What is the Lobito Corridor, cited by US Africa envoy as model for ties?
The Lobito Corridor is a strategic transport route in Angola aimed at enhancing trade and investment in Africa. US officials have cited it as a model for fostering regional integration and economic growth, while critics argue it may exacerbate existing conflicts and serve US interests in securing critical minerals. The corridor's historical context and recent investments highlight the complexities of foreign involvement in African infrastructure projects.
- ▪The Lobito Corridor is a 1,300km rail and transport route linking Angola to mineral-rich regions in the DRC and Zambia.
- ▪US officials view the corridor as a means to boost regional trade and create jobs, while critics warn of neocolonial implications.
- ▪The corridor's foundational infrastructure dates back to colonial times and has undergone significant renovations in recent years.
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EXPLAINERNews|International TradeWhat is the Lobito Corridor, cited by US Africa envoy as model for ties?Washington is set on a trade-focused shift in Africa, but critics say it facilitates further plundering of Africa’s natural resources.ListenListen (9 mins)SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoThe Lobito railway in Angola is part of the US-backed Lobito Corridor [File: Cesar Muginga/Reuters]By Federica MarsiPublished On 27 May 202627 May 2026When veteran naval officer Frank Garcia was appointed by the United States Senate as assistant secretary of state for African affairs this week, he praised the administration of Donald Trump for affirming Washington’s engagement in “trade and investment for mutual…
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