João Lourenço: “Lobito Corridor will drive economic development”

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Lobito, Angola – Angolan President João Lourenço emphasized on Wednesday that the Lobito Corridor will be a key driver of economic development, enabling greater participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in value chains, particularly in the agricultural sector.

President Lourenço made these remarks during the Multilateral Summit on the Lobito Corridor, currently taking place in Benguela Province. The summit is attended by heads of state from the United States, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania.

The Angolan leader highlighted the strategic importance of the rail infrastructure in fostering inclusive trade and economic growth across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and East Africa. “This vital infrastructure is designed to enhance regional commerce and stimulate economic growth in a manner that benefits all,” Lourenço stated.

He also underscored the need for strong collaboration among all stakeholders. “Recognizing the undeniable political commitment of all parties involved in this grand project, it is crucial for the African countries directly linked, the financiers, and the business consortium holding the concession to take decisive actions to ensure the project’s success,” Lourenço urged.

The Lobito Corridor, a rail network connecting Angola’s Port of Lobito to the mineral-rich regions of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is seen as a transformative infrastructure project. It is expected to boost trade efficiency and regional integration, providing critical support for agricultural and industrial development while strengthening economic ties across Southern and East Africa.