Transforming Africa's Trade and Connectivity: Zambia-Lobito Rail Project Gains Momentum
The Zambia-Lobito Rail project is poised to reshape regional trade and economic integration across Africa, following significant backing during US President Joe Biden's visit to Angola. The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the project's lead developer, has announced a series of pivotal commitments aimed at breaking ground by early 2026.
At the Lobito Corridor Leaders Summit, AFC's President and CEO, Samaila Zubairu, unveiled plans to mobilize $500 million in financing, with overall project funding exceeding $1 billion. Key highlights include:
A partnership with KoBold Metals, securing a guaranteed freight volume of 300,000 tons of copper annually.
A $100 million investment in Zambia's first battery-grade copper sulphate facility, bolstering value chain growth.
This transformative railway will link Zambia's Copperbelt to the Port of Lobito on Angola's Atlantic coast, creating a low-carbon, high-efficiency gateway to global markets. With plans to extend connectivity to Tanzania's Port of Dar es Salaam, the project will effectively bridge the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, fostering regional integration.
The railway is expected to:
Reduce transport time from the Copperbelt to global markets from 45 days to 7 days.
Cut emissions by at least 300,000 tons of CO2 annually, reinforcing Africa's leadership in the global energy transition.
Unlock new opportunities in ecotourism, agribusiness, and sustainable mining operations.
“This is not just a railway—it’s an economic corridor driving jobs, sustainability, and African competitiveness,” said Mr. Zubairu.
With backing from the US, EU, African Development Bank, and regional governments, the Lobito Corridor exemplifies a new era of strategic infrastructure investment. It highlights Africa’s commitment to delivering integrated, high-impact solutions that position the continent as a pivotal player in global markets.
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