The Liberian House of Representatives has issued a summons to three high-ranking government officials to address concerns surrounding the stalled Putu Iron Ore Mining deal in Grand Gedeh County. This follows a previous unsuccessful attempt to bring these officials before the House. The Minister of Mines and Energy, Wilmot Paye, the Chairman of the National Investment Commission, Jeff B. Blibo, and the Minister of Justice, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, are expected to appear before lawmakers on February 13, 2025, to provide much-needed clarity on the situation. This action comes as a direct response to the persistent efforts of Representative Jeremiah Garwo Sokan, Sr. of Grand Gedeh County, who has been advocating for economic revitalization in his district, severely impacted by the mine’s closure.
The crux of the matter lies in the uncertain status of the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) signed in 2010 between the Liberian government and the Putu Iron Ore Mining Company, a subsidiary of a Russian steel giant. While the company ceased operations in 2016, citing financial difficulties and operational challenges, the MDA remains technically in effect, creating a state of limbo that has hampered efforts to attract new investment or officially terminate the agreement. This protracted inaction has left Grand Gedeh County grappling with the economic fallout of the mine’s closure, including widespread job losses and a decline in local businesses.
Representative Sokan’s initial attempt to engage with the government officials in August 2024 proved futile, as they failed to appear before the House. He is now renewing his call for accountability and transparency, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions to address the economic hardship faced by his constituents. He seeks specific answers regarding the validity of the existing MDA, the government’s efforts to secure a new investor, and the measures taken to mitigate the impact of the mine’s closure on the local population.
The economic implications of Putu’s departure have been significant for Grand Gedeh County. Prior to the closure, the mining operation had contributed to infrastructure development, job creation, and human capacity building within the community. However, the sudden cessation of activities left hundreds unemployed, businesses struggling, and the local economy in disarray. The lack of alternative employment opportunities has forced many residents to seek alternative means of survival, further exacerbating the economic hardship.
The House of Representatives is demanding a comprehensive account of the government’s actions and plans regarding the Putu mining concession. They seek to understand the steps taken to attract new investors, the impact of the company’s departure on the county’s economy, and the support provided to former employees who lost their jobs. The lawmakers are also interested in knowing whether the government has engaged with international mining companies to potentially replace Putu and revitalize the mining sector in Grand Gedeh County.
Representative Sokan’s unwavering commitment to his constituents and his persistent pursuit of answers underscore the dire situation in Grand Gedeh County. He believes that the lack of action from the government has perpetuated the economic hardship faced by the people of Grand Gedeh and insists on holding those responsible accountable. His call for transparency and immediate action reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for sustainable solutions to revive the county’s economy and provide relief to its struggling residents. He is hopeful that the summoned officials will finally provide the answers and solutions needed to address this protracted crisis.
