Joe Biden announced a significant investment in Africa through the Lobito Corridor, a railway and commercial project aimed at improving mineral exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia via Angola’s Lobito port. This initiative emphasizes high labor and environmental standards, with a $600 million investment expected to transform transportation efficiency. The project has garnered support from leaders in the region and aims to position the U.S. as a competitive partner in Africa, particularly against China’s influence.
A Historic Investment in Africa: The Lobito Corridor
On Wednesday, Joe Biden made a groundbreaking announcement in Angola, referring to the “Lobito Corridor” as a transformative investment of his presidency in Africa. This significant railway and commercial route is designed to connect the eastern and western parts of the continent.
The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the export of essential minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia through the Angolan port of Lobito. Biden emphasized that this project adheres to the highest standards for labor, environmental sustainability, and benefits for local communities, highlighting that the manner in which the U.S. invests in Africa is as crucial as the financial contributions themselves.
Impact on Regional Development and Cooperation
As Biden fulfills his promise to visit Africa before the transition of power to his rival, Donald Trump, he underscores the significance of this moment. The 82-year-old president, appearing somewhat fatigued during discussions with leaders from Angola, Zambia, the DRC, and Tanzania, remarked, “Imagine the impact this will have on technology, green energy, agriculture, and food security,” while announcing an additional investment of $600 million in the Lobito Corridor project.
This visit marks the first formal trip by a sitting U.S. president to Africa since 2015, and Biden’s arrival in Angola is a historic milestone. He humorously noted his intention to “come back to take this train,” further illustrating his commitment to advancing rail transport.
Leaders from the involved nations expressed their enthusiasm for the project. Angolan President Joao Lourenço referred to it as a “crucial step,” while Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema highlighted the “huge opportunities” it presents. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi characterized the initiative as a “symbol of our collective will.”
The Lobito Corridor is anticipated to significantly decrease the transport duration of minerals from DRC and Zambia to the coast—from 45 days via road to just 40 to 50 hours by train. An American official expressed confidence that Trump would endorse the initiative, stating, “You cannot claim to be competing with China and not support what is happening here.”
To ensure the success of the Lobito Corridor, cooperation between the U.S. and China will be essential, as China has a dominant presence in the mining sectors of the DRC and Zambia. Biden’s administration aims to re-engage with African nations, which have been overlooked in recent years, focusing on securing a reliable supply of metals and strategic raw materials necessary for technological advancements and energy transitions.
While China has made substantial investments in the region, Washington insists on offering more targeted initiatives that respect the interests of African countries, which have faced challenges from unsustainable debt burdens imposed by Beijing.