The capital city of Luanda, Angola’s largest urban center, is struggling with a severe water deficit that affects nearly every aspect of daily life. With a population of over 10 million, Luanda relies on three outdated water supply systems that fall drastically short of meeting the needs of its residents. A staggering daily shortfall of around 1.2 million cubic meters (cbm) of drinking water persists, forcing the city to depend on trucked-in water deliveries. This inefficient and unsustainable solution highlights the urgency for a lasting overhaul of the city’s water infrastructure. The Quilonga Grande water supply project is designed to solve this crisis by delivering a modern, reliable, and sustainable water distribution network across the capital. It is expected to significantly reduce reliance on tankers and make clean water more accessible to Luanda's rapidly growing population.
Who’s Involved?
The Quilonga Grande project is the result of a key collaboration between several international and local companies. Salzgitter Group, a renowned global steel producer, plays a central role in the venture. Its subsidiaries, Mannesmann Grossrohr GmbH and Salzgitter Mannesmann International GmbH, are responsible for manufacturing and delivering the large-diameter steel pipes required for the project. These pipes, which will range in diameter from 508 mm to 1,626 mm, are essential for the construction of the new water supply system. CNT Bau, a Munich-based subsidiary of Portugal’s Casais Group, is tasked with the on-the-ground construction efforts. The Casais Group, one of Portugal’s largest construction firms, brings its extensive experience in large-scale infrastructure projects to the table. Together, these organizations are set to bring transformative changes to the water distribution system in Luanda.
Project Scope & Manufacturing
The manufacturing of the pipes required for the Quilonga Grande project is no small feat. Mannesmann Grossrohr GmbH will produce the spiral-welded pipes, which are necessary for the installation of the water system that will span approximately 105 kilometers. These pipes will be coated with a thick-layer epoxy coating on the inside to protect the water from contamination and a three-layer polyethylene coating on the outside to ensure durability and resistance to environmental factors. The high standards in manufacturing and coating are critical as the pipes will carry drinking water for millions of people in one of the most rapidly urbanizing regions in Africa. The pipes will be produced in Salzgitter and Hamm, Germany, before being transported to Angola, where they will be integrated into the expanding infrastructure.
Significance to Luanda’s Water Crisis
For Luanda, the Quilonga Grande project is a game-changer. The installation of the large-diameter pipes marks the beginning of a much-needed transformation of the city’s water supply infrastructure. With the city currently facing such dire water shortages, the new system will vastly improve water accessibility and reliability for residents. The 1.2 million cbm daily water deficit, which has led to the use of tank trucks, will be significantly reduced, helping to alleviate both the economic and social burdens of water scarcity. Salzgitter’s CEO, Gunnar Groebler, highlighted that this project is a major milestone not only for Angola but also for the Salzgitter Group’s legacy in addressing critical global infrastructure needs. Groebler noted that steel pipes will play a vital role in this project, as they are essential for the safe and sustainable distribution of clean water to the people of Luanda.
Logistical Challenges & Coordination
Managing the logistics of transporting large-diameter pipes from Germany to Angola poses significant challenges, particularly given the size and weight of the pipes involved. Salzgitter Mannesmann International GmbH will oversee the entire logistics process, coordinating the transport of the pipes to Luanda's harbor. This includes ensuring that the pipes are securely packaged and transported in compliance with international shipping regulations. The project also involves the procurement of necessary accessories such as pipe bends, elbows, and other fittings required for the installation of the system. Salzgitter will also work closely with local authorities and partners to ensure the safe and timely delivery of materials. This complex logistical operation is critical to the overall success of the project, and Salzgitter’s vast experience in managing large-scale infrastructure deliveries is crucial to ensuring a smooth execution.
Environmental & Economic Impact
The environmental benefits of the Quilonga Grande project go beyond improving water supply. By shifting from the use of tank trucks to a fixed pipeline system, the project will reduce the carbon footprint associated with water transportation. Trucks used to deliver water contribute to CO2 emissions, and their removal will result in cleaner air and less road congestion in Luanda. Economically, the project will have a profound impact on Angola’s development, providing jobs in both the manufacturing and construction sectors. The local workforce will benefit from training and upskilling opportunities, particularly in the areas of pipe installation and water system maintenance. The project is also expected to stimulate economic growth by providing a stable and reliable water supply, which is a key driver for industries and businesses in the region.
A Milestone for Salzgitter
For Salzgitter Group, this partnership with CNT Bau and the Casais Group represents a significant milestone in its global efforts to address critical infrastructure challenges. The company’s involvement in the Quilonga Grande project is a clear indication of its commitment to supporting large-scale sustainable initiatives. Gunnar Groebler emphasized that Salzgitter’s long-standing expertise in steel manufacturing and infrastructure development makes it ideally positioned to contribute to projects of this magnitude. The successful completion of the project will solidify Salzgitter’s reputation as a global leader in providing essential materials for the construction of vital infrastructure, particularly in emerging markets.
4. Key Takeaways:
• The Quilonga Grande water supply project in Luanda is a collaborative effort between Salzgitter Group, CNT Bau, and the Casais Group.
• Salzgitter’s Mannesmann Grossrohr GmbH is manufacturing large-diameter steel pipes, ranging from 508 mm to 1,626 mm in diameter, essential for the water system.
• The project will significantly alleviate Luanda’s water deficit, which currently amounts to 1.2 million cubic meters per day.
• Pipes will be coated with an epoxy interior and a polyethylene exterior to ensure safety and durability.
• The Quilonga Grande project will also reduce CO2 emissions by replacing trucked water deliveries with a fixed pipeline system.
• The project is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic development in Angola, with Salzgitter handling logistics and delivery.
