The Zambia-Lobito greenfield rail project will break ground in early-2026, according to the project’s lead developer the African Finance Corporation (AFC). The project will link key mining regions, agriculture clusters and businesses in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the Port of Lobito in Angola.
Upon completion, the rail corridor is expected to reduce travel time from the Zambian and DRC copperbelts from 45 days to seven days, while reducing 300,000 tons of annual CO2 emissions. The project cost is estimated at $1 billion, of which the AFC is mobilizing $500 million through various financial instruments.
According to AFC President and CEO Samaila Zubairu, the Lobito Corridor project “symbolizes what Africa’s leadership, together with our global partners, can achieve when we unite behind a shared vision. It is not just about railways or minerals or food security; it is about fostering partnerships, creating jobs and driving a sustainable future for Africa and the world.”
Speaking during a ceremony held as part of U.S. President Joe Biden’s visit to Angola this week, the AFC’s Zubairu also announced several deals. These include an MoU signed with critical minerals company KoBold Metals for the transportation of 300,000 tons of copper and related freight annually. The AFC also signed a deal with Kobaloni Energy, committing $100 million for the development of Zambia’s first battery-grade copper sulphate facility.
The Lobito rail project is being developed by the Lobito Corridor consortium, comprising the AFC alongside the U.S. government, the European Union, the African Development Bank and the governments of Angola, the DRC and Zambia.