The importance of the Lobito Corridor in fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development in the region was recently highlighted by the EU-Angola Dialogues team, which visited Benguela.
According to a press release sent to Jornal de Angola, the Lobito Corridor is part of the European Union’s Global “Gateway” strategy and is a central element in its cooperation with Africa, contributing to regional economic growth and integration.
The project, the statement explains, involves the development and expansion of transportation infrastructure linking Angola to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, boosting regional trade and economic integration.
As a result, the Lobito Corridor is considered a strategic priority for the EU and its international partners. Benguela province, along with other areas covered by the Corridor, plays a crucial role in maximizing the impact of this strategic tool for sustainable economic development and regional integration.
Presentation of Proposals
The EU-Angola Dialogues team was recently received in Benguela by the provincial governor, Manuel Nunes Júnior, accompanied by the vice-governors for Political, Social, and Economic Affairs, Cátia Cachuco, and for Technical Services and Infrastructure, Adilson Gonçalves.
The meeting, according to the source, provided an opportunity to present the EU-Angola Dialogues program and explore opportunities to support Dialogue Actions under the 4th Call for Proposals (CAP4).
These opportunities aim to strengthen the partnership and cooperation between Angolan and European institutions, guided by the shared commitment to mutual sustainable development.
In particular, the statement notes, ideas were explored for initiatives that would accelerate the promotion of the Lobito Corridor as a tool for the integrated economic and social development of Benguela province and improve the living conditions of the local population.
During the visit, the EU-Angola Dialogues team held a working session with Cátia Cachuco, vice-governor for Political, Social, and Economic Affairs, to discuss specific aspects of the potential Dialogue Actions and prepare applications for the CAP4 funding.
The CAP4 proposals from the EU-Angola Dialogues provide €300,000 for applications submitted by public Angolan institutions, including provincial governments, by February 7, 2025, the press release clarified.
