**Trump Administration Embraces Angola’s Lobito Corridor Railway Project**

The Lobito Corridor, initiated by Biden, finds unexpected support under Trump, aiming for resource access and business opportunities.

 

In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration appears to be embracing the Lobito Corridor railway project in Angola, a significant infrastructure initiative originally unveiled by former President Biden. Spanning 800 miles from Angola's northern border to the Atlantic coast, this $4 billion venture was designed to strengthen American ties with African nations while counteracting China’s growing dominance on the continent.

Upon assuming office, President Trump moved swiftly to reduce longstanding American aid to Africa, leading to concerns that the U.S. might withdraw from its commitments. The fate of the Lobito Corridor had become uncertain as a result. However, recent developments suggest that the Trump administration might be willing to support this key project.

Acting U.S. ambassador to Angola, James Story, recently led a robust delegation of more than a dozen diplomats on a promotional tour of the Lobito Corridor. This visit included meetings with local officials and interactions with business entities, signaling a renewed interest in the rail line's potential. Observers note that this initiative aligns with Trump’s generally business-friendly stance.

Professor Osvaldo Mboco from Angola's Technical University noted that “the Trump administration is all about making business to favor the United States,” hinting at a potential shift in focus toward resource extraction, particularly critical minerals essential for the green energy transition.

As the Trump team continues to assemble its Africa policy team, this engagement with the Lobito Corridor may indicate a new direction—one that retains continuity with valued American projects initiated by prior administrations while seeking to prioritize business interests on the continent.