Angolan President, João Lourenço, has granted approval for the commencement of negotiations with Siemens Mobility regarding a €1.3 billion contract for the development of the Luanda light rail Yellow Line. The proposed project entails the construction of a 39km double-track line featuring 24 stops, connecting the Port of Luanda with Kilamba city. Additionally, maintenance depots will be established at both ends of the line. The contractual scope encompasses the provision of 68 four-car Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs). To streamline the process, a simplified contracting procedure has been adopted, with the Ministry of Finance entrusted with securing the requisite resources.
Under a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2020, Siemens and Angola agreed to collaborate on the line’s construction through a public-private partnership (PPP). Siemens Mobility is set to manage the supply and implementation of signalling, telecommunications, traction power systems, and traffic control system.
This pivotal project, currently in the developmental stage, addresses the escalating transportation challenges attributed to the burgeoning population in Luanda, anticipated to reach 12 million by 2030.
Separately, President Lourenço has authorized the execution of a design and build contract for the 260km Luena – Saurimo section of the Benguela line. A consortium comprising Odebrecht International Engineering and Construction (OECI) and Bento Pedroso Construction (BPC) has been selected for the $US 1.17 billion contract. Aligned with the National Rail Network Expansion Plan and integrated into the National Master Plan for the Transport and Road Infrastructure Sector (PDNSTIR), this project holds strategic significance.
In a separate development, the Angolan government, in November, entered into a 30-year concession agreement with a consortium comprising Trafigura, Mota-Engil Engineering and Construction Africa, and Vecturis, Belgium. The agreement involves the operation of rail services and logistical support for the Lobito Corridor, spanning approximately 1290km from Luau on the eastern border with DR Congo to Lobito Port on the Atlantic Coast.
Angola is making all the right noise for economic development with major infrastructure investments that are set to transform the region.
