As things stand, China is the main foreign player in Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining sector, which exports minerals considered critical for batteries and other industrial components key to transitioning away from fossil fuels.

The United States has provided a $550 million loan to support the Lobito venture, which involves refurbishing an existing railway through Angola and extending it into Congo’s mining heartland as part of the first phase.

No date has been given for its completion yet, while a second phase that would link Lobito to Zambia via a new railway line is still at the preparation stage, with an aim to break ground in 2026 according to Washington. The presidents of Angola, Congo and Zambia and the vice president of Tanzania joined Biden for a summit in Lobito on the last day of his first and only trip to Africa as president.

Biden and Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi affirmed their commitment to promoting investment and peace to allow the central African nation to make the most of its vast mineral wealth, according to a note from the White House issued after the two met.

Biden and Zambian counterpart Hakainde Hichilema also met to discuss the Zambian component of the Lobito project and other issues.

“This corridor is of vital importance to opening up our countries, to opening up our regions, the continent, and truly the global economy,” Hichilema said. “This project is a huge opportunity for investment, for trade.”

“The presidents underscored their conviction,” a White House statement said, “that countries should not be held back from investing in their development by the need to service unsustainably high debt, and together committed to continue advocating for reform.”

In June, Zambia’s international bondholders voted through their part of a $13.4 billion debt restructuring deal, making Zambia the first to complete a full-blown rework under the G20-led “Common Framework” architecture.

THE CHINA FACTOR

The Lobito Atlantic Railway concession, awarded in 2022 to a consortium of Western companies, has been presented as a win against China, as Washington is increasingly concerned about the Chinese grip on critical minerals, including Congo’s vast reserves of copper and cobalt.

The second phase of the project envisions extending the Lobito corridor railway through Zambia and connecting it to Tanzania’s Indian Ocean port of Dar es Salaam.

The U.S. has funded feasibility studies for the second phase, but critics say it could offer China a rival route eastwards, undermining the entire project from Washington’s perspective.

After Donald Trump is sworn in as U.S. president in January, Washington is expected to take a harsher line with China and some officials have questioned whether U.S. support for the eastern route will continue.

Trump will likely back at least parts of the Lobito project and remain a close partner to Angola when he returns to the White House, according to two officials who served under the previous 2017-21 Trump administration.

The details relating to the funding and construction of the second phase of the project are still in question.

The Lobito project is backed by global commodities trader Trafigura, Portuguese construction group Mota-Engil (MOTA.LS) and railway operator Vecturis. There is no date yet for its completion.

A senior U.S. official said on Tuesday that the Lobito project could be completed by the end of the decade, without providing further details.

The U.S. Development Finance Corporation has provided the $550 million loan to refurbish the 1,300-km (800-mile) rail network from Lobito to Congo.

U.S. officials announced fresh financing for the first phase of the venture this week through the Development Finance Corporation worth $600 million for projects including solar, minerals and telecommunications.

Biden pledged lasting U.S. engagement with Africa on the continent’s own terms as he met with his Angolan counterpart Joao Lourenco in Luanda on Tuesday. Biden’s trip delivered on a promise to visit Africa, but came only weeks before his presidency ends.

Despite his repeated pledges to be “all in on Africa”, U.S. influence in Africa has declined during his term in office. Washington has lost a military base in the Sahel region and made little progress breaking China’s commercial domination in minerals seen as critical to national security.

Angola has long nurtured close ties with China and Russia but has recently moved closer to the West. It aims to expand its collaboration with the United States on security and military initiatives, Lourenco said during Biden’s visit on Tuesday.

By Agencies

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FULL-TIME!

The Super Eagles snatch a crucial 1-0 victory, thanks to Lookman's first half goal! #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 | #NGRANG pic.twitter.com/IBUNQIFByr

— CAF (@CAF_Online) February 2, 2024

Lookman, 26, capitalized on Simon’s exceptional play down the left flank, skillfully evading defender Kialonda Gaspar to create an opportunity. Simon then set up Lookman for the crucial goal, marking his third in the tournament. The 41st-minute strike at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium secured Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals, where they are set to face either the Cape Verde Islands or South Africa on Wednesday.

𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐃!

The Super Eagles put their feet into the semi-finals! #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/2RPTpHSmJC

— CAF (@CAF_Online) February 2, 2024

The upcoming semi-final promises to be a fierce encounter as Nigeria looks to advance further in the Africa Cup of Nations. The quarter-final clash between the Cape Verde Islands and South Africa, scheduled for Saturday, will determine Nigeria’s opponent in the semi-finals.

Also Read: Algeria Parts Ways with Coach Belmadi After Disappointing AFCON Exit

Meanwhile, fans can anticipate another exciting quarter-final matchup later on Friday in Abidjan, where the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea will battle for a spot in the semi-finals. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this thrilling African football tournament.

