The President of Angola, João Lourenço, invited Namibia to join the shareholder structure of the Lobito refinery, projected to process 200 000 bpd of oil, strengthening bilateral cooperation in the oil sector. The invitation was extended on 19 October, in Luanda, to the Namibian President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, during her state visit to Angola and the 1st Session of the Angola-Namibia Binational Commission.
On that occasion, João Lourenço highlighted the opportunities for partnership in the oil sector, emphasising the importance of increasing the production and marketing of refined products, generating added value, and responding to the growing energy demand in the region. The Head of State also reaffirmed Angola's willingness to share its experience in oil exploration, production, and marketing, at a time when Namibia is preparing to move forward with the commercial exploitation of its oil resources.
Strengthening energy cooperation was identified as one of the main focuses of relations between the two countries, with particular emphasis on structuring projects capable of boosting regional economic development.
Located in the province of Benguela, the Lobito refinery is scheduled for completion in 2029 and is expected to produce gasoline, diesel, LPG, aviation fuel, and other derivatives, contributing to the reduction of fuel imports and strengthening national refining capacity.
