In the current context of global energy transition, access to strategic minerals has become a major issue for many countries, including the United States and the European Union. These two economic powers are seeking to secure their supply of essential minerals for the production of green technologies, such as batteries for electric vehicles. It is in this context that the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, rich in mineral resources, are attracting growing interest.
To reduce logistics costs and facilitate the transport of these minerals, a major project has been launched on the Lobito corridor, involving the DRC, Angola and Zambia. Since October 2023, these countries have undertaken the rehabilitation of more than 1,300 kilometers of railways to connect the mining areas of Zambia and the DRC to the Atlantic Ocean via Angola. This infrastructure project will thus facilitate the export of strategic minerals to global markets.
While Angola and Zambia are moving forward rapidly with the implementation of this project, challenges persist on the DRC side. Indeed, the renovation work on the Dilolo-Kolwezi railway line is slow to start, jeopardizing the full realization of the Lobito corridor. This situation raises questions about the DRC’s ability to fully exploit its mining potential and benefit from the economic spinoffs of this crucial regional project.
In this context, the podcast “Fatshimetrie”, produced in partnership with Resource Matters, explores in depth the issues and challenges related to the Lobito corridor project. Hosted by Yassin Kombi and produced by Olivier Muamba, this podcast offers an insightful analysis of the behind the scenes of this major project. In parallel, the haunting music of Samuel Hirsch accompanies the reflections and debates on the political, economic and social implications of this regional initiative.
In conclusion, access to strategic minerals for the energy transition is a key issue for the United States, the European Union and other international actors. The Lobito Corridor project represents a major opportunity for the DRC and Zambia to develop their mineral resources and actively contribute to the transition to a greener economy. It is now up to the authorities of these countries to overcome the obstacles and successfully complete this project of capital importance for the future of the region.