The inauguration of Liberia’s first world-class iron ore concentrator plant in Tokadeh, Nimba County, on June 5, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s industrial development and underscored the deepening partnership between ArcelorMittal Liberia and the Liberian government. Presided over by President Joseph Nyumah Boakai and ArcelorMittal Executive Chairman Lakshmi Mittal, the ceremony symbolized not only a technological leap forward but also a significant stride towards economic diversification and sustainable growth for Liberia. President Boakai hailed the project as a testament to Liberia’s potential and a beacon of hope for its future, emphasizing the importance of stability and collaboration to ensure the benefits of the investment reach the Liberian people. The commissioning of the concentrator, a cornerstone of ArcelorMittal’s Phase II expansion, signifies Liberia’s entry into the realm of value-added mineral processing, enhancing its position in the global mining landscape.
ArcelorMittal’s commitment to Liberia, exceeding US$3 billion, represents the largest foreign direct investment in the country’s history. The Phase II expansion, anchored by the new concentrator, is poised to quadruple iron ore production from 5 million to 20 million tonnes annually. This ambitious undertaking is projected to create over 5,000 construction jobs and 1,200 permanent positions, significantly impacting Liberia’s employment landscape, which currently grapples with one of the highest jobless rates globally. Furthermore, the project is expected to boost government revenue from ArcelorMittal, increasing annual payments from $35 million to $125 million, providing a vital injection of funds for national development initiatives.
The concentrator plant itself represents a cutting-edge technological advancement, enabling the production of high-grade iron ore concentrate domestically for the first time. This move adds significant value to Liberia’s iron ore exports and strengthens the country’s competitive edge in the international market. The inauguration ceremony included a symbolic ribbon-cutting by President Boakai and a demonstration of the concentrator’s capabilities, showcasing the tangible progress achieved through the collaboration between ArcelorMittal and the Liberian government. The event was attended by a diverse audience, including government officials, diplomats, local leaders, and ArcelorMittal staff, highlighting the broad support for the project.
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the Phase II expansion encompasses a comprehensive upgrade of Liberia’s 243-kilometer heavy-haul railway connecting Yekepa to the Port of Buchanan. This $800 million investment will bring the railway up to U.S. standards, facilitating increased iron ore transport and improving overall connectivity and trade along the corridor. The upgraded railway will not only support the expanded iron ore operations but also contribute to the development of surrounding communities and boost economic activity in the region. This integrated approach to infrastructure development demonstrates ArcelorMittal’s long-term commitment to Liberia’s sustainable growth.
ArcelorMittal’s investment in Liberia extends beyond physical infrastructure to encompass human capital development. Recognizing the importance of empowering local talent, the company has invested in educational initiatives, rehabilitated schools, and established the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy, which provides internationally accredited, tuition-free training. The recent employment of 236 young Liberians at the concentrator, including graduates of the Training Academy, exemplifies ArcelorMittal’s dedication to nurturing a skilled workforce and providing opportunities for local communities. This commitment to education and training underscores the company’s recognition that sustainable development requires investment in both physical infrastructure and human resources.
Since commencing operations in Liberia in 2005, ArcelorMittal has emerged as a critical partner in the country’s post-conflict recovery and development journey. The company’s consistent tax contributions, infrastructure projects, and community engagement initiatives have solidified its role as a major driver of economic growth and social progress. The inauguration of the concentrator plant represents a culmination of years of collaborative effort and a shared vision for Liberia’s future. It embodies the potential for transformative partnerships between the public and private sectors to drive sustainable development and create lasting positive impacts on communities and nations. The project signifies not only a step forward for Liberia’s mining industry but also a symbol of hope and progress for the nation as a whole.
