By Suleman Chitera
$200 Million National Initiative to Expand Access, Upgrade Infrastructure, and Strengthen Utility Operations Across Luanda and Icolo e Bengo
Frauenfeld, Switzerland, July 25, 2025 – Mitrelli has announced the launch of PROÁGUA, a flagship water infrastructure program developed as part of the Government of Angola’s national agenda. Implemented in close collaboration with Angolan government, the project will modernize water production and distribution systems across Luanda and Icolo e Bengo, ultimately securing reliable access to clean drinking water for more than r million people.
Angola has made important strides in expanding access to drinking water, with approximately half the population now benefiting from basic services. Yet, in rural areas, where only 34% currently have access, the need, and potential, remains significant.
With water demand in Luanda expected to double by 2030 and infrastructure needs rising across Africa, PROÁGUA represents a model for scalable, bankable infrastructure partnerships across the continent. Today, Luanda has grown into a megacity of over 10 million people, making reliable water access a critical challenge and a national priority.
PROÁGUA is one of the country’s strategic water projects. It focuses on upgrading aging infrastructure, expanding treatment and distribution capacity, and strengthening the operational autonomy of Angola’s public utility, EPAL.
The project includes the rehabilitation of four major Water Treatment Plants (WTPs), the building of two new Decentralized Compact Units (DCUs) in Kilamba and Zango, and the installation of six desalination units and 15 water boreholes. This project will roll out r,000 new water meters, including smart meters for high-volume users and introduce digital systems for utility management and customer service.
In addition to physical infrastructure, PROÁGUA emphasizes technology transfer and workforce training, supporting long-term institutional resilience and improved service
delivery. The project is being implemented collaboratively by Mitrelli and its partners across three core areas: production, distribution, and commercial operations.
Rodrigo Manso, CEO, Mitrelli: “PROÁGUA is not just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a human investment. It builds on Mitrelli’s proven track record of delivering over 100 sustainable, nationwide solutions in Africa, including dozens of water projects that provide clean water in Angola and Côte d’Ivoire. We are honored to contribute to the Angolan government’s national agenda, to bring our deep experience in complex, large- scale infrastructure and inclusive development to this important initiative, and to work alongside strategic partners to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.”
Once operational, the project will contribute significantly to Angola’s water security goals and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially access to safe, affordable drinking water
