The Special Leadership Commendation Award was presented at the International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership 2023 in recognition of Angolan entrepreneur Edson Dos Santos, his significant impact in shaping the energy sector, and his philanthropic works in Angola.
Edson Dos Santos is one of the dozens of visionary African leaders who are helping to keep the wheels of energy in Angola turning. His passion for building sustainable energy solutions, eradicating energy poverty, advancing Angola’s energy market, and decarbonizing across Angola and beyond is nothing short of exemplary. And has earned him this prestigious recognition.
Formerly Somoil, Etu Energias, under CEO Edson Rodrigues Dos Santos, has spearheaded significant advancements in Angola’s upstream sector. They’ve embraced policy shifts, actively participating in tenders by the ANPG. Despite COVID challenges, Somoil launched initiatives to redevelop assets, synchronizing with rising oil prices.
Their drilling campaign at the FST block effectively mitigated production declines. Block 2/05’s redevelopment resulted in a production surge from 2,500 to 10,000 bopd. Somoil’s strategic acquisition of shares in deepwater blocks 14 and 14K aligns with their long-term goal to enhance reserves. They aim to learn from established operators like Chevron and TotalEnergies for deepwater expertise.
The major highlight of the International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership in New York 2023 was the presentation of the 9th Caribbean and African Leadership Awards to deserving dignitaries. Select delegates were invited to the New York Hilton Midtown, United States, for the event.
Tinashe Mutarisi was among the distinguished business leaders in attendance. Including other renowned African and Caribbean diplomats and policymakers. The likes of H.E. President Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia; H.E. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe; H.E. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Republic of Guyana; H.E. Sen. Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, Nigeria; H.E. Prof. Babagana Zulun, Governor of Borno State; and H.E. Abraao Vicente, Minister for Sea, Culture, and Creative Industries, Cabo Verde
Other guests at the event include Olukayode A. Pitan, CEO, Bank of Industry, Nigeria; Benedito Paulo Manuel, Director General, Sociedade Mineira De Catoca Lda, Angola; Dr.Anselmo Monteiro, President of the Board of Directors, National Institute of Social Security, Angola; Edson R. Dos Santos, CEO, Etu Energias Angola; Mary Mumba, CEO, Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme Limited; and Christine Mwakatobe, Managing Director, Kilimanjaro Airports Development Company, Tanzania.
The focus of the event was to explore the challenges and progress of the African people, strengthen trans-regional cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean nations, and build strategic partnerships and bilateral cooperation. As well as increase engagements in trade and investments, innovation and technology transfer, culture and tourism, and other sectors.
The International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership featured high-level panel discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions. These sessions covered crucial topics such as business partnerships, corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustainable development, infrastructure, technology, and governance.
The esteemed speakers and attendees shared their valuable insights, experiences, and success stories. Further inspiring fellow participants to seek new strategies and partnerships for advancing Africa’s prosperity.
