US Extractivism Returns to Africa via Lobito Corridor Amidst Geopolitical Tensions
The Lobito Corridor signifies a renewed American extractivist approach in Africa, challenging Chinese dominance in the Copperbelt. Initiated under Biden, the project includes the Lobito Atlantic Railway, financed largely by Europeans, with a 30-50 year concession granted to a consortium involving Mota-Engil, Vecturis, and Trafigura. The U.S. aims to secure critical minerals from the DRC while implementing sanctions against Rwandan generals. A significant agreement between the U.S. and Congo aims to enhance mining operations, emphasizing the strategic importance of the corridor against Chinese interests.
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The Lobito Corridor represents a strategic return of American extractivism in Africa, aiming to counter Chinese control in the Copperbelt. The initiative, driven by President Biden, focuses on the Lobito Atlantic Railway, which has received substantial European funding and is managed by a consortium including Mota-Engil, Vecturis, and Trafigura.
The U.S. is pushing for increased access to mineral resources in the DRC, with a $553 million loan for corridor infrastructure reflecting a shift towards securing supply chains. Recent drone strikes against M23 rebels underscore the rising geopolitical tensions, while Trump’s administration seeks to consolidate American influence in the region through partnerships and sanctions, particularly targeting Rwandan military leaders. An agreement with Glencore aims to boost copper production, further entrenching U.S. interests in the critical minerals sector.
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