Angola Roundup: Oman ties, Shell eyes re-entry, choosing clean energy sources
Angolan President’s visit to Oman to boost ties
Angolan President Joao Lourenco will visit Oman on December 19, 2024, to enhance bilateral relations across various sectors. Key discussions will also cover cultural and educational ties, with potential agreements for scholarship exchanges and improved maritime connectivity to facilitate trade and tourism, Muscat Daily reports. Trade between Oman and Angola saw a significant increase, with exchanges reaching approximately RO3.2 million ($669,584) at the end of 2023, a 145.1% rise from the previous year.
Frontier licensing round in early 2025
Angola plans to launch a frontier licensing round in early 2025, as reported by Energy Explored. The initiative aims to attract investment in the oil and gas sector while also addressing the industry's transition towards cleaner energy sources like the lightly explored Kwanza and Benguela basins.
Isabel dos Santos hits out over UK's 'dirty money' sanctions
Isabel dos Santos, once Africa's richest woman, has criticised the UK for imposing sanctions on her due to allegations of corruption, claiming she has not been found guilty of any crime. The UK government labelled her a "notorious kleptocrat" and enforced an asset freeze and travel ban based on accusations that she embezzled at least £350 million from Angola. According to the BBC, Dos Santos asserts that the actions against her are politically motivated and lack due process, emphasising that she has been targeted as part of an anti-corruption drive by Angola's current leadership, which she accuses of betraying her father's legacy.
Angola cables propel West Africa’s digital transformation
Angola Cables is driving digital transformation in West Africa through its subsidiary, TelCables Nigeria, by establishing a new point of presence (PoP) at the Lagos Rack Centre. This expansion is designed to enhance digital connectivity and provide faster internet access for various sectors in the region. With an extensive submarine cable network and partnerships extending globally, TelCables aims to improve IT solutions since entering the market in November 2022, reports Tech In Africa.
Shell eyes Angola re-entry after 20-year absence
Shell is considering re-entering the Angolan oil market after a 20-year absence. This potential move highlights the company's ongoing interest in significant oil and gas projects, as well as its efforts to transition towards cleaner energy sources amid the evolving dynamics of the global energy industry, Upstream reports.
