The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Angola have officially signed a significant concession agreement for the vital Dilolo-Sakania railway line. This ambitious project aims to dramatically enhance regional connectivity and economic activity.

The comprehensive concession outlines a thirty-year term for the rehabilitation, modernization, extension, and operation of this critical railway link, stretching from Dilolo in Lualaba province to Sakania in Haut-Katanga. This strategic infrastructure development is set to transform transport capabilities across the region.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Congolese state will maintain full ownership of the railway infrastructure. Furthermore, the DRC will retain a minimum of 10% equity in the project company established for this endeavor. Upon the conclusion of the thirty-year concession period, all upgraded infrastructure will be fully transferred back to the Congolese state.

A key aspect of this Dilolo-Sakania railway project is that the concessionaire will bear all financing responsibilities and traffic-related risks without any sovereign guarantee or operational subsidies from the DRC. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has underscored the significant national economic benefits anticipated from this undertaking, including robust job creation, comprehensive youth training programs, increased engagement of local businesses, and crucial technology transfer initiatives.

This transformative rail corridor is designed to facilitate the transport of a diverse range of goods. Beyond minerals, it will also support the movement of agricultural products, industrial inputs, hydrocarbons, shipping containers, and essential consumer goods, alongside passenger services. This diversified capacity is expected to boost cross-border trade and regional economic integration.

To ensure seamless operations, Kinshasa and Luanda are also committed to harmonizing their respective railway operations, standardizing tariffs, and streamlining customs procedures, fostering greater efficiency along the route.

With an estimated cost of 1.2 billion, the railway project will be complemented by the development of new cross-border roads, modern logistics platforms, and essential energy infrastructure. Both nations are also focused on revitalizing their cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector and accelerating electrical interconnection, particularly to bolster power supply to the resource-rich Katanga region.