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SADC Secretariat Launches Lobito Corridor Interim Secretariat to Boost Regional Trade and Connectivity

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat, in collaboration with the three Lobito Corridor Member States, has launched the Lobito Corridor Transit Transport Interim Secretariat Headquarters in Lobito, Angola. This follows the 2nd Lobito Corridor Committee of Ministers meeting held on January 22, 2025.

During the meeting, Honourable Ricardo Viegas de Abreu, Minister of Transport of Angola, emphasized that the Lobito Corridor serves as a catalyst for intra-African trade, enhancing Africa’s global market competitiveness. 

He highlighted that planned infrastructure developments will reduce transit times and logistical costs, boosting regional competitiveness. Honourable Viegas de Abreu also acknowledged the support of international partners, including the United States, the European Union, Italy, and the United Kingdom, in reinforcing the corridor’s strategic importance.

Honourable Museba F. Tayali, Minister of Transport and Logistics of Zambia, stated that the Lobito Development Corridor is crucial for facilitating trade and economic growth in the region. 

He stressed the need for infrastructure development and operational structures, noting that well-planned corridors can increase trade volumes by 30%, create jobs, and attract investment. He expressed optimism that the corridor would streamline the flow of goods and services to the Port of Lobito, stimulating economic activity.

Representing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mr. Roger Te Biasu, Coordinator of the Support and Monitoring Unit for Regional Programs and Transport Corridor Activities (CEPCOR), affirmed the DRC’s commitment to the Lobito Corridor project. 

He highlighted its strategic importance for mining operators in Katanga Province, offering a shorter, cost-effective transport route of 1,775 kilometers from Kolwezi to Lobito Port.

SADC Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, Ms. Angele Makombo N’tumba, commended the progress made in infrastructure projects, such as the Zambia-Lobito Greenfield railway and the movement of goods via the Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR). 

She stressed that the corridor aligns with SADC protocols, including the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2020-2030) and the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap (SISR 2015-2063).

The Ministers approved the Lobito Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (LCTTFA) documents, budget, and organ structures, ensuring the Interim Secretariat’s operationalisation. 

The Secretariat will oversee key infrastructure projects, including the Zambia-Lobito Railway Greenfield Project and the rehabilitation of the Dilolo-Kolwezi Railway. 

These initiatives are expected to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate in value chains, fostering economic development and reducing unemployment. 

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