World Bank managing director, Bjerde, arrives Angola for Lobito Corridor coordination meeting

World Bank Managing Director of Operations, Anna Bjerde, is in Angola representing the World Bank Group at the inaugural Lobito Corridor Coordination Meeting, which brings together ministers of finance, transport, and trade and commerce from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. The meeting marks a significant step in advancing regional cooperation around the Lobito Corridor, a strategic trade and transport route linking southern and central Africa to global markets. In a statement issued Wednesday, the World Bank said discussions would focus on aligning policies, coordinating investments, and mobilizing public and private partners to accelerate economic growth, job creation, and cross-border trade.

During her visit, Bjerde will reaffirm the World Bank Group’s long-term commitment to supporting sustainable development in Angola, the DRC, and Zambia. She is expected to underscore the importance of strong government leadership and coordinated action in translating the corridor’s potential into tangible development results. Bjerde’s engagements will highlight how a unified World Bank Group approach can support economic diversification, attract private investment, and deliver inclusive benefits for communities along the corridor.

“Additional discussions will cover key regional priorities, including expanding access to energy through Mission 300, strengthening agriculture and agribusiness value chains with AgriConnect, and increasing digital access and connectivity,” the statement said. While in the capital Luanda, Bjerde will also meet Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to discuss World Bank Group engagement and shared regional priorities. As of January 2026, the World Bank’s portfolio in Angola stands at approximately US$4.9 billion, including US$4.78 billion across 18 national projects and US$150 million committed to one regional operation. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.