Angola and drc forge 30-year rail concession for dilolo-sakania line

The recently finalized concession agreement outlines an extensive 30-year program for the Dilolo-Sakania railway line. This ambitious project encompasses the comprehensive rehabilitation, modernization, and expansion of the rail network connecting Dilolo in Lualaba province to Sakania in Haut-Katanga. The agreement also grants operating rights for the duration of the concession.

Under the terms of this significant deal, the Congolese state will maintain full ownership of the railway infrastructure. Furthermore, it will hold a minimum of 10% equity in the project company established for this endeavor. Upon the conclusion of the 30-year concession period, all upgraded and extended infrastructure will seamlessly transfer back to the direct control of the Congolese government.

The concessionaire will bear the full financial responsibility and all operational risks associated with traffic, without any sovereign guarantees or operating subsidies from the Democratic Republic of Congo. President Félix Tshisekedi has underscored the anticipated national economic benefits, which include substantial job creation, skill development for young Congolese, increased engagement of local businesses, and vital technology transfer.

This crucial corridor is designed to facilitate the transport of a diverse range of goods and people. Beyond its primary role in moving minerals, it will also serve to dispatch agricultural produce, industrial inputs, hydrocarbons, containerized cargo, consumer goods, and provide passenger services.

In a broader move towards regional integration, Kinshasa and Luanda are also committed to harmonizing their respective railway operations, standardizing tariffs, and streamlining customs procedures to ensure seamless cross-border movement.

Valued at an estimated 1.2 billion, this comprehensive project will be complemented by the development of critical cross-border road networks, modern logistics platforms, and robust energy infrastructure. Both nations are additionally focused on revitalizing their cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector and accelerating electrical grid interconnections, particularly to bolster power supply to the mineral-rich Katanga region.