Angola opens science and technology park as research investment expands

Angola has opened the Luanda Science and Technology Park, creating a new base for research, startups and technology businesses. The project also reflects the country’s continued investment in science education. The park was developed with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) through a $100 million Science and Technology Development Project. President João Lourenço said the park will bring universities, researchers, companies and young entrepreneurs together. He added that Angola needs stronger research and technology capabilities to solve local problems and reduce its dependence on traditional industries.

Investment extends beyond the new facility

The technology park is one part of a wider programme to strengthen science education. So far, the funding has equipped 54 laboratories in 18 secondary schools. In addition, it has trained more than 1,500 teachers, researchers and technicians. The programme has also funded 73 research projects. Notably, almost a third of those projects were led by women. Beyond that, it has awarded 161 scholarships for students to study at international universities. Meanwhile, another 1,204 girls from disadvantaged backgrounds have received support to continue studying science subjects.

More technology centres planned

African Development Bank Country Manager Pietro Toigo said the bank plans to expand the programme beyond Luanda. As a result, similar technology centres are being considered for other provinces. He said the new facility will help researchers and startups work more closely with businesses. In turn, that could make it easier to turn research into products and businesses. The investment also supports Angola’s National Development Plan for 2023 to 2027. Under the plan, research, science and technology are expected to play a bigger role as the country looks to broaden its economy. For his part, Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Albano Lopes Ferreira said the park gives researchers access to facilities where they can develop new products, work with industry and build businesses around their research.