Former LIA chairman backs Libya’s African trade ambitions

Libya’s Africa Investment Portfolio (LAIP) has announced plans to develop two strategic highways linking North Africa with sub-Saharan nations, marking a significant step in the country’s infrastructure development.

The ambitious initiative envisions two major transport corridors: a western route connecting Misurata to Agadez in Nigeria via Tamanhint, and an eastern route linking Benghazi to the Sudanese border through Kufra. These projects form part of the government’s strategy to establish Libya as a crucial gateway between North and sub-Saharan Africa.

The development follows Cabinet Resolution No. 535 of 2024, which authorises LAIP to engage international firms for comprehensive feasibility studies. The projects are expected to proceed either through build-operate-transfer arrangements or strategic partnerships with specialist companies.

Last Tuesday, key stakeholders gathered at the Ministry of Transport to outline implementation strategies. The high-level meeting brought together Transport Minister Mohamed Al-Shahoubi, LAIP Board Chairman Mustafa Abu Fanas, Board Member Khalifa Al-Shaibani, and Strategic Planning Director Radwan Al-Nafati, alongside representatives from the Land Transport Authority.

AbdulMagid Breish, former chairman of the Libyan Investment Authority, endorsed the initiative in comments to Ean Libya news outlet. “This represents strategic infrastructure development to strengthen Libya’s role in connecting African nations,” said Breish, who had proposed similar concepts during his tenure.

He emphasised that successful implementation would require complementary development of ports and airports to create an integrated transport network.

Technical committees will begin work next Thursday to determine optimal routes, assess technical and financial viability, and explore integration possibilities with existing railway networks. The comprehensive approach aims to ensure the projects’ long-term sustainability and economic impact.

LAIP, established in 2006, operates as Libya’s international investment vehicle. Current chairman Abu Fanas, appointed by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dabaiba, leads the institution’s efforts to strengthen Libya’s role in African development through strategic infrastructure investments.

The projects aim to enhance regional trade connectivity, generate employment opportunities, and establish Libya as a vital trade hub between Africa and Europe.

Ministry of Transport officials emphasise that these developments could significantly improve the nation’s transport infrastructure while boosting economic growth through increased trade flows.