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The Super Eagles, known for their solid defensive strategy and quick transitions into attack, aim to maintain their successful formula against Angola. Peseiro emphasizes the importance of consistency and maintaining their style of play, acknowledging the challenge posed by Angola’s goal-scoring prowess.

While Nigeria stands as the highest-ranked team remaining and a title favorite, midfielder Alex Iwobi highlights the tournament’s unpredictability, urging the team to remain focused on their own performance rather than external expectations. The history between Nigeria and Angola adds an extra layer of significance to the match, with the Super Eagles seeking to avenge past defeats and pay tribute to the late Samuel Okwaraji.

Also Read: Ivory Coast Stuns Defending Champs Senegal in AFCON Shootout Drama

Iwobi recognizes Angola’s achievements in reaching this stage and acknowledges the need for defensive solidarity against a team known for its creativity and goal-scoring ability. Despite the anticipated challenges, he expresses confidence in the team’s ability to withstand pressure and secure a victory.

As Nigeria faces Angola in the quarterfinals, the stage is set for a highly competitive match, with both teams aiming to advance in the tournament. Stay tuned for updates on the final lineup decisions and key moments in this crucial Africa Cup of Nations encounter.

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FULL-TIME!

Gelson Dala & Mabululu star again as Angola beat Namibia with 3 goals to none. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 | #ANGNAM pic.twitter.com/RUonPO2idt

— CAF (@CAF_Online) January 27, 2024

The game kicked off unfavorably for Angola as goalkeeper Neblú received a straight red card for handling the ball outside the penalty area after a chip attempt by Namibia’s forward Bethuel Muzeu. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Angola displayed resilience in their attacking play, quickly equalizing with a well-executed move finished by Gelson Dala.

Namibia, trailing 1-0, faced an uphill battle that became steeper when Lubeni Pombili Haukongo received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card. Pedro Gonçalves’ side capitalized on the free kick awarded for Haukongo’s offense, extending their lead as Dala secured his second goal of the match with a header in the 18-yard box.

The second half saw a more composed gameplay as Angola aimed to protect their lead, leading to a reduction in the game’s intensity. Despite adopting a more defensive approach, Angola remained a threat on the counter-attack, exemplified by their third goal. Breaking through Namibia’s stretched defense, Mabululu curled in a stylish right-footed shot midway through the second half, securing the victory for Angola.

Also Read: AFCON 2024 Round of 16 Predictions: Exciting Matchups Await as Heavyweights Collide

This remarkable achievement for Angola marks their first quarter-final appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010, and Pedro Gonçalves is determined to surpass their previous performance. On the other hand, Namibia’s inaugural AFCON knockout fixture concludes in disappointment, with the early red card to goalkeeper Neblú identified as a missed opportunity for the Brave Warriors.

The post Angola Secures Quarter-Final Berth in Africa Cup of Nations, Defeating Namibia in Dramatic Clash appeared first on KahawaTungu.

FULL-TIME!

Entertainment levels off the charts as Angola beat Mauritania with 3 goals to 2. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 | #MTNANG pic.twitter.com/JLFSRjhy0c

— CAF (@CAF_Online) January 20, 2024

In the early stages, Angola dominated the attacking exchanges, with Mabululu’s fierce strike requiring two saves from Mauritania’s goalkeeper, Babacar Niasse. On the other hand, Mauritania’s Pape Ibnou Ba missed a chance to score when he headed a well-worked corner over the crossbar.

The game’s intensity peaked around the half-hour mark. Just a minute after Ba’s one-on-one attempt was thwarted, Gelson Dala showcased brilliance with a scissor-kick finish, breaking the deadlock for Angola. However, Mauritania responded before halftime, as Sidi Bouna Amar mirrored Lionel Messi’s finesse, dribbling through defenders and unleashing an unstoppable shot into the net.

Also Read: Late Bounedjah Header Secures Algeria a Draw Against Burkina Faso in AFCON Thriller

Angola, determined to reclaim the lead, delivered a decisive three-minute spell after the restart. Gelson Dala found the net once again with a clever strike, aided by the post, and Gilberto extended the lead with a clinical finish after dispossessing HT substitute Khadim Diaw.

The match continued its dramatic turn as Aboubakary Koita’s stunning long-range strike brought Mauritania back into contention, making it 3-2 in a span of 13 second-half minutes. Despite the potential for chaos, both teams managed only one additional shot on target.

This victory propels Angola to the top of Group D, displacing Burkina Faso. To secure a spot in the knockout stages for the first time since 2010, Angola aims for victory against Hubert Velud’s side in the final group game. Conversely, the defeat puts Mauritania on the brink of elimination, needing a victory to avoid finishing last. They face Group D’s top seeds, Algeria, in their upcoming Tuesday clash.

