Luanda: President João Lourenço has awarded Haim Taib the Peace and Development Medal (Classe Paz e Desenvolvimento) in recognition of his long-standing partnership with Angola and his contributions to strengthening the nation's economic and social foundations.
According to African Press Organization, Haim Taib, a businessman, investor, and philanthropist with over 40 years of experience—more than 35 of which have been in Africa—has built a powerful value chain of companies and initiatives. He has led over 100 national-scale projects and mobilized investments that have improved lives and supported sustainable growth across the continent.
Taib arrived in Angola in 1991, during the civil war, recognizing the country's resilience and potential. He began his work with a vision to transform peace into progress, mobilizing financial and human resources to contribute during economically and socially challenging times. Following the war, he succeeded in implementing self-sustaining communities based on food production. The initiative Aldeia Nova became a symbol of peace and a new chapter for agri-industrial development.
Building on that foundation, Taib led the next phase of growth through his ecosystem of companies, including Mitrelli, Luminar, Menomadin, and JETA. These companies became strategic partners for major sectors such as human development, water, food security, energy, housing, education, healthcare, and technology. They implemented significant national solutions, including water for all, advanced hospitals, entrepreneur centers, vocational schools, and telecommunication operations.
In 2025, Taib co-founded the Lobito Corridor Impact Development (LCID) Platform with Angola's Sovereign Wealth Fund. This USD 1 billion private-sector-led initiative, with USD 100 million already committed, represents a new generation of financing mechanisms that blend public purpose with private capital. It aims to unlock infrastructure, trade, agriculture, and education across Angola, the DRC, and Zambia.
None of these achievements would have been possible without the partnership and trust of the Government of Angola, local authorities, business and financial partners, and the communities and employees who collaborated in these efforts. Over the years, these projects have created tens of thousands of jobs, provided electricity and water to millions, built new homes and hospitals, and empowered youth through innovation, education, and culture.
Taib's vision for social development is embodied in the Fundação Arte e Cultura, which empowers young Angolans through art, education, and culture. As Angola celebrates 50 years of independence, the Classe Paz e Desenvolvimento medal honors Haim Taib's enduring contribution to the nation's peace and development.
"This recognition belongs as much to the people of Angola as it does to me," said Haim Taib. "It is a tribute to our shared belief that when people can dream, they can create. They can change. They can build their future with their own hands. I share this honor with everyone in our Group, the wonderful people whose dedication, values, and belief in this vision have brought it to life and continue to do so every day."