Ottoniel Manuel, Director of Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) - «The business activities conducted by LAR have a significant impact on the growth of trade, the mining industry and the regional economy in Angola […]»

At a time in which Africa is stepping up its role in global value chains, the Lobito Corridor is establishing itself as one of the continent’s most strategic infrastructure projects – and the Lobito Atlantic Railway is at the heart of this transformation. Spearheading this operation is Ottoniel Manuel, LAR’s director, who shares how railway modernisation, regional integration and the transport of critical minerals are reshaping the logistics corridor between Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and international markets, paving the way for a new cycle of sustainable economic growth.

Today, what is the strategic role of the Lobito Atlantic Railway in the development of the Lobito Corridor and in connecting Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and international markets?
The strategic role of the Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) in the development of the Lobito Corridor and in connecting Angola to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and international markets hinges on transporting goods between Angola, the DRC and Zambia, with a view to fostering regional economic integration and intra-African trade. This contributes to the economic development of the Lobito Corridor, stimulating the development of sectors such as agriculture, mining and tourism, and thereby contributing not only to Angola’s economic diversification but also to transforming the railway line into a modern infrastructure. Its expansion to increase freight capacity and operational efficiency and ensure international connectivity through the Port of Lobito offers an alternative route to the ports on the Indian Ocean, reducing transit times and logistical costs for exports from the DRC and Zambia. We are now implementing responsible practices, including emissions reduction and infrastructure renovation, while promoting sustainable development. With major investments, LAR is consolidating its role as a strategic hub for the economic integration of Southern and Central Africa.

What impact is LAR’s activity having on the growth of trade, the mining industry and the regional economy?
Activities carried out by Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) have a significant impact on the growth of trade, the mining industry and the regional economy in Angola and neighbouring countries, insofar as they have been instrumental in facilitating the transport of goods between Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which in turn promotes regional and international trade, thereby helping to increase exports and imports and boosting the local economy. In the mining sector, this is essential for its development, particularly regarding the transport of critical minerals, such as copper, cobalt and manganese, helping to increase the production and export of these resources and contributing to the economic growth of the region. When it comes to the regional economy, LAR is creating jobs and stimulating local economic growth, benefiting communities located along the railway line. Additionally, the modernisation of the railway infrastructure attracts investment and helps promote sustainable development. 

«With major investments, LAR is consolidating its role as a strategic hub for the economic integration of Southern and Central Africa.»

What are LAR’s main priorities at the moment to improve the capacity and efficiency of rail transport?
Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) has a list of priorities which, essentially, involve improving transport capacity and efficiency, which includes: the renovation of the railway line and the acquisition of new rolling stock, with the aim of increasing the efficiency of freight transport; the expansion of transport capacity, such as the acquisition of 500 new flat wagons, to boost operational capacity and meet growing demand. Beyond this, we plan to improve logistics flows by rolling out competitive return freight rates for customers handling both import and export traffic, thereby contributing to logistics optimisation and reducing costs;a focus on responsible and sustainable practices, striving to reduce environmental impact and foster regional economic development; and strengthening ties between Angola and the DRC, encouraging regional and international trade by improving transit times. It should be noted that, in addition to these priorities, there are others that aim to position LAR and the Lobito Corridor as a strategic logistical corridor for Southern and Central Africa.

«Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) has a list of priorities  [...] that aim to position LAR and the Lobito Corridor as a strategic logistical corridor for Southern and Central Africa.»

Are there any investments and projects planned for the coming years with regard to modernising the line and expanding operations?
Projects and investments planned by Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) for the coming years include: modernising the railway line; improvements to transport efficiency and capacity; installing a modern signalling and telecommunications system by means of an Operations Control Centre (OCC); and building and extending sidings to 900m, thereby enabling long trains to pass each other. These projects aim to improve transport infrastructure in Angola, while promoting economic development and increasing regional connectivity and freight volumes.

What do you think will be LAR’s greatest contribution to Angola’s development?
The creation of skilled jobs, the education of young Angolan human capital, and the adoption of sound practices. It will also contribute to the development of a modern railway sub-sector and the development of new and small businesses associated with transport and logistics. 

Text: Editorial Team
Photos: Rights Reserved