World Bank Boosts Regional Cooperation for Lobito Corridor to Drive Trade and Growth
World Bank Managing Director of Operations, Anna Bjerde, is in Angola from February 4–6, 2026, for the first high-level coordination meeting focused on the Lobito Corridor.
The meeting brings together finance, transport, and trade ministers from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia to strengthen regional collaboration on this strategic infrastructure linking southern and central Africa to international markets.
The discussions aim to align public policies, coordinate investments, and mobilize public and private partners to accelerate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance cross-border trade. Ms. Bjerde emphasized the World Bank Group’s long-term commitment to sustainable development in the three countries and the importance of strong government leadership to translate the corridor’s potential into tangible outcomes.
She also highlighted the need for a unified approach across World Bank entities to promote economic diversification, attract private investment, and deliver inclusive benefits for communities along the corridor.
In addition to the Lobito Corridor, the meeting addressed regional priorities such as expanding energy access through the Mission 300 initiative, strengthening agricultural and agri-food value chains via the AgriConnect program, and improving digital connectivity.
Ms. Bjerde is scheduled for a one-on-one meeting with Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to discuss the World Bank Group’s engagement in Angola and shared regional priorities.
As of January 1, 2026, the World Bank’s portfolio in Angola totals approximately US$4.9 billion, including US$4.78 billion for 18 national projects and US$150 million dedicated to a regional operation.
The meeting underscores the World Bank’s commitment to leveraging regional infrastructure to drive growth and integration across southern and central Africa.
