Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are strengthening their bilateral relationship through joint hydrocarbon exploration, power grid integration, and regional transport development.
Key projects such as the co-development of Block 14/23 in the Maritime Zone of Common Interest, electricity interconnection initiatives, and the Lobito Corridor railway are expected to advance cross-border trade and energy security, underscoring the value of regional collaboration.
In April, Angola’s government approved a landmark agreement defining revenue sharing and compliance terms for Block 14/23, a key offshore oil concession jointly developed with the DRC.
Signed by President João Lourenço, the agreement outlines management structures and tax obligations for the block, located in a jointly administered maritime zone.
Earlier this year, Angola’s parliament authorized amendments to the Block 14 oil concession in the Lower Congo Basin.
This involved separating the Negaje and Menongue development areas to form part of the new Block 14/23 concession.
The reconfiguration is intended to enhance geological understanding, reverse production decline, and optimize development efforts.
The amendment is projected to unlock an estimated 298 million barrels of oil, secure a $15 million signature bonus, and generate approximately $5.7 billion in revenue through taxes and national contributions.
Despite its cross-border positioning, Block 14/23 will be operated under Angolan jurisdiction by a consortium comprising Chevron (operator), Azule Energy, Galp, and Sonangol E&P.
The Angola-DRC partnership is also gaining momentum in infrastructure and energy. Angola plans to commence construction of a 260-km section of the Benguela Railway as part of the broader Lobito Corridor initiative.
This $10 billion project aims to connect the Port of Lobito with the DRC and Zambia’s mineral-rich regions, facilitating the export of copper and cobalt while reducing transportation costs.
The project is supported by a $200 million investment from the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
Additionally, Angola is participating in the Boucle de l’Amitié Énergétique project, a strategic power initiative linking the electricity grids of Angola, the DRC, and the Republic of Congo via a 1,400 kV transmission line.
This EU-backed project is designed to alleviate chronic power shortages, enhance grid stability, and stimulate industrial development across the region.
Through coordinated efforts in energy exploration and infrastructure expansion, Angola and the DRC are laying the foundation for stronger regional integration.
These initiatives not only improve economic prospects but also reinforce political cooperation and long-term development across Central and Southern Africa.
