The EU-Zambia Lobito Corridor Business Forum successfully fostered partnerships and attracted significant investment, with the EU mobilizing over €2 billion through its Global Gateway initiative for various projects. Key outcomes include a €200 million agreement between the EU and Zambia for development projects and a €5 million investment in rural renewable energy through World Vision Zambia. The forum focused on unlocking Zambia's potential in the Lobito Corridor, particularly in critical raw minerals, energy, and agriculture, and featured intense business-to-business matchmaking sessions. 

Investment and funding

• €2 billion+ mobilized: The EU's Global Gateway initiative secured over €2 billion for projects connected to the Lobito Corridor, with a focus on sustainable development.

• €200 million agreement: A new agreement was signed to provide €200 million for key development projects in Zambia, aligning with the country's Eighth National Development Plan.

• €5 million renewable energy investment: World Vision Zambia secured €5 million to expand access to renewable energy for households and social services in rural communities, improving healthcare, education, and livelihoods. 

Sector focus and opportunities

• Critical raw minerals: Discussions centered on developing value chains for critical raw minerals and increasing local processing to create jobs.

• Energy: The forum highlighted opportunities in both traditional and renewable energy sectors, including investment in coal for electricity generation and clean energy solutions for rural areas.

• Agriculture: Agriculture was identified as a key growth sector for the corridor, and sessions were held to support its development. 

Partnership and infrastructure

• Partnership growth: The forum facilitated strong partnerships between Zambian and European leaders from government, business, and finance, with over 1000 participants in total.

• Corridor development: The Lobito Corridor project was reaffirmed as a crucial infrastructure project to connect Zambia to the Atlantic, reduce freight times, and boost trade. 

Environmental and social focus

• Sustainable approach: The forum emphasized a sustainable and human-centered approach to development, with dedicated sessions on environmental and social impact assessments, urban growth, and ESG best practices.

• Geological data: Geological expertise was highlighted as a crucial component, with discussions on utilizing digital geological data to support resource development.