The Port of Maputo is set to begin its ambitious container and coal terminal expansion projects in the first half of this year. These initiatives are central to the operational upgrades envisioned under the extended concession agreement granted to Sociedade de Desenvolvimento do Porto de Maputo (MPDC), the port’s managing entity. According to MPDC, the expansion aims to solidify the Port of Maputo’s role as a critical hub for trade
Category: Southern Africa
EU Commits to Supporting Sustainable Development of Lobito Corridor
The European Union (EU) has expressed its interest in participating in the development of the Lobito Corridor, recognizing its potential for sustainable and inclusive economic diversification, including increased household income in the region. Sylvie Millot, Head of the EU’s Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Unit, confirmed this on Friday in Benguela, following a courtesy meeting with the provincial governor of Benguela. She emphasized that the Lobito Corridor is a key
AIA Calls for Feasibility Study to Enhance Lobito Corridor’s Economic Impact
Members of the Angolan Industrial Association (AIA) have emphasized the importance of conducting a feasibility study for the construction of connection branches between key large-scale production centers and the Lobito Corridor. This initiative is seen as a priority to maximize the economic benefits of this significant infrastructure, which serves both the Angolan economy and the southern region of Africa. The message was conveyed by the president of the association, José
Namibia and Zambia Advance Efforts to Operationalize Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post
Namibia and Zambia have taken a significant step toward operationalizing the Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) through the inaugural Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting. The meeting, held in Sesheke, Zambia, from January 13 to 17, 2025, focuses on establishing governance structures and frameworks to implement a bilateral agreement signed in June 2024. Led by the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA), the week-long discussions involve representatives from various border agencies. Jacqueline
Walvis Bay Positioned as Key Southern Africa Transshipment Hub by MSC
The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has officially designated the Port of Walvis Bay as a crucial transshipment hub for Southern Africa with the launch of its Namibia Express route. This strategic move aims to strengthen trade links between Africa, Europe, and global markets, cementing Namibia’s role in international logistics. MSC recently announced plans to enhance its North West Continent (NWC) to South Africa service and introduce two new routes: the
Botswana’s Transport Minister Tours Kazungula Bridge, Highlights Regional Impact
Botswana’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Noah S.L.M. Salakae, recently visited the Kazungula Bridge and the One Stop Border Post as part of a familiarization tour organized by the Kazungula Bridge Project Office (KBPO). The visit, held on Friday, provided the minister with a firsthand view of the project’s progress and its strategic importance to the region. Accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Transport and other key stakeholders, Minister
Zambia and DRC Agree to Clear 500 Trucks Daily to Ease Border Congestion
Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have reached an agreement to clear at least 500 trucks daily at the Kasumbalesa border, aiming to alleviate severe congestion on the Copperbelt. The decision follows reports of over 3,000 trucks stranded on the Zambian side of the border. Katanga Governor Jacques Katwe announced that customs officers’ working hours at Kasumbalesa, Mokambo, and Sakanya border posts will be extended from 6 hours
SADC Ministers to Convene for the 2nd Lobito Corridor Committee Meeting
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat is set to host the 2nd meeting of the Lobito Corridor Committee of Ministers, bringing together representatives from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. The Ministers will assess progress made by the Technical Working Group, established during their inaugural meeting on December 16, 2023, in Lobito, Angola. This group was tasked with setting up and operationalizing the Lobito Corridor Transit
Port of Maputo Demonstrates Resilience with 30.9 Million Tonnes Handled in 2024
The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) has announced a total cargo volume of 30.9 million tonnes handled in 2024. While this marks a slight 1% decrease from the previous year, the Port of Maputo’s performance underscores its resilience and adaptability amidst significant logistical challenges. MPDC’s direct operations showed strong growth, handling 14.2 million tonnes, a 14% increase compared to 2023. Road freight volumes saw notable growth, rising by 11% from
$700 Million Set for Phase One of Kinshasa-Brazzaville Bridge Project
The total cost of the first phase of the Kinshasa-Brazzaville road-rail bridge construction project is estimated at $700 million. This figure was announced during a restitution meeting held on Wednesday, January 15, 2024, and chaired by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa. The meeting brought together delegations of experts from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo. DRC’s Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works, Alexis Gisaro, emphasized that