The company says while the dedication earlier this month celebrated the completion of West Africa’s first iron ore concentrator, its true significance lies in AML’s sustained $2 billion Phase II expansion.
Yekepa, Nimba County – The recent commissioning of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s (AML) cutting-edge iron ore concentrator in Tokadeh marks a pivotal moment for Liberia, signaling a turning point toward industrial revitalization, job creation, and lasting economic growth.
The company says while the dedication earlier this month celebrated the completion of West Africa’s first iron ore concentrator, its true significance lies in AML’s sustained $2 billion Phase II expansion. This strategic investment is set to triple Liberia’s iron ore production to 20 million tonnes annually by the end of 2025, solidifying the nation’s position as a key player in the global market for high-grade magnetite concentrate.
The new concentrator transforms lower-grade hematite ore into a premium 66 percent iron content concentrate, significantly boosting Liberia’s export value and ensuring more value-added processing occurs within the country.
Infrastructure Upgrades Fueling Growth
The Phase II expansion extends beyond the concentrator, encompassing significant upgrades to Liberia’s critical infrastructure. In the Tokadeh mining hub, AML has installed new ore pits, a primary crusher, and an overland conveyor system. Essential facilities, including tailings storage, power supply, and process water systems, are now operational, adhering to international safety and environmental standards.
A major undertaking has been the complete overhaul of the 243-kilometer Yekepa-to-Buchanan railway. This extensive project involved installing over 440,000 new sleepers, improving track geometry, and adding new passing loops. To support ongoing operations, AML has acquired 16 locomotives and 700 wagons and constructed a new maintenance workshop in Buchanan.
At Buchanan Port, berth expansions, dredging, and a high-capacity automated shiploader now enable the loading of Panamax vessels at an impressive rate of up to 8,000 tonnes per hour. These improvements are complemented by upgraded material handling equipment and modern port control and safety systems.
Driving Job Creation and Skill Development
The expansion is already yielding substantial social and economic benefits. According to the company, more than 3,000 Liberians were directly employed during the construction phase, with thousands more benefiting from indirect jobs and local contracting opportunities. As operations scale up, the employment potential for Liberians across mining, logistics, and port services is expected to increase significantly.
AML is also heavily investing in technical training programs, empowering young Liberians with crucial mechanical, electrical, and operational skills. These initiatives align with the company’s commitment to developing a skilled national workforce capable of driving and sustaining industrial development.
Community Impact and National Development
Beyond employment, AML’s contributions extend to social infrastructure in host communities across Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa Counties, with investments in housing, healthcare facilities, education, and road networks. The company collaborates with local governments and development partners on projects aimed at improving living conditions, promoting education, and expanding healthcare access.
“As Liberia’s largest private taxpayer, AML’s expanded tax base and growing royalty contributions are expected to substantially enhance government revenues, allowing for greater public investment in national development priorities,” the company said.
Two Decades of Partnership, A Future of Prosperity
This year marks the 20th anniversary of AML’s Mineral Development Agreement with the Government of Liberia. From restarting post-war mining operations to now delivering high-grade processed ore, AML’s journey showcases resilience, commitment, and a strong partnership with the Liberian people.
With the first high-grade iron ore shipment from the new concentrator anticipated later this year, AML’s investment heralds a new chapter. This expansion is not merely a mining achievement; it represents a national industrial transformation offering hope, opportunity, and the promise of shared prosperity.
As Liberia reclaims its position on the global mining map, the impact of this sustained investment is evident in stronger infrastructure, rising incomes, improved livelihoods, and renewed investor confidence. The message is clear: Liberia is not just open for business—it’s ready to lead.
