Angola, a country traditionally dependent on hydrocarbons, boasts vast fertile agricultural lands and varied climates. However, this potential remains largely underexploited. In light of this, Angolan authorities are seeking to diversify their economy and enhance their agricultural sector by drawing inspiration from the Ivory Coast model, renowned for its dynamic and efficient agriculture.
Official Visit and Discussions
An Angolan delegation led by José de Lima Massano, Minister of State for Economic Coordination, conducted a strategic visit to Côte d’Ivoire. The delegation visited several key agro-industrial units, such as:
- Huilerie de Irobo (SIFCA Group), the leading palm oil producer in Africa
- Compagnie des caoutchoucs du Pakidié, a pioneer in rubber cultivation
- CÉMOI cocoa processing plant
- Société ivoirienne de productions animales (SIPRA)
These visits aimed to closely observe Ivorian successes and lay the foundations for concrete partnerships, materialized by the signing of memoranda of understanding (MoUs).
The Ivorian Model: A Complete Value Chain
What particularly caught the attention of the Angolan delegation was Côte d’Ivoire’s ability to integrate the entire agricultural value chain: production, local processing, and marketing. This approach creates real added value, unlike a model based solely on the export of raw materials.
“Côte d’Ivoire produces, processes, and sells; this is true value creation” emphasized Ivorian Ambassador Jean-Marie Somet at the end of the visit.
Towards Strengthened Cooperation
This rapprochement is part of a renewed dynamic of South-South cooperation. Today, the two countries demonstrate a shared desire to intensify trade, develop joint agricultural projects, and capitalize on regional complementarities rather than systematically favoring external partnerships.
Ivorian companies, such as PALMCI, have already conducted exploratory missions to Angola to explore the possibilities of agricultural development on previously undeveloped land.
Challenges and perspectives
For Angola, drawing inspiration from the Ivorian model represents an opportunity to:
- Diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil
- Better exploit its agricultural potential
- Develop a local agri-food industry that creates jobs
- Strengthen intra-African cooperation and food sovereignty
José de Lima Massano hailed Côte d’Ivoire as an inspiring example for all of Africa, calling for intensifying regional cooperation and building on successful experiences on the continent.
