Paragraph 1: Community Endorsement of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Extended Investment
The communities residing near ArcelorMittal Liberia’s operations in Nimba County have voiced their resolute backing for the company’s continued investment and the ratification of its third Mineral Development Agreement (MDA). These communities, including the Chiefs, Elders, and citizens of Yarmein and Seh Zor, issued a statement on March 18, 2025, highlighting the positive impacts of ArcelorMittal’s presence. They cited job creation, infrastructural development, support for health and education, promotion of local businesses, and contributions to national revenue as key reasons for their endorsement. This support underscores the perceived mutual benefits of the partnership between the company and its host communities.
Paragraph 2: Recognizing Past Performance and Addressing Challenges
The communities acknowledge ArcelorMittal Liberia’s steadfast presence, particularly during challenging periods such as the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, contrasting it with other companies that have come and gone. While recognizing that the current MDA has not been fully implemented in all aspects, they emphasize the fulfillment of all financial obligations. The communities pledge ongoing engagement with the company, government, and local authorities to address existing challenges and ensure future compliance with MDA provisions. They express satisfaction with the company’s willingness to acknowledge shortcomings and collaborate on solutions.
Paragraph 3: Economic Benefits and Future Prospects
The statement emphasizes the economic significance of ArcelorMittal Liberia as the largest private sector employer, providing direct jobs to over 3,000 Liberians and indirect employment to over 5,000 through subcontracting companies. The company’s support for local businesses further contributes to the economic viability of the communities. ArcelorMittal Liberia’s substantial contributions to national revenue through taxes, royalties, and other financial obligations are also highlighted, noting their impact on civil servant salaries and socio-economic development initiatives. The anticipated creation of over 5,000 additional jobs under the new MDA is seen as a significant opportunity for reducing unemployment.
Paragraph 4: Infrastructure Development and Community Recommendations
The communities express gratitude for ArcelorMittal’s investments in infrastructure, particularly the paving of the Ganta to Sanniquellie road, and advocate for its extension to Yekepa. Alongside their support, the communities present a series of recommendations to the Liberian government for inclusion in negotiations with the company. These recommendations encompass increasing the social development fund proportionally to ore mining activities, establishing a dedicated account for local development funds, prioritizing ArcelorMittal’s use of the railway, and operationalizing the Gbapa clinic. The communities also call for mobile clinics, agricultural projects, entrepreneurship support, and expanded vocational and technical training.
Paragraph 5: Environmental Protection, Employment, and Social Development
The recommendations further address environmental concerns, urging robust safeguards. The communities advocate for fair employment practices with preferential hiring from host communities, and emphasize the importance of supporting health and education programs, including local teachers, health workers, and students. They also request further infrastructure improvements from ArcelorMittal, such as water supply systems, school renovations, and support for housing and street development in local towns.
Paragraph 6: Collaborative Approach for Sustainable Development
The communities’ endorsement of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s extended investment and the proposed MDA signifies a collaborative approach involving local communities, the company, and the government. This partnership aims to achieve sustainable development that benefits all stakeholders. The specific recommendations put forth by the communities reflect their desire to ensure that the benefits of the company’s operations are maximized for local populations, addressing key areas such as employment, infrastructure, social services, and environmental protection. This collaborative framework is seen as a path towards long-term positive outcomes for all parties involved.
