of Transport Addresses 15th Advisory Council in Benguela
On the 6th and 7th of June 2024, the Angolan Ministry of Transport hosted its 15th Consultative Council in the municipality of Lobito, Benguela Province. The event, themed “Consolidate Sector Reforms and Enhance Angola, Towards a Regional Transport and Logistics Hub,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss the ongoing transformation of Angola’s transport sector.
In his opening address, His Excellency Ricardo Viegas d’Abreu, Minister of Transport, emphasised the importance of the reforms initiated over the past five years. These reforms aim to position Angola as a regional hub for transport and logistics, significantly contributing to the nation’s economic diversification.
Minister d’Abreu highlighted the progress made, noting Angola’s enhanced presence in international forums on civil aviation, maritime-port activities, and railways. He stressed that the sector’s achievements have drawn increased attention from international investors and partners, particularly from the United States and the European Union.
A significant highlight of the speech was the Lobito Corridor, which has become one of the world’s most crucial rail corridors since its accelerated operation began in July last year. The Minister underlined the corridor’s strategic importance in the global energy transition, facilitating the transport of critical minerals essential for world industries.
Minister d’Abreu called for continued dedication and systematic efforts to build on these successes, stressing the need for resilience, teamwork, and a focus on continuous improvement across all transport sub-sectors. He urged stakeholders to maintain their commitment to the sector’s growth, professional development, and the implementation of good international practices.
The Minister also highlighted the Programme for the Acceleration of the Performance of the Regulatory Bodies of the Transport Sector (PROCREST), noting the critical role in ensuring the sector’s stability and efficiency. He emphasised that the success of regulatory bodies is fundamental to the entire sector’s functionality.
In conclusion, Minister d’Abreu reaffirmed the collective goal of transforming Angola into a respected and strong country, both regionally and internationally, with a thriving transport sector contributing significantly to national and personal prosperity. He expressed confidence in the continued support and collaboration of all stakeholders to achieve these ambitious objectives.
Read the Minister’s full speech here: https://conselhoconsultivomintrans.ao/docs/CC_15/DISCURSO_DE_ABERTURA.pdf