The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Angola have officially inked a significant concession agreement for the Dilolo-Sakania railway line. This landmark deal encompasses the comprehensive rehabilitation, modern enhancement, strategic extension, and operational management of the critical rail link connecting Dilolo in Lualaba province to Sakania in Haut-Katanga, spanning a period of three decades.

Under the terms of this agreement, the Congolese state will maintain full ownership of the railway infrastructure. Furthermore, the DRC will retain at least a 10% equity stake in the project company established for this endeavor. Upon the conclusion of the thirty-year concession period, all infrastructure assets are contractually mandated to revert fully to the ownership of the Congolese state.

Crucially, the concessionaire will bear sole responsibility for all financing requirements and assume all risks associated with traffic volumes, without any sovereign guarantees or operational subsidies from the DRC. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has underscored the anticipated national economic benefits, emphasizing job creation, specialized training opportunities for youth, the engagement of local enterprises, and significant technology transfer to the region.

This vital corridor is designed to facilitate the efficient transportation of a wide array of goods, including minerals, agricultural commodities, industrial inputs, hydrocarbons, containerized freight, consumer products, and passenger services, significantly boosting regional trade and connectivity.

Looking ahead, both Kinshasa and Luanda are committed to streamlining their respective railway operations, standardizing tariffs, and harmonizing customs procedures to ensure seamless cross-border logistics.

The project, with an estimated investment of 1.2 billion, will be complemented by the development of essential cross-border road networks, modern logistical platforms, and upgraded energy infrastructure. Beyond rail, the two nations are also keen to revitalize their cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector and accelerate electrical interconnection initiatives, particularly to secure energy supply for the resource-rich Katanga region.