This energy partnership between Angola and the United States illustrates a dynamic of strategic cooperation aimed at developing Angolan natural resources, promoting the energy transition and supporting regional economic development.
Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation in Washington
On June 11, 2025, a high-level meeting took place in Washington between Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, and U.S. Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright. The meeting, attended by Angola’s Ambassador to the United States, Agostinho Van-Dùnem, reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation in the oil, gas, critical minerals, and renewable energy sectors.
A Partnership Focused on Hydrocarbons and Renewable Energy
Angola, endowed with over nine billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 11 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, is unveiling investment opportunities estimated at 60 billion USD through its National Agency for Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG). The country is preparing a new licensing round for strategic oil blocks, with strong involvement from American companies such as ExxonMobil and Chevron, which continue their exploration and production activities.
At the same time, Angola is committed to diversifying its energy mix by attracting U.S. investments in solar and green hydrogen projects. The Cabinda refinery project, valued at 920 million USD, is progressing thanks to the participation of American companies specialized in engineering and procurement.
U.S. Support for Energy Infrastructure and Regional Development
The United States is also supporting the development of key infrastructure, notably the Lobito corridor, which connects the Angolan port to Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This corridor, backed by Washington, is expected to accelerate energy transport and boost regional industrialization.
Furthermore, the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) has approved a direct loan of 1.6 billion USD for the construction of 65 solar photovoltaic mini-grids with energy storage, intended to power drinking water systems in several southern provinces of Angola. This project aligns with the U.S. strategy to promote renewable energy and sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Economic and Diplomatic Perspectives
This energy cooperation fits into a broader context of strengthening economic and diplomatic relations between Angola and the United States. President Joe Biden’s visit to Angola in December 2024 sent a strong signal encouraging American investments, particularly in energy transition and infrastructure.
