Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Wilson
Published on 2024-04-10 06:11:02
ArcelorMittal Global, led by its Executive Chairman, Lakshmi Mittal, has pledged a substantial investment of US$1.4 billion to the Government of Liberia. This investment aims to establish an iron ore concentrator that will generate high-grade iron ore, ultimately increasing production to 15 million tons per annum. The commitment was made during a significant meeting with Liberia’s President Joseph N. Boakai on April 8, 2024, at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia.
Prior to this meeting, President Boakai welcomed Mr. Lakshmi Mittal, the Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal, at the Executive Mansion. This meeting marked the first interaction between Mr. Mittal and President Boakai since the latter’s inauguration. The discussions during the meeting primarily focused on ArcelorMittal’s operations in Liberia and President Boakai’s comprehensive agenda for the sustainable development of Liberia, termed as the Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism (ARREST) Agenda.
The meeting underlined the longstanding and productive relationship between Liberia and ArcelorMittal, dating back to the company’s entry into the country in 2005 post the civil war. Aligned with President Boakai’s vision of equipping Liberian youth with essential technical and operational skills, ArcelorMittal reaffirmed its commitment to investing in its Vocational and Technical Center (VTC) and extending support to other Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutes in Liberia.
By the year 2025, ArcelorMittal’s VTC aims to have 200 skilled youths enrolled in its training program, supplementing the 100 graduates who have already completed their training. Furthermore, the collaboration with various technical vocational training centers across Liberia is expected to enhance the talent pool in Liberia and drive socioeconomic progress in the country. The company also plans to continue offering scholarships to Liberian students pursuing higher education abroad, nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Recognizing the importance of combating the trafficking and consumption of illicit drugs for Liberia’s socio-economic development, ArcelorMittal has pledged to support government initiatives by investing in community programs that raise awareness about the risks associated with substance abuse, thereby safeguarding the livelihoods and well-being of Liberians.
As the largest investor and taxpayer in Liberia, ArcelorMittal remains dedicated to creating economic opportunities for the local population through job creation, support for local businesses, development of healthcare and education facilities, and participation in vital infrastructure projects such as the refurbishment of the Ganta-Yekepa Highway, a crucial economic link connecting neighboring countries Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire.
During the meeting, President Boakai expressed the government’s appreciation for ArcelorMittal’s commitment to Liberia and its people, emphasizing the importance of continuing the partnership for the country’s transformation. Mr. Mittal reiterated the company’s dedication to being a reliable and valued partner to Liberia, highlighting the upcoming project to expand their presence in the country as a significant contribution to Liberia’s economic growth and sustainable development.
In conclusion, ArcelorMittal’s substantial investment in Liberia signifies a strong commitment to the country’s development and underscores the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector to drive progress and prosperity for the people of Liberia. This partnership is poised to create long-lasting benefits for the country and its citizens, fostering economic growth and sustainable development in the years to come.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
