Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s signature project in Africa was an 800-mile rail corridor that aimed to counter Chinese influence and reshape America’s engagement with the continent. The future of America’s involvement in the project was uncertain when President Trump came into office and dismantled American aid to Africa. However, James Story, the acting U.S. ambassador in Angola, recently gave the first indication that the Trump administration supports the project, which is expected to improve America’s access to minerals like cobalt and copper. The railway was initially completed in 1931 and China funded its rehabilitation over a decade ago. The Biden administration committed approximately $4 billion to various projects along the corridor, including refurbishing the rail line and developing mining and agricultural projects. Mr. Biden pitched the corridor as a new approach to engaging with Africa, focusing more on commercial partnerships rather than aid and extracting natural resources. It is unclear if the Trump administration will also focus on the broader economic benefits of the rail line or solely on increasing American access to minerals. The project’s ambitions have already been affected by some of Mr. Trump’s policies, however there are indications that the Trump administration might be looking for business investments in Africa.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/02/world/africa/trump-angola-lobito-corridor.html