In a significant boost to Angola’s agricultural development, a Chinese entrepreneur has pledged a $20 million investment towards a large-scale rice cultivation project in Cuito Cuanavale.
Scheduled to commence in the second half of 2025, the initiative reflects the growing trend of strategic agricultural partnerships between China and Africa, aiming to enhance food security, promote rural development, and stimulate local economies.
The project is set to cover one thousand hectares, transforming a substantial expanse of land into a productive agricultural zone dedicated to rice cultivation. Beyond its agricultural ambitions, the initiative holds notable socio-economic significance. It is anticipated to generate more than 600 direct employment opportunities, creating much-needed jobs for the local population and contributing to skills development in the region.
The choice of Cuito Cuanavale, a region historically marked by resilience and reconstruction, underscores the strategic nature of the investment. It represents a commitment not only to commercial agriculture but also to regional revitalisation and empowerment. By introducing advanced agricultural techniques, mechanisation, and irrigation systems, the project aims to establish a model for modern rice farming in Angola, potentially inspiring similar ventures in other provinces.
This development aligns with Angola’s broader strategy to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, with agriculture positioned as a key driver of sustainable growth. The government has been actively promoting foreign direct investment in the sector, offering incentives and facilitating partnerships to bolster domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports.
Moreover, the project resonates with continental efforts under the African Union’s Agenda 2063 to achieve food self-sufficiency and build resilient agricultural value chains. The introduction of large-scale rice production is expected to not only meet local consumption needs but also contribute to regional food markets.
As preparations move forward, stakeholders are optimistic that the project will serve as a catalyst for further investment, innovation, and community development in Cuito Cuanavale, setting a new benchmark for agribusiness success in Angola.
Source: Further Africa
