Aliko Dangote plans major investment in Angola

Omokolade Ajayi -
Key Points
  • Aliko Dangote expands Dangote Industries' presence in Angola, focusing on the oil and cement sectors to strengthen his position in Africa’s industrial landscape.
  • Dangote launched a new subsidiary in Angola, managing investments in energy, cement, and infrastructure as part of his broader African expansion strategy.
  • Dangote's visit to Angola signals deeper commitments to the country's energy sector, with plans to collaborate with key stakeholders like Sonangol and ANPG.

Aliko Dangote, Africa's richest man, is expanding Dangote Industries' reach into Angola, focusing on the oil and cement sectors. This move is part of his strategy to strengthen his presence in Africa’s industrial landscape through acquisitions and operations in both onshore and offshore oil blocks.

Dangote arrived in Luanda this week and launched a new subsidiary to manage investments in key sectors including energy, cement, and infrastructure. This marks the latest phase in Dangote Industries' ongoing expansion as it looks to capitalize on Angola’s growing economy.

Angola’s economic recovery draws Dangote

During his visit, Dangote met with Angolan President João Lourenço, with whom he is expected to hold high-level talks about future collaborations. He will also engage with key stakeholders such as Sonangol, the national oil company, and the National Oil, Gas, and Biofuels Agency (ANPG), signaling a deepening commitment to Angola’s energy sector.

This move aligns with Dangote’s broader vision for Africa, positioning Angola as a strategic hub in his quest to reshape the continent’s industrial landscape. Central to the strategy is the creation of the new subsidiary, which will oversee operations such as the Lobito Refinery and investments in both oil blocks and cement plants.

Dangote has expressed optimism about Angola’s improving business climate, noting that the country’s economic recovery is gaining momentum. “Angola’s economic situation has improved dramatically,” he remarked following a meeting with Ambassador José Bamóquina Zau. “We’re hearing positive reports from those visiting, and this encourages our desire to invest.”

Aliko Dangote drives Africa's industrial growth

The expansion in Angola is a key component of Aliko Dangote’s broader vision to drive industrial development across Africa. Dangote Industries already controls the region’s largest cement producer and the continent’s largest oil refinery, with a diversified portfolio that spans sugar, salt, fertilizer, and packaged foods.

This strategic diversification further strengthens its position as a central player in shaping Africa’s economic future. In line with this vision, Dangote Cement recently secured approval for a new N300 billion ($180.5 million) bond issuance, bolstering its financial standing. Meanwhile, the Dangote Oil Refinery continues to attract prominent partners like BP, Vitol, and Trafigura, further solidifying its pivotal role in reshaping the African energy sector.

With a net worth of $27.7 billion, Dangote is ranked as the 66th richest person in the world. His strategic investments in Angola and beyond are poised to unlock Africa’s vast untapped potential, cementing Dangote’s status as a leading figure in the continent’s economic ascent.