Angola strongly reaffirmed last week, during the High-Level Conference on the Mattei Plan for Africa and the European Union’s Global Gateway in Rome, the strategic pivotal role of the Lobito corridor for the future of transport and logistics in Southern Africa and beyond. The presence of the Ministry of Transport at this high-profile event underscores the country’s ambition to position this key infrastructure as an essential driver of connectivity and economic development on a regional scale.
The importance of the Lobito corridor was also highlighted by Helaina Matza, coordinator of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure (PGI), who recalled President Donald Trump’s continued support for this major project. This commitment from the United States demonstrates the international recognition of this connection’s strategic potential to facilitate trade and stimulate growth in Africa.
A Valued Geostrategic Positioning
Eugénio Fernandes, Director of Concession Economics at the Angolan Ministry of Transport, convincingly presented Angola’s vision regarding the role of the Lobito corridor. He emphasized the country’s unique geostrategic positioning and the ability of this infrastructure to transform trade flows and optimize regional logistics chains:
“The creation of a smart infrastructure network enables the development of multiple operators and generates synergy effects in several areas, with functional and operational impacts. Angola, due to its positioning and natural resources, combined with new national and international political dynamics, is one of the main logistics players in Southern Africa.”
This statement highlights Angola’s awareness of its central role in the African logistics landscape. The country intends to capitalize on its privileged geographical location to become an essential hub for the transport of goods across the continent and to international markets.
Private Investment and Modernization: Keys to Transformation
The Angolan government’s approach to strengthening the Lobito corridor is based on a strong commitment to private investment and modernization of existing infrastructure. This strategy aims to transform this corridor into a true development axis, capable of effectively connecting the region to strategic markets in Europe and the Americas. By facilitating trade and optimizing the supply chain, Angola aims to create new economic opportunities and promote sustainable growth for the entire continent.
A Future of Connectivity and Progress for Africa
Angola’s notable presence at the Rome conference and the ambitious statements from its representatives underscore the country’s determination to play a leading role in the development of the transport, logistics, and trade in Africa sectors. The Lobito corridor, with international support and the commitment of the Angolan government, is set to become a major catalyst for connectivity, opportunities, and progress for the entire African continent. Angola clearly displays its ambition to build a future where trade flows are smooth, supply chains are robust, and economic development is shared.
