Enio Costa, Chairman of Agência Nacional de Transportes Terrestres – «Taking on the chairmanship of ANTT was a historic commitment […]»

At a time in which Angola is stepping up the modernisation of its land transport system, the work of the National Land Transport Agency reflects a structural transformation characterised by digitalisation, service integration and a drive towards interoperability. In this interview, Enio Costa discusses the key milestones achieved, the role of public-private partnerships and the strategic vision that will establish the country as a leading logistics hub within the SADC.

During your time at the helm of ANTT, what do you consider to have been the key milestones in the transformation of Angola’s land transport sector, and to what extent are these achievements contributing to a more modern, integrated transport system that meets international standards?
Taking on the chairmanship of ANTT was a historic commitment, in a period marked by the reform of the sector and the merger of the National Road Transport Institute (INTR) and the National Railway Institute of Angola (INCFA), creating a unified and modern regulatory agency. We have identified structural challenges such as protracted licensing processes, a flawed fare payment system and a lack of regulation in key areas. Digitalisation was made a priority, thereby eliminating red tape, increasing transparency and streamlining the licensing process. We also helped to set up the National Integrated Ticketing Company (ENBI) and the National Integrated Ticketing System (SNBI), which centralise payments and improve passenger experience. The pilot scheme in Luanda and Lubango has stimulated innovation and enabled access to real-time data, enabling more proactive decision-making. Alongside this, we have brought our regulations into line with SADC standards, thereby boosting regional competitiveness and facilitating cross-border trade. These achievements represent the transition to an integrated system aligned with the best global practices.

«Angola is open to sound investment [...]»

Taking into account the National Master Plan for the Transport and Road Infrastructure Sector (PDNSTIR), what are ANTT’s main strategic priorities for the coming years, in particular with regard to intermodality, technological innovation and sustainability?
The National Master Plan for the Transport and Road Infrastructure Sector (PDNSTIR) sets out three main areas of focus. In terms of intermodality, it prioritises the creation of integrated logistics platforms, such as the rail link between Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport and Luanda, thereby reducing costs and travel time. In terms of innovation, highlights include the development of the Integrated Land Transport Management System (SIGTT), featuring real-time data and interoperability, and improved technological monitoring. In sustainability, multi-sectoral work is underway to structure urban mobility, including a Sustainable Public Transport Stabilisation Mechanism, with a view to improving reliability, the fleet, productivity, road safety and decentralisation. Another highlight is the Benguela Railway concession, which generated USD 100 million in 2022, promoting rail transport as a low-carbon alternative. The aim is to establish Angola as a logistics hub for the SADC.

ANTT has been stepping up international cooperation and promoting greater private-sector involvement. What specific opportunities currently exist for investors and operators in the Angolan market, and how would you assess the role of these partnerships in Angola’s development as a regional logistics hub?
Angola is open to sound investment, with clear opportunities: rail and logistics concessions, such as the Lobito and Moçâmedes Corridors; access for operators to interprovincial and international transport, including the Open Access model; technological development in ticketing, GPS, inspection and training; and the ancillary industry for vehicle and locomotive maintenance. Public-private partnerships are essential if we are to unlock the country’s strategic potential as a SADC logistics hub, promoting regional trade and sustainable investment.

In a country where mobility poses significant challenges, what measures have been implemented to improve user experiences, ensure greater affordability and efficiency in services, and how is digitalisation transforming the relationship between citizens and the transport system?
The Integrated Land Transport System (SIGTT) has played a central role in this transformation and will be integrated into the Angolan Road Information System (SITRAGO), thus ensuring regional interoperability and bringing it into line with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol. The aim is to reduce bureaucracy, improve safety and provide faster processes and reliable data. The SNBI, operated by the ENBI, will enable greater intermodal flow and better targeting of social support. Digitalisation has got rid of intermediaries, increased transparency and improved affordability, enabling citizens to save time and benefit from more efficient services. As such, the SIGTT and the SNBI are establishing themselves as tools for social inclusion, making the transport system more accessible to citizens and ensuring mobility as an effective right.

«Public-private partnerships are essential if we are to unlock the country’s strategic potential as a SADC logistics hub […]»

Text: Editorial Team 
Photos: Rights reserved