An initiative organized by the U.S. Embassy in Angola aims to demonstrate the United States’ commitment to Angola’s security, along with investments in infrastructure and demining along the Lobito Corridor. This corridor refers to the railway that traverses Angola, extending 1,300 kilometers and linking Lobito port with the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
From April 1 to 3, Ambassador James Story, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires for Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, will be joined by 17 ambassadors from various countries, as well as senior Angolan officials and business leaders, in visiting key sites of this significant project. The corridor is essential for the transportation of critical minerals, an importance emphasized by European and American stakeholders.
“During the visit, Ambassador Story and the accompanying delegation of ambassadors will engage with local communities, demining experts, and government officials to highlight the transformative impact of these initiatives on people’s lives,” the statement reads.
The itinerary includes visits to the Biópio Solar Park, which leads the SunAfrica project; the company Pensana, which has received .4 million in preliminary financing for feasibility studies aimed at developing a rare earth mine and refining facility along the Lobito Corridor; and the Lobito port’s mineral terminal.
The visit precedes the U.S.-Africa Business Summit, scheduled to take place in Luanda in June, underscoring the growth of bilateral trade and investment relations between Angola and other countries on the continent.
“Moreover, the visit signals to American companies that the Lobito Corridor is ‘open for business,'” the embassy statement adds.
