The Lobito Corridor project in Africa is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at creating a vital trade route. It seeks to connect the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of the Congo (“DRC”) and Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic coast port city of Lobito. This project holds particular interest for some Western nations, potentially serving as a counterpoint to China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative (“BRI”). China remains a dominant economic force in Africa,
Category: Railway News
Zambia Calls for Railway Sector Investment to Boost Regional Connectivity
Zambia’s Transport and Logistics Minister, Frank Tayali, is advocating for increased investment in the country’s railway sector, aiming to modernize and enhance connectivity both domestically and across borders. Tayali’s call for action follows the recent Third Zambia Land-linked Conference and Exhibition in Indaba, where the crucial role of robust transport infrastructure in regional economic development was underscored. Highlighting the significance of revitalizing the railway system, Minister Tayali emphasized Zambia’s ambition
Zambia Eyes “Once-in-a-Lifetime” Opportunity with Angolan Rail Link
President Hakainde Hichilema foresees a significant economic shift for Zambia, with a US-backed project poised to link the nation’s copper mines to Angola’s port of Lobito, offering unprecedented opportunities. This ambitious initiative, supported by global powers like the US, EU, and G7, aims to establish the Lobito Corridor, a transformative railway network spanning Zambia and Angola. The Lobito Corridor project promises to revolutionize transit times for mining supplies and exports,
Newlyn Group Launches New Rail Terminal to Boost Trade in Durban
Port logistics company, the Newlyn Group, unveiled the Newlyn PX Bayhead rail terminal on April 4, strategically positioned next to the Port of Durban. This initiative aims to enhance intra-Africa and local trade while fostering investment opportunities. Newlyn CEO, Raj Balmakhun, described the launch as a significant achievement for South Africa, showcasing the synergy between the private sector and the government for national progress. President Cyril Ramaphosa, present at the
The Lobito Corridor and its Impact on Regional Growth
The African Development Bank (AfDB) spearheaded a landmark initiative in October 2023 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S., the European Commission, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and the governments of Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to develop the Lobito Corridor. This ambitious project aims to connect the DRC and Zambia’s copper belts to international markets via Angola’s Port of Lobito, positioning southern
Transnet Freight Rail’s North Corridor Achieves Record Weekly Volume
Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR’s) North Corridor achieved a significant milestone by delivering 1.41 million tonnes last week, marking the highest weekly volume for the current financial year. This accomplishment includes transporting 1.18 million tonnes of export coal to the Richards Bay Coal Terminal and operating 11 chrome trains. Surpassing the previous record of 1.40 million tonnes, this achievement not only highlights the corridor’s exceptional performance but also sets a new
US Backs Lobito Corridor Railway with Record Investment
In February of this year, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced groundbreaking financing to bolster the Lobito Corridor—a transformative 1,300-km railway linking Angola’s Port of Lobito with southern DRC and northwestern Zambia. This initiative, supported by a consortium including the European Commission, African Development Bank, and Africa Finance Corporation, has already secured nearly $1 billion, marking the largest joint investment by the U.S. and EU in Africa in
4 Railway Projects to Watch in West Africa
With West Africa’s population surpassing 450 million and its vast oil, gas and critical mineral resources being put into production, the region has experienced steady economic growth at an average annual rate of 6% over the last decade. Projected infrastructure needs indicate a necessary annual investment of approximately $180 billion by 2025. Vital to this development are ongoing railway projects aimed at supporting the region’s economic growth, facilitating the transport
Benguela Business Leaders Urged to Grasp Opportunities in Lobito Corridor and Refinery
Governor Luís Nunes of Benguela province rallied local entrepreneurs to seize the potential presented by the Corridor and Refinery in Lobito. Speaking at the inauguration of Aliança Empresarial’s new headquarters, Nunes emphasized the critical role of unity among business leaders. With Aliança Empresarial expanding its membership by four, including notable organizations like the Angola Industrial Association (AIA) and the League of Businessmen and Executives of Angola – PRESTIGIO, the province
Coal port development in Mozambique back on track
Thai Moçambique Logistica (TML) is reviving its initiative to construct a coal port in Macuse, Mozambique, near the Zambezi River mouth. Despite the waning interest in Mozambique’s coal industry, TML is committed to proceeding with its long-term investment, having secured US$500 million for the project. Construction is slated to begin in mid-2024 on a 5.3 square kilometer parcel of land designated for the port, as reported by Bulk Materials International.