Five Congolese Cities Selected for Strategic MSME Study Linked to Lobito Corridor
Target SARL Begins Comprehensive SME Ecosystem Study Across Key Cities in the Lobito Corridor
A major study aimed at strengthening the business environment for small and medium-sized enterprises along the rapidly developing Lobito Corridor has been launched in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as stakeholders seek to maximize the economic opportunities created by one of Africa’s most important infrastructure and trade routes.
Research and consulting firm Target SARL, represented by Project Manager Saleh Sikofu, officially launched the prospective study in Lubumbashi on October 15, 2026.
The initiative will focus on understanding and mapping the entrepreneurial ecosystem across five strategic cities in the provinces of Haut-Katanga and Lualaba: Lubumbashi, Likasi, Kipushi, Kolwezi and Tenke.
The study seeks to provide a comprehensive assessment of the region’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with the goal of identifying growth opportunities, investment needs and the support mechanisms required to strengthen local businesses.
According to Target SARL, the research will examine several key areas, including the mapping of public and private sector stakeholders, the maturity of local entrepreneurial ecosystems, the types of businesses operating within the target cities and the role of development projects supported by technical and financial partners.
The initiative is expected to generate valuable insights into how local enterprises can better position themselves to benefit from the expanding economic activity associated with the Lobito Corridor, which is emerging as a critical trade and logistics gateway connecting the mineral-rich regions of the DRC and Zambia to international markets through Angola’s Port of Lobito.
Focus on High-Growth Sectors
The study will concentrate on sectors considered to have strong potential for economic diversification and value creation.
These include light manufacturing, agro-processing, value-added services, green economy activities, light industry, tourism, hospitality, beauty and wellness services, as well as digital technologies and innovation-driven enterprises.
Notably, retail trade and extractive industries, including mining activities, have been excluded from the research scope in order to focus on sectors with significant potential for enterprise development, job creation and economic diversification.
Mapping the Entrepreneurial Landscape
To build an accurate database of businesses operating within the corridor, the study will combine several data collection methods.
These include gathering information from public and private institutions, online business registration surveys and field-based research conducted in communities across the target cities.
Organizations expected to contribute information include business registration agencies, tax authorities, entrepreneurship development institutions, business associations, incubators and chambers of commerce.
Following the initial business census, researchers will select a representative sample of enterprises for more detailed analysis.
Business owners will be surveyed on topics such as market access, financing needs, business support requirements, growth challenges and opportunities for diversification.
Interviews and focus group discussions with key ecosystem stakeholders will also be conducted.
Supporting Future Investment and Policy Decisions
One of the key expected outcomes of the study is the creation of a detailed map of the MSME ecosystem across the Lobito Corridor.
Researchers also aim to develop strategic and operational recommendations that can help guide policymakers, development agencies, financial institutions and business support organizations.
As investment in transport, logistics and industrial infrastructure along the Lobito Corridor accelerates, the study is expected to provide critical insights into how local businesses can participate more effectively in emerging regional value chains and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
