LOBITO
- Latitude: -12.333 •
- Longitude: 13.574 •
- West Africa •
- Port in Angola
Address: Lobito Benguela Angola
Phone number: +244 272 221 346
Web-site: http://www.portlobito.com
Lobito Port, Angola: An Overview
Introduction
Lobito Port, located in the town of Lobito, is one of Angola's primary maritime gateways. Situated on the Atlantic coast, the port serves as a critical hub for imports and exports, not only for Angola but also for neighboring landlocked countries.
Geographic Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 12°22' S latitude and 13°34' E longitude
- Proximity: Roughly 480 km south of Angola's capital, Luanda
Infrastructure and Facilities
- Port Type: Deep-water port
- Berths and Quays: Lobito Port comprises several berths and quays to handle various types of cargo, including container, bulk, and general cargo.
- Container Terminal: Equipped with modern facilities to accommodate container vessels.
- Bulk Terminal: Handles dry and liquid bulk cargo such as petroleum products and minerals.
- Storage Facilities: Includes warehouses, open yards, and specialized storage for hazardous materials.
- Draught: The port can accommodate large vessels thanks to its substantial depth.
Capacity
- Annual Cargo Throughput: The port can handle millions of tons of cargo annually, supporting a wide range of commodities.
- Terminal Capacities:
- Container Terminal: Designed to handle several hundred thousand TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) per year.
- Bulk Cargo: Significant capacity for both dry and liquid bulk handling.
Connectivity
- Railway: The Benguela railway connects Lobito Port to the interior regions of Angola and extends to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, enhancing its role as a key logistics hub for Southern Africa.
- Road Network: Well-connected to Angola's national road system, facilitating the movement of goods to and from the port.
Services and Operations
- Cargo Handling: Modern equipment and technology are employed for efficient loading, unloading, and handling of cargo.
- Bunkering: Fuel supplies are available for vessels calling at the port.
- Maintenance and Repair: On-site facilities for vessel repairs and maintenance, including dry docks.
- Customs and Clearance: On-site customs office ensures efficient processing of cargo documentation and clearance.
Strategic Importance
- Economic Role: Crucial for Angola's economy, supporting the oil, mining, and agricultural sectors.
- Regional Hub: Serves as a strategic entry point for Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations, particularly landlocked countries needing access to the sea.
Development and Expansion
The Angolan government, along with private investors, has ongoing projects to expand and modernize the port's facilities. This includes increasing capacity, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing overall efficiency to meet growing demand.
Safety and Security
- Security Measures: Comprehensive security protocols in place, including surveillance systems and port security personnel.
- Safety Standards: Compliance with international maritime safety standards to ensure safe operations for vessels and cargo.
Environmental Considerations
- Environmental Management: Port operations are conducted in accordance with environmental regulations to minimize impact on the surrounding environment.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts are being made to implement sustainable practices, including waste management and pollution control.
Conclusion
Lobito Port is a vital maritime asset for Angola and the broader Southern African region. With its strategic location, extensive infrastructure, and ongoing development projects, the port is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in regional trade and logistics.
Contact Information
- For detailed inquiries and operational specifics, it is advisable to contact the port authority directly or visit their official website.