U.S. President Secures African Copper Supply Chain as First Train Reaches Lobito Port
Lobito, Angola – President Joe Biden today witnessed the arrival of a historic train carrying copper ore from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the Angolan port of Lobito. This event marks a key milestone in the development of a new copper supply chain directly linking Africa to the U.S. market.
"The copper will then be loaded onto a ship bound for New Orleans," stated local authorities, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Lobito Corridor in connecting Southern Africa to global markets.
Alongside Biden were the Presidents of Angola, João Lourenço, Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, and the DRC, Félix Tshisekede, as well as Tanzania’s Vice President Philip Mpango. This gathering underscored the international significance of the project.
This shipment marks the second time copper has made its way from the DRC to the U.S. using this route, following a successful inaugural shipment in September.
The train journey, envisioned and partially funded by American investments, is a testament to burgeoning economic cooperation between the U.S. and African nations.
Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR), responsible for rail and logistics services in the region, played a crucial role. The company recently acquired 275 freight cars to facilitate movement of goods along the 1,344-kilometer railway corridor connecting Lobito with the DRC border.
At the Commercial Port of Lobito, President Biden received a briefing from Angolan Transport Minister Ricardo de Abreu. “The Minister explained the nature of product transport and highlighted the capacity and strengths of the port company, one of the largest deep-water ports," eyewitness reports said.
This new copper supply chain holds significant implications for the U.S. economy. As a critical component in numerous industries, including electronics and infrastructure development, securing stable access to copper is crucial for American growth. By diversifying its supply sources, the U.S. is lessening its reliance on traditional suppliers and fostering stronger economic ties with African partners.
This success story underlines the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships between the U.S. and African nations. With continued investment and collaboration, the Lobito Corridor could become a vital gateway for increased trade and development across the continent, and a key contributor to American economic stability and growth.
