US President Joe Biden’s upcoming visit to Angola, scheduled for December 2-4, highlights a project of major strategic importance: the Lobito Trans-African Corridor. This corridor, linking Angola to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is at the heart of current diplomatic discussions. It symbolizes the United States’ efforts to strengthen economic partnerships in Africa and underscores the crucial role that the DRC plays in this new era of sustainable cooperation.
This infrastructure project is designed to connect the port of Lobito to the rich mining regions of the DRC and Zambia, with prospects of extending to Tanzania. The goal is clear: to significantly reduce transport times for minerals essential to the global energy transition, such as cobalt and copper. Imagine: going from 45 days to 45 hours to transport these critical resources thanks to better logistics connectivity. A major leap forward for the economy and the environment.
A senior US official highlighted the importance of this infrastructure by emphasizing its positive impacts, particularly on regional food security. Indeed, a better logistics network not only promotes the transport of minerals, but also access to food, thus strengthening the resilience of local populations.
But this project goes beyond the economy: it also embodies a commitment to regional peace and stability. Angola, through its involvement in conflict resolution, particularly in eastern DRC, plays a key role in consolidating peace in Central Africa. President Biden plans to salute Luanda’s leadership in this approach, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation for a peaceful and prosperous future.
The United States, by promoting economic partnerships based on high standards, seeks to offer an alternative to Chinese financing in Africa. It is essential that these investments are integrated into a dynamic of sustainable local development, thus avoiding unsustainable debt for partner countries. The Lobito Trans-African Corridor project illustrates this commitment to balanced economic growth that respects people and the environment.
In conclusion, the DRC occupies a central place in this new era of partnerships and cooperation. Its strategic role in the development of the Lobito Trans-African Corridor reinforces its positioning as a key player in regional economic integration in Africa. Infrastructure projects supported by the United States open new perspectives for a prosperous and sustainable future on the African continent.