Gbapa – Lawmakers representing Nimba County Districts Two and Three have concluded a day-long consultative meeting with residents of communities most affected by ArcelorMittal Liberia’s mining operations.
By D. Franklin Doloquee,[email protected]
Representatives Nya Garsaye Flomo (District Two) and Nehker E. Gaye (District Three) convened the meeting to gather input on the proposed extension of the company’s Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) and to assess the use of the 20 percent community benefit allotment derived from ArcelorMittal’s operations.
Participants raised concerns about unfulfilled company promises, inadequate use of development funds, and the lack of access to vocational training for local youth. They also cited poor road conditions and limited agricultural support as major challenges still facing the affected communities.
Citizens empowered the lawmakers to revisit and scrutinize the existing agreement with ArcelorMittal, urging them to push for accountability and ensure that the company’s financial contributions result in tangible improvements.
Representative Flomo emphasized that despite the company’s billion-dollar operations, many locals continue to live in poor conditions similar to those faced before the civil war during the LAMCO era. He called for improved job creation, skills training, and infrastructure development.
“This will be a disservice to your people if they cannot benefit from the billion-dollar mining company operating in their communities,” Flomo told reporters. “The arrival of ArcelorMittal Liberia has not yielded the same level of opportunities and empowerment that LAMCO once provided.”
Representative Gaye highlighted the importance of unity among lawmakers and community members in dealing with ArcelorMittal and addressing longstanding issues.
He said the meeting provided a platform for citizens to express their concerns directly, including frustrations stemming from a 2023 dispute over mountain ownership that prompted government intervention.
He noted that the company’s annual $1.5 million contribution to Nimba County includes a 20 percent share—approximately $420,000—specifically allocated for development in affected areas.
Gaye said the meeting helped lawmakers gather clear mandates from their constituents to advocate more effectively during negotiations and legislative discussions.
“This meeting was designed to gather the opinions of the citizens we represent,” he said. “It empowers us to speak with one voice on the critical national issues that affect our communities.”
Both lawmakers pledged to follow up with ArcelorMittal Liberia and relevant government agencies to ensure the fair and transparent use of community development funds and to press for the fulfillment of commitments made under the existing agreement.
