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 priority for the EU in both Angola and the broader region.
Millot explained that the EU views the Lobito Corridor not only as a transportation route but as a comprehensive economic corridor that can drive regional development. This corridor now connects five provinces: Benguela, Huambo, Bié, Moxico, and Moxico East.
As part of the EU’s efforts to energize the Lobito Corridor, agriculture will be a major focus area, with the EU planning significant investments in the sector.
Additionally, energy development and human resource capacity-building are critical components of the EU’s strategy, aimed at supporting the emerging business dynamics in the region.
The EU is also committed to working in other key sectors, such as sanitation, fisheries, and other critical areas of regional importance.
Millot clarified that the EU is one of the signatories of a memorandum of understanding involving Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and the United States, marking the EU’s full commitment to this initiative.
Another crucial area of focus is promoting investment and trade, which is expected to yield positive results for the region.
The EU is also prioritizing environmental protection and biodiversity, with agreements signed in Paris between President João Lourenço of Angola and EU Commissioner Siquela on Friday. These projects are slated for development in the coming years.
Millot noted that the visit to Benguela coincided with President João Lourenço’s trip to Paris, where three significant financing agreements were signed with the European Commission, totaling €76 million. These funds are allocated to three key areas, including vocational training.
“We are very pleased with the developments in this region. We are aligned with the priorities of the Provincial Government of Benguela, and this alignment gives us confidence as we move forward,” Millot stated.
She also assured that the EU would continue to engage with Benguela and other regions along the Lobito Corridor for ongoing development efforts.
The discussions with Benguela’s Provincial Governor, Manuel Nunes Júnior, were described as open and productive.
Millot highlighted the positive alignment between the EU’s goals and the region’s development needs, particularly in promoting growth and creating job opportunities for youth.
The EU delegation to Benguela included Sylvie Millot, Hugo van Tilborg, Head of the Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Unit at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, and the Lobito Corridor Program Manager, among other members.
During their visit, the delegation met with the provincial governor of Benguela, Manuel Nunes Júnior, visited Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR), toured the Port of Lobito, and engaged with local civil society organizations, the private sector, and representatives from local universities.
