A Strategic Inauguration
On 12 June 2025, a milestone was reached in Lualaba’s infrastructure development. President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo officially opened the new international terminal of Kolwezi Airport. Modern, spacious and fully compliant with ICAO standards, the facility now stands as a strategic asset in the heart of the “copper-and-cobalt triangle.”
Covering almost 10,000 m², the airport features two wings (domestic and international), boarding satellites, a control tower, a fire-and-rescue station, and a VIP lounge offering service quality on par with leading regional capitals.
A Lever for the Mining Economy
Lualaba is a global epicentre for copper and cobalt two critical metals for the energy transition. Until now, limited air connectivity hampered the logistics efficiency of major mining companies and deterred potential investors.
Thanks to the new airport, companies can now:
Rapidly ship spare parts, technical equipment and specialised staff.
Welcome partners, engineers and financiers in far better conditions.
Save time and enhance security on regional (Zambia, South Africa, europe) and intercontinental flights.
A New Regional Hub
Beyond mining, the airport is a vector of regional integration. Close to the Zambian border, Kolwezi can now compete with platforms such as Ndola and Lusaka. Direct links to Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa and even Dubai are expected in the medium term, unlocking new trade and diplomatic corridors.
Improved air access also strengthens Lualaba’s appeal for regional events mining expos, investment forums and economic missions.
And Why Not Tourism?
Lualaba’s business-and-industrial tourism prospects can finally take off. With headline sites like Tenke Fungurume, Kamoa-Kakula, and the landscapes of the Kundelungu Plateau, the province has assets to showcase. Local agencies and hotel groups could soon market technical visits and eco-tour packages.
What Next?
To turn the airport into a living development tool rather than a simple showcase, several complementary measures are essential:
Rehabilitate urban and trunk roads around Kolwezi for efficient airport access.
Connect the facility to dry ports and logistics corridors (Lobito, Kasumbalesa).
Launch an attractiveness plan to convince airlines to schedule regular flights.
Kolwezi International Airport now has the potential to anchor Lualaba more firmly on the global map—provided the supporting infrastructure and policies keep pace.
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