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The deals signed Saturday touched on wildlife management and conservation, shipping and maritime cooperation, youth development, forestry cooperation and bilateral cooperation in the agricultural sector.

“Other MOUs are on telecommunications and ICT, oil and gas, mining and geology, health collaboration, capacity building of the public service and cooperation of our respective diplomatic academies. These frameworks will unlock the potential of our commercial and trade relations,” said Dr Ruto.

Further, Kenya waived Visa requirements for all Angolans so as to boost trade.

“We have also directed our respective ministers responsible for Transport to expedite and conclude discussions on the resumption of direct flights between Kenya and Angola,” added Dr Ruto.

The two countries also agreed to promote peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.

“President Lourenço and I acknowledge the active role played by our countries in addressing the conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo through the Luanda Roadmap and the EAC-led Nairobi Process,” said Ruto.

“Angola and Kenya are concerned over the proliferation of conflicts in Africa and beyond. We call for urgent reforms of the United Nations, especially the Security Council, to make it more representative, accountable, effective and responsive to the world’s geographical realities.”

As for African Union chairmanship, Ruto said Kenya will back Angola’s bid based on the country’s endorsement by Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“On climate change, we acknowledged that Kenya and Angola have suffered severe effects of this existential phenomenon,” he said.

“We affirmed the resolutions that were reached at the Africa Climate Summit last month and agreed to work together under the framework of the African Union and the United Nations, ahead of COP28 in Dubai beginning next month, to ensure that Africa makes its full contribution on this very crucial issue.”

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The Morans went down 92-54 in their opening Group B game of the qualifiers taking place in Kigali, Rwanda on Wednesday.

In the first quarter, the gallant Morans managed to force a 19-19 draw, but they lost their guard in the subsequent sets.

Read: Kenya Morans Set To Open Afrobasket 2021 Qualifiers Against Senegal

Senegal took the second quarter 47-33 and third quarter 58-52.

Twenty teams grouped in five groups are taking part in the qualifiers with three top teams per group making the finals next year in Rwanda.

Email your news TIPS to Editor@kahawatungu.com or WhatsApp +254707482874. You can also find us on Telegram through www.t.me/kahawatungu

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The government through the line ministry will support Gor Mahia’s trip to Luanda – Angola next week for their Caf Confederation Cup outing against Petro Atletico.

The club’s president Ambrose Rachier had sent a distress call, indicating that they were financially squeezed and needed assistance to make the trip and the government has provided them with air tickets.

“It’s with great pleasure today as a club to receive government’s support – securing air tickets for the team to travel to Angola on 11th February 2019 to play a CAF group stage match against Atletico Petroleos,” Sally Bolo, the club’s treasurer stated.

“We look forward to even more support from the government as we continue to represent the country in such continental assignments.”

According to Kahawa Tungu sources, K’Ogalo needed around Ksh3 million to facilitate the whole trip.

Read: FIFA Boss Gianni Infantino Set For Second Term Unopposed After Would Be Challenger Failed Nomination Test

The team begun their Group D matches with a resounding 4-2 win over Zamalek SC of Egypt at the Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

A result against Atletico on Wednesday next week will put them in a good position to make it to the knockout phase of the tournament.

Do you know of a sensitive story you would like us to get our hands on? Email your news TIPS to Editor@kahawatungu.com  or WhatsApp +254707482874. 

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Five fans lost their lives in a stampede while leaving 11^th November Stadium, Luanda, Angola after a Caf Champions League quarterfinals match between Desportivo 1 de Agosto and TP Mazembe.

Fans filled the 50k sitter capacity facility to the brim for the highly anticipated match and some could be seen hanging dangerously around the inner barrier separating the pitch and the stands.

According to Timoteo Antonio, a journalist in Luanda, who spoke to Kahawa Tungu, the unfortunate incident happened as fans rushed to exit the stadium using one channel after the game that ended in a barren draw.

“It was after the match, people wanted to leave the stadium at the same time using a small exit gate, some fell and were stepped on leading deaths,” Timoteo explained.

Security of fans during Caf matches has come under sharp scrutiny in the past few weeks with officials in charge being accused of allowing excess fans into the stadium hence compromising security.

Read: The Sorry State Of Newly Renovated Kasarani Stadium (Photos)

In Madagascar, two fans died in a crowded stadium during the Afcon 2019 qualifiers match between the hosts and Senegal two weeks ago.

The Gambia versus Algeria qualifier was allowed to proceed despite glaring security threats with fans dangerously hanging around a crowded stadium.

Caf is yet to issue a statement regarding the above three incidences or even mourn the departed.

Do you have a story you want told? Do you know of a sensitive story you would like us to get our hands on? Email your news TIPS to Editor@kahawatungu.com

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