ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), a prominent steel and mining company, has embarked on a community development initiative focused on empowering local farmers in Liagbala Town, Nimba County. The project, spearheaded by AML CEO Michiel Van Der Merwe, involves the donation of essential agricultural tools and supplies, aiming to bolster vegetable farming and strengthen local food production. This endeavor signifies AML’s broader commitment to fostering sustainable livelihoods and economic self-reliance within its host communities. The strategic location of Liagbala, situated near a road that AML plans to upgrade further, presents a unique opportunity for the community to access readily available markets, including thousands of AML workers and contractors.
Van Der Merwe’s vision underscores the importance of local food production, reducing dependence on imported food and ensuring that economic benefits circulate within Liberian communities. He emphasized the consistent demand for food, creating a stable market for local farmers. The CEO challenged the community to capitalize on this “golden opportunity” to become primary food producers, envisioning Liagbala as a potential exporter of agricultural products in the future. This emphasis on self-reliance, coupled with AML’s support, aims to transform Liagbala into a model of a thriving, empowered community. The CEO’s message resonates with the idea of using locally available resources and human capital to build a brighter future, ultimately benefiting both the community and the nation.
The project, implemented in collaboration with the local NGO Rural Integrated Center for Community Empowerment (RICCE), traces its origins to a visit by Van Der Merwe to Liagbala the previous year. During his visit, the CEO, himself a farmer, engaged with the community about their agricultural activities, encouraging them to embrace farming more seriously. The community expressed their willingness to expand their farming efforts but highlighted their need for basic tools, seeds, and other support. Responding to their appeal, Van Der Merwe committed to providing assistance, leading to the current initiative. Following the CEO’s commitment, AML dispatched a team to assess the community’s preparedness. The Liagbala community presented a concept note and confirmed the availability of five acres of land dedicated to vegetable cultivation, demonstrating their commitment to the project.
The donated materials, encompassing a range of farming tools, seeds, and other necessary supplies, are intended to facilitate the cultivation of diverse vegetable crops. This project carries a dual purpose: enhancing food security within the community and generating income for the participating farmers. The concept of producing locally and consuming locally forms the backbone of this initiative, aligning with AML’s broader commitment to promoting sustainable development. By empowering the community to produce its own food, the project aims to reduce reliance on external sources while simultaneously boosting the local economy.
RICCE, the implementing partner, recognizes the transformative potential of this initiative. They see Van Der Merwe’s vision extending beyond mere farming to encompass local production, value addition, and even export, ultimately leading to year-round farming activities, increased job opportunities, and enhanced prosperity for Liagbala. This empowerment aims to provide the community with the tools and resources to shape their own future through sustainable agricultural practices. AML Community Development Manager Eric Swen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the partnership approach to sustainable development. While acknowledging the project’s seemingly small scale, he underscores the grand vision behind it. The availability of a ready market, including the AML canteen, provides a direct avenue for local farmers to sell their produce and generate income.
The residents of Liagbala have embraced the project with enthusiasm and gratitude, recognizing AML’s continued support and presence within their community. Local leaders, including the Yarmein Paramount Chief, expressed their appreciation for AML’s investment in agriculture, emphasizing its potential to drive community development and reduce dependence on external employment. The community has been urged to fully utilize the resources provided to maximize the project’s impact and realize its potential for long-term development. This initiative reflects AML’s broader commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development across its operational areas in Grand Bassa, Bong, and Nimba counties. By empowering local communities through initiatives like this, AML is contributing not only to economic development but also to social progress and self-reliance.
