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The newly inaugurated Cabinda Refinery has been awarded Downstream Operator of the Year at the Gala Dinner of the Angola Oil & Gas Conference 2025, held in Luanda. The award recognizes the strategic role of the new facility in transforming Angola’s downstream sector and strengthening the nation’s energy sovereignty.
The distinction was received by Marcelo Hofke, CEO of Gemcorp Angola, on behalf of the refinery. “This recognition, so close to the refinery’s inauguration, demonstrates the relevance and impact of the project for Angola. The Cabinda Refinery was created to serve the country and the Angolan people, with international standards of excellence, and this award shows that the African oil sector recognizes its strategic importance,” he stated.
Inaugurated on September 1 by the President of the Republic, João Lourenço, the refinery is the first to be built from the ground up since independence and marks a turning point in national energy policy. In its first phase, it produces 30,000 barrels per day, with output set to reach 60,000 barrels upon full completion.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, highlighted that the facility is “proof that Angola can produce, transform, and develop its resources while preserving sovereignty.” He further emphasized that, despite the shareholding structure — 90% held by Gemcorp and 10% by Sonangol — control over oil and derivatives remains in the hands of the State.
Following the refinery’s inauguration, information circulated on social media attempting to link businessman Valdomiro Minoru Dondo to Gemcorp and, consequently, to the Cabinda Refinery. Such claims are unfounded, according to the businessman’s press office.
“It is important to state unequivocally that such an association does not correspond to the truth. Mr. Valdomiro Minoru Dondo is not the owner of Gemcorp, much less of the Cabinda Refinery. The allegations seeking to create a non-existent link are absolutely baseless.”
According to his representatives, the misinformation being spread is malicious and clearly aimed at distorting the truth, in an attempt not only to discredit the businessman but also to downplay the efforts and achievements of the Government of the Republic of Angola, which has been strongly committed to diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investment, and building key infrastructure such as the Cabinda Refinery.
The project, which faced challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and logistical constraints, is regarded by the government as a cornerstone for reducing dependence on imports, boosting the local economy, and positioning Angola as an industrial reference on the African continent.
With this award now received in Luanda, the Cabinda Refinery consolidates its status as one of the most significant energy infrastructures in the country, combining economic, industrial, and strategic impact for Angola’s future.
