Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-03-27 09:43:39
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Head of Suitability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, recently provided valuable insights into the company’s contributions to the Government of Liberia and the communities it impacts during a presentation at a regional media symposium on the extractive industry. The symposium, organized by Africa Development Management Associates (ADMA) in collaboration with the Reporters Association of Liberia (RPAL), took place in Ganta City, Nimba County, and garnered significant interest among local journalists.
Wleh emphasized ArcelorMittal Liberia’s commitment to promoting good governance and transparency in its operations, dispelling negative public perceptions. He highlighted the company’s dedication to the safety and well-being of its staff, ensuring they return home to their families without harm. Additionally, ArcelorMittal Liberia has consistently fulfilled its financial obligations to the government, including taxes, fees, and royalties to host communities, amounting to a total contribution of US$414.6 million in taxes, royalties, and social development funds since its establishment in Liberia.
Moreover, the company has provided over 2,100 direct jobs and 5,300 indirect jobs for Liberians, along with disbursing US$19.6 million for resettlement compensations to local farmers and allocating US$2.5 million for international scholarships for deserving Liberians. Wleh also highlighted the transparent management of the County Social Development Fund in collaboration with county leadership, ensuring that funds directly benefit affected communities through various projects in Bong, Grand Bassa, and Nimba Counties.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s infrastructural development efforts aim to benefit the entire community, such as the investment in paving the Ganta-Yekepa Road. The company remains committed to long-term development in Liberia, as evidenced by its Phase 2 expansion project and the 3rd Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).
The Liberia Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (LEITI) recognized ArcelorMittal Liberia as the largest taxpayer in the extractive sector, as confirmed by their recent Multi-stakeholders Steering Group report. LEITI noted the company’s significant contributions, with ArcelorMittal Liberia alone contributing $78 million from July 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022, surpassing contributions from other companies like Bea Mountain Mining Company and Firestone Liberia Incorporated.
Overall, ArcelorMittal Liberia’s unwavering commitment to promoting good governance, transparency, and community development underscores its positive impact on Liberia’s economy and society. Through its contributions to the government, job creation, social programs, and infrastructural development, the company continues to play a vital role in the sustainable growth and development of Liberia.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
