The Lobito Corridor: A Blueprint for Africa’s Next Phase of Growth
By Haim Taib, Founder & President, Menomadin & Mitrelli Group
The world is shifting—fast. As supply chains fracture, climate urgency rises, and global powers recalibrate, Africa is stepping onto the global stage as a strategic partner.
The Lobito Corridor, a flagship initiative supported by the U.S., European Union, and G7 partners, represents more than infrastructure—it’s a continental spine for economic integration. Running from Angola’s Atlantic coast through Zambia and the DRC, and with future extensions to Tanzania and beyond, it will cut mineral transport time from over 30 days to just 6. But speed alone is not the point. The true promise of the corridor lies in the people it connects—more than 40 million lives across three countries.
We must not treat the Lobito as just a logistics project. It is a test of our collective commitment to inclusive, sustainable development. I believe it must evolve from steel and stone into a living artery—bringing clean water, reliable energy, education, and digital access to underserved communities along the way.
That’s why I partnered with Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund to co-found the $1 billion Lobito Corridor Impact Development Platform—an open, independent financial vehicle designed to attract private investment into infrastructure, agriculture, digital services, vocational training, and industrial development. While this is my personal initiative, it reflects a broader truth: if we want to see Africa thrive, we need new models that bridge private capital with public purpose.
At Mitrelli, our mission is to implement what truly matters: infrastructure that connects—and human accelerators that empower. We are active along the Lobito Corridor and far beyond, delivering solutions to people living in rural villages as well as urban centers. Whether it’s clean water, off-grid energy, digital classrooms, or agro-industrial zones—our work is designed with local leaders and communities, not just for them.
By 2050, Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.5 billion, with over 40% of the world’s youth under 18 living on the continent. This rapid growth will shape the future of our world, as in just 15 years, Africa will contribute more people to the global workforce than all other regions combined.
To fully harness this immense potential, partnerships are essential—particularly with nations like the United States, whose innovation, expertise, and investment capabilities can play a transformative role. This is why Mitrelli recently opened a new office in Washington, D.C.—a strategic step that underscores our commitment to scaling public-private collaborations. Together, we can turn the Lobito Corridor into more than just a transportation artery; it can become a globally significant platform for shared prosperity—bridging U.S. capital and expertise with African talent and local solutions.
As the U.S.-Africa Business Summit approaches and Angola prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, one thing is evident: Africa holds the key to addressing many of the world’s pressing challenges. However, realizing this potential requires collaboration, investment, and visionary leadership.
The Lobito Corridor represents more than just a logistical challenge—it symbolizes our readiness to embrace this pivotal opportunity. The potential it holds is immense, and its impact could shape generations to come.
Let’s build it—together.
