The Italian Government has pledged a significant $270 million investment towards the development of the Lobito Corridor, a major railway infrastructure project designed to link Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The initiative is poised to enhance regional connectivity and accelerate economic integration, opening up more efficient trade routes within the Southern African region.
The announcement was made by Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) President Samaila Zubairu during a press briefing in Washington D.C. He was joined by Zambia’s Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane and Angola’s Transport Minister Ricardo de Abreu. In addition to the $270 million commitment, Mr. Zubairu revealed that Italy has provided an extra $50 million directly to AFC to support the ongoing work on the corridor.
“The Lobito Corridor has attracted strong continental and external support, making it a highly promising partnership that will strengthen regional links and significantly boost intra-African trade,” Mr. Zubairu remarked. His comments underscore the project’s potential to stimulate economic growth and enhance trade among African nations while also drawing international investors.
The Lobito Corridor, which connects the mineral-rich regions of Zambia and the DRC to Angola’s port city of Lobito, is a key infrastructure project for the region. Dr. Musokotwane emphasized its critical importance for Zambia, particularly in light of the country’s growing mining sector. “The Lobito Corridor will be instrumental in transporting critical minerals, which will fuel both Zambia’s and the DRC’s expanding mining activities,” he said. The railway line is also expected to create jobs, foster regional integration, and drive economic development across the three countries.
Minister Musokotwane also expressed appreciation for the support the project has received from international partners, including the United States. He specifically acknowledged the backing provided during the Trump administration, highlighting the strategic significance of the Lobito Corridor in advancing Africa’s infrastructure goals.
The Lobito Corridor is part of a broader effort to improve trade infrastructure across Africa, which will position the continent as a more competitive player in the global minerals supply chain. With strong backing from the Italian Government, AFC, and the African Development Bank (AfDB), the project is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing regional trade and economic development.