In April 2025, ArcelorMittal Liberia hosted a significant visit from high-ranking European Union diplomats, including H.E. Nona Deprez, Head of the EU Delegation to Liberia, and French Ambassador Isabelle Le Guellec. This visit aimed to showcase ArcelorMittal’s operations in Liberia, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainable development, local community engagement, and its contribution to the nation’s economic growth. The diplomats toured key facilities in Yekepa and Buchanan, gaining firsthand insights into the company’s substantial investments and its ongoing Phase II Expansion Project. This project, a testament to ArcelorMittal’s long-term vision for Liberia, promises to further bolster the nation’s infrastructure and create numerous job opportunities for Liberians.
The delegation’s itinerary included visits to the mining operations, the railway, and the port, showcasing ArcelorMittal’s efforts to modernize critical infrastructure. These investments extend beyond economic considerations, playing a crucial role in improving connectivity and facilitating trade within Liberia. The refurbishment and expansion of the railway, for instance, will not only support ArcelorMittal’s operations but also offer improved transportation options for local communities and businesses, contributing to broader economic development. The upgraded port facilities similarly stand to boost Liberia’s international trade capabilities, further solidifying the country’s position in the global market.
A key highlight of the visit was the tour of the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy. This institution embodies the company’s dedication to investing in human capital, providing young Liberians with world-class vocational training and equipping them with the skills necessary for successful careers. By empowering the local workforce, ArcelorMittal is contributing to Liberia’s long-term capacity building and fostering a generation of skilled professionals capable of driving future growth. The academy’s emphasis on practical skills development aligns with the country’s needs, addressing critical skills gaps and contributing to a more sustainable and diversified economy.
The ambassadors expressed their admiration for ArcelorMittal’s commitment to Liberia, particularly its resilience and continued investment despite facing challenges such as the Ebola crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Ambassador Deprez commended the company’s long-term vision and its significant investments in infrastructure, recognizing the potential for job creation and increased domestic revenue. Ambassador Le Guellec was impressed by ArcelorMittal’s unwavering engagement in Liberia since 2005, highlighting the company’s consistent support for local communities and its dedication to vocational training. Dimitri de Pues, Diplomatic Attaché at the EU Delegation, echoed these sentiments, commending ArcelorMittal for its steadfast presence in Liberia and its commitment to job creation and skills development, which benefits approximately 7,000 employees.
ArcelorMittal’s operations in Liberia are guided by a principle of creating shared value, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between the company and the communities in which it operates. This approach underscores the company’s belief in the power of partnerships and its commitment to contributing to the sustainable development of Liberia. The visit of the EU and French diplomats served as a platform to showcase these efforts and to reinforce the strong international collaboration that underpins ArcelorMittal’s work in Liberia. This collaborative spirit extends to the company’s engagement with local communities, the Liberian government, and international partners, fostering a shared vision for a prosperous future.
The visit underscores the multifaceted nature of ArcelorMittal’s contribution to Liberia, encompassing economic growth, infrastructure development, and human capital investment. The company’s long-term vision, its commitment to sustainable practices, and its active engagement with local communities position it as a key partner in Liberia’s journey towards sustainable development. By investing in infrastructure, creating jobs, and empowering the local workforce, ArcelorMittal is not only contributing to the country’s present economic prosperity but also laying the foundation for a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come. The company’s commitment to Liberia extends beyond its commercial interests, reflecting a deeper understanding of its role in fostering sustainable development and contributing to the well-being of the Liberian people.
