Angola is quickly becoming an attractive choice for investors looking to tap into Africa’s opportunities.

The country’s wealth of natural resources, strategic location, and clear push to diversify its economy make it stand out in the region.

With a nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) valued at about $113.29 billion, Angola ranks 66th in the world and is the 8th largest economy in Africa.

When measured by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), which adjusts for cost of living and inflation, Angola’s GDP rises to approximately $541 billion, placing it 59th globally.

Central to Angola’s economic growth and diversification is the Angola Debt and Stock Exchange, known as BODIVA. Founded in 2014 and based in Luanda, BODIVA provides a platform for trading public and corporate debt, as well as stocks.

The exchange has seen gradual growth in listings, highlighted by Banco Angolano de Investimentos (BAI) becoming the first company to list shares on BODIVA in 2022, offering 10% of its shares through an initial public offering (IPO).

In December 2024, BODIVA itself offered 30% of its shares to the public to broaden ownership and boost market activity.

The exchange plans to expand its listed companies from four to ten by 2027, including major state-owned firms like Sonangol, Endiama, Unitel, and Banco de Fomento Angola.

BODIVA is working to improve its operations through technological upgrades, partnerships with other exchanges such as the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange, and regulatory reforms with the government to streamline listing processes and protect investors.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including low trading volumes and economic uncertainty tied to fluctuating oil prices.

Angola’s official currency is the Angolan Kwanza (AOA), managed by the Banco Nacional de Angola (BNA).

The central bank has kept its benchmark interest rate steady at 19.5% since May 2024, reflecting caution amid global economic uncertainties even as domestic inflation eases.

Angola’s economy has traditionally depended heavily on oil, which accounts for over 90% of its exports and 60% of government revenues. However, the country is actively working to reduce this reliance.

In 2024, Angola’s economy grew by 4.4%, the fastest rate since 2014, led by agriculture, mining, and services. Growth is expected to continue at 3.61% in 2025, with non-oil sectors playing a larger role.

Agriculture stands out as a key growth area due to Angola’s abundant arable land and favorable climate. Opportunities exist in crops like grains, pulses, tropical fruits, coffee, fisheries, and poultry—areas that can improve food security and reduce imports.

Renewable energy projects are also gaining momentum to address power shortages and support sustainability goals.

Projects such as the 50MW Caraculo Solar Power Station, the 26.91MW Luena Solar Power Station under construction, and the planned 35MW Quilemba Solar Power Station are set to diversify the energy mix and expand electricity access.

Infrastructure development is another priority. The Lobito Atlantic Railway, a partnership involving Trafigura and Mota-Engil, is revitalizing the Benguela railway corridor to improve trade links between Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia, which is vital for regional economic integration.

In mining, Angola’s wealth goes beyond oil, with significant deposits of diamonds, gold, and rare earth minerals. The government is encouraging investment in this sector to broaden export revenue and stimulate growth.

To foster a better investment environment, Angola has introduced reforms that simplify legal processes and strengthen investor protections.

The Economic Diversification Support Program (EDSP), backed by the African Development Bank, focuses on promoting private sector growth and job creation.

Angola also launched the “Invest in Angola” digital platform through AIPEX, offering investors easy access to information on opportunities and procedures.

International partnerships are strengthening Angola’s development plans. The U.S.-Angola Commercial and Investment Partnership aims to boost trade and private investment, while the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment supports projects like the Lobito Corridor to improve regional connectivity.

In summary, Angola’s natural resources, strategic reforms, and diversification efforts are creating promising investment opportunities across agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, and mining.

Investors looking for a dynamic African market will find Angola an emerging frontier with strong growth potential.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not offer investment advice or an invitation to buy or sell securities.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, investors should conduct their own research and consult financial experts before making decisions.