THE BENEFITS OF THE LOBITO CORRIDOR AND THE PIDIC IN THE LIFE OF CATUMBELA RESIDENTS

Abstract

This article discusses the benefits of the Lobito corridor for the residents of Catumbela. The research methodology is descriptive and exploratory, employing qualitative and quantitative approaches. The investigation reveals the real benefits of the Lobito corridor and the Catumbela Industrial Development Hub (PIDIC) for the residents of Catumbela, given that the Benguela railway cuts through the municipality and PIDIC plays a significant role in local development. The implementation of the Lobito corridor is of extreme importance to Angola's geoeconomy, bringing advantages to companies in terms of exporting and importing goods, and is also extremely important for the residents affected by the corridor's connections to the projects being implemented, fostering satisfaction with job opportunities and financing projects. Based on the interviews conducted, the residents of Catumbela are calling for greater investment in sustainable projects that benefit the locality, increase employment opportunities, and steer young people away from crime. They also urge the PIDIC (Program for the Development of the Industrial and Cultural Infrastructure) to create more projects and job opportunities for residents. Since the Lobito Corridor extends into the municipality of Catumbela, residents are calling for greater involvement from the PIDIC and for other companies to invest heavily in commerce, because Catumbela is a municipality with good commercial practices.