Angola and DRC: Closer ties

Economic Agreements Align With Lourenço’s Interest in Close DRC Ties

President João Lourenço of Angola’s strategy to strengthen bilateral ties with the DRC, primarily through shared infrastructure and energy projects is a key objective but one that is also beneficial to DRC:

What happened: President João Lourenço travelled to Kinshasa, where he and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi witnessed the signing of a $1.26bn concession for the Congolese section of the Lobito Corridor and discussed joint offshore oil development, Angolan fuel supplies and electricity exports to the DRC.

Why it matters: Lourenço’s presence demonstrated how much relations with Tshisekedi matter beyond the Lobito Corridor, including for the security of Angola’s offshore petroleum interests.

What happens next: Angola and the DRC will seek to move Block 14/23 from contractual agreement towards exploration and finalize the proposed Sonangol fuel supply deal, while financing constraints will slow the railway and electricity projects.

These initiatives are designed to foster close cooperation with President Félix Tshisekedi, helping Angola manage national security risks, such as potential threats from Cabindan separatists.

While these projects carry significant political weight, they face practical hurdles, including the need for confirmed investment, logistical challenges, and the potential impact of political succession in either country.

For international companies, this cooperation reduces the risk that maritime disputes will disrupt existing rights. However, the document notes that high-level political backing does not guarantee immediate commercial or operational progress, as exploration and development timetables remain unclear.